Pet Valu, Inc. (“Pet Valu U.S.”), a specialty retailer of pet food and supplies in the United States, today announced plans to commence a wind down of its operations due to severe impact from COVID-19. The Company expects that all of its 358 stores and warehouses in the Northeastern and Midwestern U.S., as well as its corporate office in Wayne, PA, will close by the end of the wind-down process.
Pet Valu U.S. licenses its name and contracts for certain services from Pet Valu Canada, which is a separate company based in Markham, Ontario that is not impacted by this wind down. Pet Valu Canada is a market leading, highly profitable and growing business with a tremendous history and a very bright future. Pet Valu Canada will continue to serve customers across Canada through its approximately 600 stores, franchise locations and e-commerce site at www.petvalu.com/ca/, offering its usual assortment of thousands of pet products and supplies and in-store services such as dog washes and grooming.
All Pet Valu stores in the U.S. are currently open and ready to serve their devoted pet lover customers through the wind-down process. Customers in the U.S. can continue to use Pet Valu gift cards and loyalty rewards for purchases. Effective immediately, U.S. customers will no longer be able to place orders on the Pet Valu U.S. e-commerce site at www.petvalu.com/us/.
Jamie Gould, Pet Valu, Inc.’s recently appointed Chief Restructuring Officer, said, “The Pet Valu U.S. team is proud to have met the needs of our devoted pet lover customers in the U.S. for more than 25 years. However, the Company’s stores have been significantly impacted by the protracted COVID-19-related restrictions. After a thorough review of all available alternatives, we made the difficult but necessary decision to commence this orderly wind down.”
He continued, “During the store closing process, we will continue to provide our customers with the same great in-store experience, offering them even better deals and value. We will work to assist our dedicated associates through the transition. We thank all of them for their commitment to our company and our customers, and especially for going above and beyond so we could help customers as an essential service during the pandemic.”
Pet Valu U.S. expects to commence store closing sales at all locations in the U.S. in the coming days. The Company will continue to take necessary precautions to keep its stores safe for customers and employees.
The Company has retained Malfitano Partners as its restructuring advisor, SB360 Capital Partners, LLC to assist with store closing sales and A&G Realty Partners, LLC to assist on U.S. real estate-related matters. Mr. Gould joins Pet Valu, Inc. from a successful career of retail restructuring in global assignments in the apparel, eyewear and office products industries. William Transier, Chief Executive Officer of Transier Advisors, has been appointed as independent director to the Board of Directors of Pet Valu, Inc.
The following is a press release from AMC Networks:
AMC Networks today announced it has teamed up with Adopt-a-Pet.com, North America’s largest non-profit pet adoption website, for AMC’s annual horror marathon FearFest, to raise awareness for pet adoption with ‘FurFest.’ All month long, AMC, AMC+, and Shudder are encouraging viewers to support Adopt-a-Pet.com’s mission to end the overpopulation of companion animals in shelters and help pets find loving forever homes through custom, PET-tacular spots airing across linear, digital, and social channels.
The custom spots, featuring a few four-legged horror fans, encourage viewers to find their perfect watch buddies through adoptions and especially raise awareness for black cat and black dog adoptions this spooky season. Halloween may be the season for magical black cats, but in reality, they are most often left behind in shelters because of the color of their fur. Many animal welfare organizations call this “black cat syndrome,” with the phenomenon happening with black dogs as well. Through the collaboration, audiences are encouraged and inspired to help fight “black cat syndrome” by adopting these furry friends or by donating to Adopt-a-Pet.com. See the custom spot:
“We all know that spooky season is best enjoyed with a buddy by your side, which is why we’re thrilled to join forces with Adopt-a-Pet.com to help viewers find their perfect four-legged watch companions,” said Linda Schupack, President of Marketing, AMC Networks Entertainment Group. “The movies on AMC’s FearFest and Shudder are already scary enough. How great to cuddle up with a lovely black cat or black dog for Halloween and beyond.”
“Teaming up with AMC Networks is an exciting and unique way to spread the word about pet adoption,” said Dana Puglisi, Chief Marketing Officer of Adopt-a-Pet.com. “We appreciate AMC and Shudder’s efforts to help get more pets into loving homes. And we love all the extra snuggles those newly adopted pets will receive while their people binge through the FearFest thrills!”
