WHISTLER-BLACKCOMB, British Columbia (Dec. 9, 2009) - Before the torch relay arrives in Whistler-Blackcomb, Canada early next year for the 2010 Winter Games, the Purina Incredible Dog Challenge will invite some of the world's most athletic canines to Canada for some winter games of their own.

The Purina Incredible Dog Challenge, typically a summer sport, will kick off its 13th season on Jan. 8 - 9, 2010, in the cold temperatures of western Canada, giving fans an opportunity to see some of their favorite events like Agility, head-to-head 60-weave Pole Racing and Freestyle Flying Disc in a completely different way - on the snow.

Given its unique location, the Challenge will also incorporate additional events to highlight the venue, including Avalanche Rescue, Skijoring and a fun-filled Paw-and-Pole exhibition. All events are free to the public.

"We are thrilled to have Whistler host our doggie winter games," said Jim Allen, Manager, Experiential Marketing of Nestlé Purina PetCare. "These entertaining canines are athletes competing in events they love to do. It truly showcases the bond people have with their four-legged friend. It's the kind of bond Purina wants to foster, embrace and highlight for people to see."

Tourists and local residents that have dogs that are in good physical condition are invited to participate in two of the events: the Paw-and-Pole exhibition/competition and Skijoring.

The Paw-and-Pole exhibition is an opportunity to go cross-country skiing with your four-legged companion. Awards will be distributed to the fastest small and large dogs, a "Best Costume" award and a "Look-alike" contest determining which owner most resembles their dog. Proceeds from Paw-and-Pole will go to support the Canadian Avalanche Rescue Dog Association. Registration for the Paw-and-Pole event will begin on Saturday, Jan. 9 at 9:30 a.m. PST.

In addition, an open qualifier for the Skijoring competition will take place on Friday, Jan. 8, beginning at 10 a.m. PST where two local dogs and their trainers will qualify to compete on Saturday, Jan. 9, beginning at 9:30 a.m. PST.

The Purina Incredible Dog Challenge, recognized as one of the most premier canine sporting events in the United States, will feature various breeds and sizes of dogs from multiple nations in peak physical condition and will demonstrate that any dog can achieve their "incredible" potential if given proper training, good nutrition and lots of love.

The Avalanche Rescue event will take place at the top of the Whistler Village Gondola, while all other events will be held at the Whistler Golf Club. More details on the Winter Purina Incredible Dog Challenge, including a complete schedule of activities and location, can be found at http://www.petcentric.com/.

As with its summertime events, the Winter Purina Incredible Dog Challenge will serve as a qualifier for the national finals held each year at Purina Farms in St. Louis in October 2010. The competition will also taped to broadcast nationally in the United States and Canada in late winter giving its American and Canadian fans an additional chance to follow their favorite competitors.

About Nestlé Purina Pet Care

Nestlé Purina PetCare promotes responsible pet care, community involvement and the positive bond between people and their pets. A premiere global manufacturer of pet products, Nestlé Purina PetCare is part of Swiss-based Nestlé S.A., the world's largest food company.