Champion Petfoods, producers of pet food brands ORIJEN and ACANA, has initiated a grant to the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada, into the study of pet food nutrition.
The five-year grant will support the ongoing study of pet nutrition for the health of pets, as well as training students in preparation for roles within the pet food and nutrition industry.
Dr. Anna Kate Shoveller, an associate professor in the university’s Department of Animal Biosciences, was named the inaugural Champion Petfoods Chair in Canine and Feline Nutrition.
“Diet is part of a complex environment that helps determine a pet’s well-being, and the research we can pursue with Champion’s support will help us learn more about nutrition and the ways it interacts with other factors,” said Dr. Shoveller.
The Canadian university ranks first in the world for the quality of its agricultural program and fifth for the quality of its veterinary science program – both which inform the pet food industry.
Blaine McPeak, CEO of Champion Petfoods, said the grant will help improve the lives of all pets.
“Our purpose at Champion is to earn pet lovers’ trust every day so pets thrive for a lifetime. Dedicated original research into pet nutrition is a foundational element that makes that possible. Our collaboration with the University of Guelph and Dr. Shoveller will help ensure that one of the world’s leading research teams has the resources to advance this vital work for the betterment of pets everywhere.”