Now in its 24th consecutive year, AMC’s annual horror marathon FearFest brings the frights with an entire month of genre programming from iconic franchises like Halloween and Insidious, and the return of award-winning docuseries Eli Roth’s History of Horror. Shudder, dubbed “the ultimate in streaming horror” by Newsweek, offers the best selection of original and classic horror, thriller and supernatural films and series, uncut and commercial free. Both are also now available as part of the new AMC+, a premium streaming bundle featuring only the good stuff, which also includes IFC Midnight’s best genre cinema from independent, foreign and documentary films. In addition to the largest slate of classic horror movies such as Friday the 13th and Halloween, AMC+ also includes all series within The Walking Dead Universe, as well as AMC’s Eli Roth’s History of Horror, and new Shudder programming, such as Joe Bob’s Halloween Hideaway Special and A Creepshow Animated Special, and much more.
Known for its groundbreaking and celebrated original content, AMC Networks is the company behind the award-winning brands AMC, BBC AMERICA, IFC, SundanceTV, WE tv, and IFC Films. Its diverse line-up of popular and critically-acclaimed series and independent films include Killing Eve, Better Call Saul and The Walking Dead, which has been the #1 show on ad-supported cable television for ten consecutive years, as well as Portlandia, Brockmire, Love After Lockup, and the films Boyhood, Death of Stalin, and many more. Its original series Mad Men and Breaking Bad are widely recognized as being among the most influential and acclaimed shows in the history of TV. The Company also operates AMC Studios, its production business; AMC Networks International, its international programming business; the subscription streaming services Acorn TV, Shudder, Sundance Now, and UMC; and Levity Entertainment Group, the Company’s production services and comedy venues business. For more information, visit http://www.amcnetworks.com.
About Shudder
AMC Networks’ Shudder is a premium streaming video service, super-serving members with the best selection in genre entertainment, covering horror, thrillers and the supernatural. Shudder’s expanding library of film, TV series, and originals is available on most streaming devices in the US, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Germany, Australia and New Zealand. For a 7-day, risk-free trial, visit www.shudder.com.
About Adopt-a-Pet.com
Adopt-a-Pet.com is North America’s largest non-profit pet adoption website, helping over 19,000 animal shelters, humane societies, SPCAs, pet rescue groups, and pet adoption agencies advertise their purebred and mixed breed pets for free to millions of adopters each month. Sponsored by companies including Purina, Chewy, and Elanco Animal Health LLC, Adopt-a-Pet.com helps homeless dogs, cats, and even rabbits and other animals go from alone to adopted.
“That Animal Rescue Show” (Photo by Danny Matson/CBS Interactive, Inc.)
The following is a press release from CBS All Access:
CBS All Access, ViacomCBS’ digital subscription video on-demand and live streaming service, today revealed the official trailer and key art for its upcoming original docuseries “That Animal Rescue Show.” Executive produced by five-time Academy Award®-nominated filmmaker Richard Linklater and two-time Academy Award winner Bill Guttentag, all 10 episodes will be available to binge exclusively for CBS All Access subscribers on Thursday, October 29, 2020.
“That Animal Rescue Show” follows the animal rescue community in and around Austin, Texas, where Linklater lives. The 10-episode docuseries provides a window into this captivating world through moving, humorous and powerful stories of animals, the humans who love them and the inspiring, life-changing bond that occurs between people who have dedicated their lives to rescue and the animals who rescue them right back.
“That Animal Rescue Show” is produced by CBS Television Studios in association with Dr. Phil’s Stage 29, Linklater’s Detour Filmproduction, and Guttentag and Nayeema Raza’s 1891 Productions. The series is distributed internationally by ViacomCBS Global Distribution Group. An episode of the series was accepted as part of the official selection for the 2020 Telluride Film Festival. In addition to Linklater, Guttentag and Raza, the series is also executive produced by Phil McGraw, Jay McGraw and Julia Eisenman.
“That Animal Rescue Show” joins CBS All Access’ growing slate of original series that currently includes “The Good Fight,” “The Twilight Zone,” “Tooning Out the News,” “No Activity,” “Why Women Kill,” “Interrogation,” “The Thomas John Experience” and “Tell Me a Story,” as well as the upcoming limited event series “The Stand,” “The Man Who Fell to Earth,” “The Harper House” and “Guilty Party.” CBS All Access is also the exclusive domestic home to “Star Trek: Discovery,” “Star Trek: Picard,” the animated series “Star Trek: Lower Decks” and the U.S.S Enterprise set series “Star Trek: Strange New Worlds.”
