STAMFORD, CONN. — Canidae will become the official pet nutrition partner of several hockey venues across the United States, following its partnership with the Oak View Group (OVG)’s Arena Alliance. The invitation-only group helps sports venues maximize sponsorships and will now help Canidae further its mission of goodness for pets, people and the planet.
Canidae will be the official pet food provider for several “team dogs,” including Bolt of the Tampa Bay Lightning at Amalie Arena, Smash of the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena, Celly with the Minnesota Wild at Xcel Energy Center, and Monte of the New York Islanders at UBS Arena.
Additionally, the company plans to announce another partnership with the Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena in the future.
"When you think about hockey, you think about passion and commitment, the same attributes that we bring to everything that we do here at Canidae," said Bret Furio, chief executive officer of Canidae. "Like OVG, NHL hockey fans, and pet parents everywhere, Canidae is dedicated to the people, pets, and the planet we love, so this was a partnership that we'd long dreamed about, and we're thrilled to make it happen."
Canidae will become the presenting sponsor of Monte, who is the official “Puppy with a Purpose” of the New York Islanders. As another part of the sponsorship, Smash and Celly will train to become Accredited Therapy Dogs. Monte is already training to become a professional service dog for blind or visually impaired people, and Bolt of the Tampa Bay Lightning is a certified Canine Good Citizen.
The sponsorship deal includes signage at each arena, giveaways during games, on-ice and community events, and team dog appearances with the company.
"We're delighted to welcome an innovative company like Canidae to our arena alliance and believe this strategic partnership will not only bring both Canidae and fans who are pet owners long-term value but also create a true point of differentiation for the Canidae brand," added Daniel Griffis, president of global partnerships at Oak View Group. "We love that Canidae is synonymous with Goodness, and we are confident that this partnership will inspire sports fans to pursue Goodness in their own lives."
Additionally, Canidae will partner with each participating team for the National Hockey League (NHL)’s “Go Green” month, which aims to build awareness and support education on environmental issues. Canidae stated this partnership will reinforce its ongoing sustainability efforts, which include regenerative farming, reducing energy emissions, and offering sustainable formulations and packaging options.
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