EDMONTON, ALBERTA, CANADA — To ring in the holiday season, Champion Petfoods has donated more than 420,000 meals through its ORIJEN and ACANA pet food brands to 28 animal rescue organizations across North America.

One recipient of these donations is Second Chance Animal Rescue Society (SCARS), a long-term partner of Champion who has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. The organization announced in November it would be unable to take in any more animals due to financial constraints and operational costs.

"We've been overwhelmed since the start of the pandemic, and our main concern was having to turn animals away," said Terra MacLean, training coordinator at SCARS. "This donation could not have come at a better time. We'll be able to take in dogs and cats that need our help again, pay veterinary bills, and feed them proper meals. The animals in our care will be eating well this holiday season!"

Blain McPeak, chief executive officer of Champion Petfoods, added, "The impact of the pandemic continues to affect people and communities in profound ways, including an increasing need for dogs and cats to be cared for before they are adopted into loving homes. The important work of pet rescues aligns perfectly with our purpose at Champion, which is to earn pet lover trust every day so pets thrive for a lifetime. We commend the volunteers at these organizations who work tirelessly to ensure pets in need are taken care of no matter the circumstance."

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