About CBS All Access:
CBS All Accessis ViacomCBS’ direct-to-consumer digital subscription video on-demand and live streaming service. CBS All Access gives subscribers the ability to watch more than 20,000 episodes and movies on demand – including exclusive original series, current and past seasons of hit shows from the CBS Television Network and growing libraries from brands across the ViacomCBS portfolio including BET, Comedy Central, MTV, Nickelodeon, Smithsonian and more, as well as a wealth of films from Paramount Pictures. The service is also the streaming home to unmatched sports programming, including every CBS Sports event, from golf to football to basketball and more, plus exclusive streaming rights for major sports properties, including some of the world’s biggest and most popular soccer leagues. CBS All Accessalso enables subscribers to stream local CBS stations live across the U.S. in addition to the ability to stream ViacomCBS Digital’s other live channels: CBSN for 24/7 news, CBS Sports HQ for sports news and analysis, and ET Live for entertainment coverage.
The service is currently available across all major device platforms including online, mobile and connected TV and OTT platforms and services. Versions of CBS All Accesshave launched internationally in Canada and Australia (10 All Access), with unique but similar content and pricing plans. For more details on CBS All Access, please visit https://www.cbs.com/all-access.
About CBS Television Studios:
CBS Television Studios is one of the industry’s leading suppliers of programming with more than 70 series currently in production across broadcast and cable networks, streaming services and other emerging platforms. The Studio’s expansive portfolio spans a diverse slate of commercially successful and critically acclaimed scripted programming, genre-defining franchises including the ever-growing “Star Trek” universe, award-winning late night and daytime talk shows, and an extensive library of iconic intellectual property.
EDITOR’S NOTE: CBS All Access will rebrand as Paramount+, which goes into effect in early 2021.
HBO Max’s heartwarming unscripted series The Dog House: UK is moving up its premiere date to Thursday, July 23, 2020.
Finding forever homes for rejected dogs isn’t easy – but that’s exactly what the staff of Wood Green do every day. Set inside a rural British animal rescue center known for its commitment to matching homeless dogs with eager owners, The Dog House: UK captures the joy and complexity of the human-dog “dating” experience. Each of the first season’s eight episodes introduces tearful tales of abandoned dogs, while also touching on relatable backstories of families, couples, and singletons all hoping their lives will be changed by a new four-legged friend. It’s up to the center’s dedicated staff to match pet with potential new owner – and to arrange an all-important first date that will determine if the adorable pups and hopeful humans have that fated connection. The show was originally produced by Five Mile Films for Channel 4 in the UK for distribution by all3media International.
HBO Max, the upcoming direct-to-consumer offering from WarnerMedia set to launch in the spring of 2020, announced today the greenlight of Hot Dog (working title), from Jax Media and Making It’s Nicolle Yaron. The twelve-episode, half-hour series features three dog groomers facing off in a full head-to-tail creative competition showcasing canine breeds of all kinds.
Inspired by the social platforms and coffee table book from celebrity dog grooming expert Jess Rona, each episode will include imaginative challenges and out of the box themes meant to spotlight the best looks for man’s best friend. Featuring comedic commentary from celebrity guests and a host, Rona will lead the judging panel with the Best in Show winner walking away with a cash prize and first place rosette.
Jess Rona built a following online with her signature slo-motion blow dry videos and serves as the dog grooming artist to many celebrity dogs. In addition to grooming, she is the author of Groomed, the director of Tegan and Sarah’s Closer video, and has appeared on Drunk History and New Girl.
“Jess Rona has made a name for herself as dog groomer-to-the stars and it is so fun to be able to bring her incredibly successful online brand and business to life in this way, ” said Jennifer O’Connell, executive vice president of original non-fiction and kids programming for HBO Max. “Expect pure escapism that the whole family can watch together and root for their favorite pooch with the most fabulous and creative trans-fur-mations.”
Hot Dog is a comedy competition series from JAX Media as they continue to expand their slate into the unscripted space.
“We are very excited to work with Nicolle, Jess and HBO Max on this very important project. There’s no better time to watch a dog get a bath than now,” says JAX Media’s partners Tony Hernandez, Lilly Burns, Brooke Posch and John Skidmore.
The series will be executive produced by Jax Media’s Tony Hernandez, Brooke Posch and Séamus Murphy-Mitchell along with Making It’s Nicolle Yaron and Jess Rona. Abi McCarthy has been tapped as showrunner.
“Haute Dog” (Photo by John P. Johnson/HBO Max)
September 16, 2020 UPDATE:
“Haute Dog,” HBO Max’s head-to-tail dog grooming creative competition series showcasing canine breeds of all kinds is launching with its first six episodes on Thursday, September 24, 2020. Emmy nominee Robin Thede (“A Black Lady Sketch Show”) is joining celebrity dog groomer Jess Rona to judge the imaginative challenges and out of the box themes meant to spotlight the best looks for man’s best friend. These doggy makeover wizards compete to turn the K-9s into K-10s. Matt Rogers (“Las Culturistas”) serves as the show’s host.
