FRANKLIN, TENN. — Natural pet food brand Nutro™, part of the Mars family of brands, is inviting dogs and pup parents to its Farmers Market for Dogs. The market — with the purpose of raising awareness of the importance of soil health — will be held at the park in the heart of The Grove in Los Angeles on Saturday, Sept. 14 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

According to the company, guests can expect numerous treats, toys and pet-safe food and experiences, all featured at “snout-level” to engage dogs touch and sight. The event is held in partnership with actor and advocate Ian Somerhalder and his dog, Sequoia.

“As a pet parent, I know we all strive to give our dogs the very best, especially with the food they eat. Healthy soil practices ensure the future of food for humans and pets, and what better way to highlight this than through a community driven format like a farmers market?” Somerhalder said. “Sequoia will undoubtedly place herself right next to the pet-safe produce and treat stations. As for me, it's an honor to work alongside Nutro again to continue sparking a conversation about two of my greatest loves: dogs and the planet.”

The main purpose of the market is to raise awareness about the vital importance of soil health and its impact on food, for both people and pets, as many people don’t realize that some of the ingredients in pet food are grown in soil just like their own. 

Due to rapidly degrading soil, the future of grown food isn’t guaranteed — according to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, 90% of the Earth’s soil could be degraded by 2050. According to Nutro, this is why it spreading awareness on the issue as it believes pet parents can be a powerful force for change.  

“The Nutro brand is giving dogs the experience they deserve by offering the joys of a traditional farmers market — time out in the sun, fresh produce, unmissable activities and connecting with the community — but with a heartwarming and tail wagging spin,” said Colten Kidwell, vice president of marketing at Mars Petcare. “In addition to a day of fun, we hope to raise continued awareness amongst pet parents of the importance of protecting healthy soil for the future of food.”

Read more about sustainability efforts across the pet food and treat industry.