The most adorable competition series ever created, each episode features three dog groomers facing off over two rounds. Rogers provides comedic commentary as Rona leads the judging panel with her extensive knowledge of breeds and proper grooming techniques, with Thede serving as “haute” expert evaluating the outrageous and jaw-dropping transformations. The judges determine who wins Best in Show, with the lucky groomer walking away with $10,000 and a first place rosette. Rona’s coffee table book Groomed and social platforms, including her signature slo-motion blow dry videos, inspired the series.
Jax Media completed production of the series over four weeks this summer in Simi Valley following full union guidelines and COVID protocols, with zero positive results from cast, crew and producers. Tests were conducted regularly across four weeks of production from load in to strike.
About HBO Max
HBO Max is WarnerMedia’s direct-to-consumer offering debuting in spring 2020. With 10,000 hours of curated premium content anticipated at launch, HBO Max will offer powerhouse programming for everyone in the home, bringing together HBO, a robust slate of new original series, key third-party licensed programs and movies, and fan favorites from Warner Media’s rich library including Warner Bros., New Line, DC, CNN, TNT, TBS, truTV, Turner Classic Movies, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Crunchyroll, Rooster Teeth, Looney Tunes and more. Sign up for updates at HBOMax.com.
About WarnerMedia
WarnerMedia is a leading media and entertainment company that creates and distributes premium and popular content from a diverse array of talented storytellers and journalists to global audiences through its consumer brands including: HBO, HBO Now, HBO Max, Warner Bros., TNT, TBS, truTV, CNN, DC, New Line, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Turner Classic Movies and others. WarnerMedia is part of AT&T Inc. (NYSE:T).
About JAX MEDIA
Founded in 2011, JAX Media is a television and film production juggernaut run by Partners Tony Hernandez, Lilly Burns, John Skidmore and Brooke Posch with offices in New York, Los Angeles and London. Jax Media has created a production model that allows talent to maintain control of their content and the results have been answered with awards and critical acclaim. As a company, they provide comprehensive production from development through post with a highly experience in-house production team who expertly implements the unique Jax Media model that has proven itself time and time again as a success for studios, networks and creatives alike. Jax Media currently has 11 shows in production and was nominated for 18 Emmy Awards for the 2018-2019 TV season alone
Bono, the Havanese winner of Best in Show at the 2019 Beverly Hills Dog Show Presented by Purina (Photo by Nicole Weingart/NBCUniversal)
The following is a press release from NBC:
Due to post production delays, the 2020 “Beverly Hills Dog Show Presented by Purina,” which was taped Feb. 29 and scheduled to air April 5 on NBC, will now air at a later date to be announced.*
In its original April 5 timeslot, (12:30-2:30 p.m. ET / 9:30-11:30 a.m. PT), NBC will broadcast the 2019 Beverly Hills Dog Show, featuring Best in Show winner Bono.
Last year, a 3-year-old Havanese named Bono was crowned Best in Show. The little canine from the Toy group is the most-winning Havanese in the breed’s history with over 90 Best in Show titles. Previous Beverly Hills Dog Show winners include 2018’s King, a Wire Fox Terrier, and 2017’s Ripcord, a Doberman Pinscher.
In celebration of man’s best friend and with the glamour only Beverly Hills can provide, the star-studded competition is co-hosted by award-winning TV personality, author and Broadway actor John O’Hurley and American Kennel Club-licensed judge and expert analyst David Frei.
Hosted by the Kennel Club of Beverly Hills and produced by NBC Sports, “The Beverly Hills Dog Show Presented by Purina” is a new breed of dog show and must-see viewing for the whole family. Before more than 1,500 dogs representing 200 eligible breeds and varieties face off for the coveted Best in Show title, the canine competitors will mingle with celebrity guests and strut their stuff on the red carpet. For the main event, each group winner will walk the show’s unique runway for the Best in Show judge to determine which dog has what it takes to be champion.
“We all love our dogs, of course,” Frei said. “We invite fans to celebrate these four-legged stars with us at the Beverly Hills Dog Show where they can cheer their favorites. After it’s over, hug your own dog and remind them they’re always Best in Show.”
This year’s dog-loving celebrity guests include Lauren Ash, Brian Baumgartner, Reece Caddell, Jade Catta-Preta, Olivia Culpo, Ester Dean, Bo Derek, Doug the Pug, Parveen Kaur, MJ Javid & Tommy Feight, Nastia Liukin, Greg Louganis, Ariana Madix, Justine Marino, Caitlin McGee, Miss America 2020 Camille Schrier and Jocko Sims.
Two newly AKC-sanctioned breeds will compete to be top dog this year. The Barbet (sporting group) is a water dog from France with a long, sweeping tail, a dense coat of curly hair and a distinctive beard. He’s an agile athlete with a bright, friendly nature. The Dogo Argentino (working group) is a strong and intelligent hunting dog from Argentina, originally bred to hunt big game such as boar and mountain lion. He has a short white coat and expressive face.
ABOUT JOHN O’HURLEY
Award-winning television personality, author and Broadway star John O’Hurley is host of “The Beverly Hills Dog Show Present by Purina” and “The National Dog Show Presented by Purina” on NBC. Dubbed one of People magazine’s “Sexiest Men Alive,” he is best known as J. Peterman on “Seinfeld,” for which he received a Screen Actors Guild Award. He was also the ultimate champion of the first “Dancing with the Stars” television show. He has authored three books – “Before the Dog Can Eat Your Homework First You Have to Do It: Life Lessons From a Wise Old Dog to a Young Boy” (Hudson Street Press, 2007), the New York Times bestseller “It’s Okay to Miss the Bed on the First Jump” (Plume, 2007) and his latest book for children, “The Perfect Dog” (Grosset & Dunlap, 2013), which since its release has inspired “The Perfect Dog,” a musical designed for children’s theatre. The musical production is licensed by Theatrical Rights Worldwide as part of its Theatre for Young Audiences catalogue. He is currently starring in his own one-man show, “A Man with Standards,” a humorous and poignant take on his life and experiences in show business.
ABOUT DAVID FREI
America’s foremost authority on all things canine, David Frei is a natural choice to serve as host and expert analyst for “The National Dog Show Presented by Purina” and “The Beverly Hills Dog Show Presented by Purina” on NBC. An American Kennel Club (AKC)-licensed judge who has officiated dog shows all over the world, Frei hosted television coverage of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show for 27 years. A successful former breeder/handler/owner, he is proudest of the work his therapy dogs have done at the Ronald McDonald House of New York, the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and the New York VA Hospital, among other health-related institutions. Frei’s first book, “The Angel by My Side” (Hay House Publishing, 2002, with Mike Lingenfelter), claimed two Dog Writers Association of America (DWAA) Awards. His latest book, “Angel on a Leash” (BowTie Press, 2011), also a DWAA award winner, tells of his years of experience and work with therapy dogs. Frei was inducted into the Dog Writers Association of America Hall of Fame in 2018.
ABOUT MARIA MENOUNOS
Emmy Award-winning journalist, TV personality, motivational speaker, New York Times bestselling author, host of the Noovie cinema pre-show and co-founder/CEO of the AfterBuzz TV Streaming Networks, Maria Menounos has gained numerous achievements throughout her career in the news and entertainment industry. One of People magazine’s 50 Most Beautiful, Menounos holds the distinct honor of having conducted the only sit-down interview with the Obama family, an interview ABC News heralded as a deciding factor in President Obama’s historic victory. Currently, Menounos hosts the Noovie cinema pre-show seen daily in 70% of America’s movie theaters, and her weekly podcast, “Conversations with Maria Menounos,” introduces listeners to stars, newsmakers and successful women in engaging conversations on their journeys, advice and passions. As one of the only female CEO’s in the tech world, Menounos heads the AfterBuzz TV digital broadcast streaming network, which produces more than 150 hours of weekly programming for over 120 countries worldwide. Menounos’ AfterBuzz TV mentorship program has helped launch careers for the likes of Fox TV’s Eboni K. Williams, WWE Superstars Sonia Deville and Cathy Kelly, Netflix’s Koramo Brown, “Entertainment Tonight’s” Courtney Tezeno and Deirdre Behar, and hundreds of others.
ABOUT MARY CARILLO
Mary Carillo is a former professional tennis player who has earned awards and accolades for her work as a television analyst and has become a fixture at the Olympic Games for more than two decades as a reporter, analyst and host. Carillo has received two coveted Peabody Awards, one for her work on the HBO documentary “Billie Jean King: Portrait of a Pioneer” and the other for co-writing, with Frank Deford, the HBO documentary “Dare to Compete: The Struggle of Women in Sport.” She was inducted into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame in 2018. Carillo was also named best commentator by both Tennis magazine and World Tennis magazine and broadcaster of the year by the WTA. She has co-written two books — “Tennis My Way,” with Martina Navratilova, and Rick Elstein’s “Tennis Kinetics.” Carillo played on the professional tennis tour from 1977-80. Teaming with childhood friend John McEnroe, she won the 1977 French Open mixed doubles title. In 1977 she was a doubles quarterfinalist at the U.S. Open and a doubles runner-up at the U.S. Clay Court Championships.
ABOUT AKBAR GBAJABIAMILA
Akbar Gbajabiamila is host of NBC’s three-time Emmy Award-nominated hit competition series “American Ninja Warrior,” which begins its 12th season this summer. He is also the host of “American Ninja Warrior Juniors” on the Universal Kids Network. Gbajabiamila is a former NFL star who currently hosts one of NFL Network’s highest-rated shows, “NFL Fantasy Live.” He has made headlines being parodied on “Saturday Night Live” by Drake, as well as hailed in the media as a hero for chasing down a hit-and-run suspect who sideswiped a Los Angeles motorcycle cop. Gbajabiamila made his acting debut on NBC’s “The Night Shift,” as well as hosted NBC’s 2017 “Red Nose Day Special” and “Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular.”
ABOUT PURINA
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 Nestlé S.A., a global leader in nutrition, health and wellness. Subscribe here to get the latest Purina news.
*April 28, 2020 UPDATE:
· NBC will air the 2020 “Beverly Hills Dog Show Presented by Purina” on Sunday, May 17 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT). The special, which was taped on Feb. 29, was previously postponed due to post-production delays.
· In celebration of man’s best friend and with the glamour only Beverly Hills can provide, the star-studded competition is co-hosted by award-winning TV personality, author and Broadway actor John O’Hurley and American Kennel Club-licensed judge and expert analyst David Frei. Mary Carillo, Akbar Gbajabiamila and Maria Menounos serve as contributors, and this year’s dog-loving celebrity guests include Lauren Ash, Brian Baumgartner, Reece Caddell, Jade Catta-Preta, Olivia Culpo, Ester Dean, Bo Derek, Doug the Pug, Parveen Kaur, MJ Javid & Tommy Feight, Nastia Liukin, Greg Louganis, Ariana Madix, Justine Marino, Caitlin McGee, Miss America 2020 Camille Schrier and Jocko Sims.
· Leading up to the May 17 broadcast, NBC Sports Network (NBCSN) will present “The Dog Days of Spring” primetime marathon from May 4 – May 7 (7 p.m.-3 a.m. ET) and May 8 – May 9 (8 p.m-3 a.m. ET) featuring past competitions of “The Beverly Hills Dog Show Presented by Purina,” “The National Dog Show Presented by Purina” and “Incredible Dog Challenge.”
· Last year, a 3-year-old Havanese named Bono was crowned the 2019 Best in Show. The little canine from the Toy group is the most-winning Havanese in the breed’s history with over 90 Best in Show titles. Previous Beverly Hills Dog Show winners include 2018’s King, a Wire Fox Terrier, and 2017’s Ripcord, a Doberman Pinscher. On April 5, NBC aired a re-broadcast of the 2019 Beverly Hills Dog Show, which was the second highest rated sports program of the weekend across all networks and was watched by an average of over 1.2M viewers.
· Hosted by the Kennel Club of Beverly Hills and produced by NBC Sports, “The Beverly Hills Dog Show Presented by Purina” is a new breed of dog show and must-see viewing for the whole family. Before more than 1,500 dogs representing 200 eligible breeds and varieties face off for the coveted Best in Show title, the canine competitors will mingle with celebrity guests and strut their stuff on the red carpet. For the main event, each group winner will walk the show’s unique runway for the Best in Show judge to determine which dog has what it takes to be champion.
Rebecca Romijn, Gabby Douglas and Rodney Peete at the 2020 American Rescue Dog Show at Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California, on January 19, 2020. (Photo by Amanda Edwards/Getty Images)
The following is a press release from Hallmark Channel:
Hallmark Channel’s “2020 American Rescue Dog Show” presented by the Pedigree brand returns for its third year with a two-night event Sunday, February 16, and Monday, February 17 (8 p.m. ET/PT). The only canine competition of its kind, the special focuses the spotlight on various breeds adopted from shelters and rescue organizations across the country vying for top dog in the world’s most adorable categories. The “2020 American Rescue Dog Show” is hosted by Rebecca Romijn and Rodney Peete, who are joined by co-hosts Ross Mathews and Larissa Wohl as they cover all the four-legged action ringside and backstage. This year’s celebrity judges are pet rescue advocates Gabby Douglas, Kevin Frazier, Jennie Garth, Sandra Lee Rand Melissa Peterman.
The “2020 American Rescue Dog Show” will once again highlight the heartfelt traits and benefits of mixed breeds and rescued purebreds, including Beagles, Great Danes, Pugs, West Highland White Terriers and many more. Coming from extensive experience in the dog world, returning ring judges David Alexander, Lisa Arturo, Jennifer Gray and Terry Simons use their pooch prowess to crown a winner in each of the 10 categories: Belly Rubs, Couch Potato, Ears, Senior, Snoring, Special Needs, Talking, Underbite, Wiggling and Wrinkles. The winner from each group will face off in the finals where the panel of celebrity judges will be tasked with deciding which precious pup will go home with the title of Best in Rescue.
In addition to the competition in the ring, this year’s show features special video packages educating viewers about the availability of puppies in shelters, the issue of bonded pairs in need of loving homes and the rewards of adopting one of these doggie duos, as well as firsthand stories from adopters who share how rescuing a dog has enriched their lives. The special will shine a light on the important work of The Beagle Freedom Project, with a powerful segment on the organization’s dedication to rescuing and rehabilitating animals used in testing and research. The Grey Muzzle Organization is also highlighted with the television debut of their Public Service Announcement in which four comedy legends – Carol Burnett, Bob Newhart, Lily Tomlin and Carl Reiner – share their thoughts on growing older and why it’s so rewarding for people to adopt senior dogs in need of homes. Additionally, the show will pay tribute to rescues with a segment devoted to all those on the front lines who work hard every single day to save and improve the lives of dogs everywhere.
Last year’s Best in Rescue, Howard the Dog, returns with his parents Walter and Alex for a visit with Ross Mathews backstage. They are joined by Cynthia Rigney, Board President of the San Gabriel Valley Humane Society, who shares with viewers how the grant money the shelter received from the show has helped them help the many homeless pets in their community.
The Mission of the “2020 American Rescue Dog Show” is to celebrate rescue dogs in a unique competition spotlighting the adorable, quirky and even hilarious traits that make dogs perfect in the eyes of those who love them. The goal of the show is to shine a light on these incredible pets and inspire viewers to adopt their next dog from a local shelter or rescue organization. Whether already in homes or waiting to be adopted, these dogs are all heart and full of personality.
As the presenting sponsor, the Pedigree brand is closely aligned to the show’s mission. The Pedigree brand has worked tirelessly to help support the transformation of shelter dogs into pets with loving, forever homes by donating good food for the cause, and millions of dollars through Pedigree Foundation to shelters and rescues across the country. To that end, Pedigree Foundation will provide a total of $100,000 in grants to the winners’ shelters or rescues.
Serving as the show’s official mascot is the network’s own rescued and adopted pet, Happy the Dog. In addition to starring in movies and specials, Happy the Dog is a certified therapy dog and emotional support animal.
“2020 American Rescue Dog Show” is produced by Michael Levitt Productions. Executive Producers Michael Levitt and Jennifer Schulz are both animal advocates and rescuers whose lives are dedicated to increasing awareness of pet adoption. Levitt, an accomplished TV producer, and Schulz, a communications professional for pet brands and organizations, joined forces to create a show that is both entertaining and heart-warming. Their goal is to celebrate rescue dogs with the hope of inspiring Hallmark Channel viewers to adopt their next pet.
Throughout the show, Adopt-a-Pet.com will be showcased as a great resource for viewers to find a furry friend of their own.
About the Pedigree Brand
The Pedigree Brand is the number one brand of dog food and treats in the world, feeding more dogs than any other brand. The Pedigree Brand offers a wide variety of products and formats for dogs at every life stage. The Pedigree Brand is built on an unwavering love for all dogs and a commitment to dog adoption. For more information, please visit www.Pedigree.com.
About Pedigree Foundation
We believe every dog deserves a loving, forever home Pedigree Foundation is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization working to help end pet homelessness. Nearly 3.5 million dogs end up in shelters and rescues every year, and nearly half never find a home. The foundation was established in 2008 by Mars Petcare, maker of Pedigree) food for dogs, to help increase dog adoption rates. We’ve awarded more than 5,500 grants and $8 million to U.S. shelters and rescues that help dogs in need. At Pedigree Foundation, we’re working toward a day when all dogs are safe, secure, cared for, fed well and loved. See how you can help: www.PedigreeFoundation.org.
About Hallmark Channel’s Adoption Ever After
Working in collaboration with the country’s leading animal rescue and welfare organizations, activists, distribution and advertising partners and celebrity influencers, Hallmark Channel’s Adoption Ever After aims to dismantle common misconceptions about shelter animals, provide resources, inspire the public to adopt, and ultimately create a future where every pet has a loving home. The initiative shines a spotlight on the countless lovable pets in our nation’s shelters through annual on-air programming specials like Kitten Bowl, Hero Dog Awards and The American Rescue Dog Show, as well as strategic partnerships, consumer marketing campaigns, public service announcements and grassroots efforts.
“Well Groomed” is a documentary that explores the exuberant world of competitive dog grooming and follows the lives of dog owners who are challenging the definition of art.
The film offers a rare look into the lives of dog owners who are dedicated to transforming their poodles into living sculptures. It delves deep into an all-consuming subculture of America where the motivation to win drives them into devoting their lives to the competition.
The documentary follows a group of determined dog groomers who are driven to succeed while facing a series of challenges in each of their personal and professional lives over the course of a year. It will also offer a peek into their limited-time outside the ring, where they groom other people’s dogs, care for own pets and test out new designs on their show dogs.
“Well Groomed” is from Cattle Rat Productions in association with Spacestation; directed and written by Rebecca Stern; produced by Rebecca Stern, Justin Levy and Matthew C. Mills, executive produced by Chris Vivion, Annie Roney, Sue Turley; co-executive produced by Meryl Goldsmith; cinematography, Alexander W. Lewis; edited by Katharina Stroh; original music by Dan Deacon. For HBO, executive producers, Bill Simmons and Peter Nelson.
Premiere: December 17, 2019, at 9 p.m. ET on HBO, HBO Go and HBO Now. Available on HBO on Demand on December 18, 2019.
Here are excerpts of some reviews of “Well Groomed”:
The Hollywood Reporter: “With its benign view of the world it captures, ‘Well Groomed’ asks us to laugh along with the cheerful women on camera. Its non-intrusive approach leaves the door open, just a crack, for anyone ready to laugh at people who turn their dogs into turkeys and chickens.”
The Playlist:“Remarkably, the element that heightens the film’s enjoyability is its pure-hearted nature. Even at its darkest moments, ‘Well Groomed’ never lingers too long on sorrow to knock the movie off-course. Moreover, while the subject matter of creative grooming encompasses enough oddball characteristics to float on its own, the documentary wisely opts to focus on the personalities of the groomers.”
POV Magazine: “A boon for any dog lover or someone just wanting to learn about this subculture, ‘Well Groomed’ is a slight yet generally satisfying look into this odd topic. Larger questions about the exploitation of the animals, the obsessions of the individuals for their pets at the expense of people, etc. are left aside for a gentle film about an intense but agreeable competition.”
Pictured from left to right: Frank DePaulo, Kennel Club of Philadelphia Show Chairman; Charlotte Patterson, Best In Show Judge; Wayne Ferguson, Kennel Club of Philadelphia President; Eduardo Paris, Handler; 2019 National Dog Show Best In Show winner, Bulldog named Thor; Corey Benedict, Northeastern Area Manager for the Purina Professional Engagement Team; Ann Viklund, Director of Conformation for the Purina Professional Engagement Team. (Photo by Bill McCay/NBC)
The 2019 National Dog Show, which NBC airs on Thanksgiving Day, announced a bulldog named Thor as the Best in Show winner. John O’Hurley and David Frei hosted the show. NBC will have an encore presentation of the show on November 29 at 8 p.m. ET/PT.
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: (l-r) Eduardo Paris, Handler; 2019 National Dog Show Best In Show Winner, Bulldog named “Thor” — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: 2019 National Dog Show Best In Show Winner, Bulldog named “Thor” — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: 2019 National Dog Show Best In Show Winner, Bulldog named “Thor” — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: (l-r) 2019 National Dog Show Best In Show Winner, Bulldog named “Thor”; Eduardo Paris, Handler — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: (l-r) Mary Carillo; 2019 National Dog Show Non-Sporting Group Winner and Best In Show, Bulldog named “Thor”; Eduardo Paris, Handler — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Azawakh — (Photo by: Nancy Schwartz/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Miniature American Shepherd — (Photo by: Nancy Schwartz/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Doberman Pinscher — (Photo by: Nancy Schwartz/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Standard Poodle — (Photo by: Nancy Schwartz/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: (l-r) David Frei, Havanese, John O’Hurley — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: 2019 National Dog Show Herding Group Winner, Old English Sheepdog named ?Sophia? — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: (l-r) Eduardo Paris, Handler; 2019 National Dog Show Non-Sporting Group Winner and Best In Show, Bulldog named “Thor”– (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: 2019 National Dog Show Sporting Group Winner, Golden Retriever named “Daniel” — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: 2019 National Dog Show Working Group Winner, Siberian Husky named “Nick” — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: 2019 National Dog Show Non-Sporting Group Winner and Best In Show, Bulldog named “Thor” — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: 2019 National Dog Show Toy Group Winner, Havanese named “Bono” — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: 2019 National Dog Show Terrier Group Winner, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier named “Blaine” — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: 2019 National Dog Show Hound Group Winner, Pharaoh Hound named “Maddie” — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Dalmation — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Weimaraner — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Irish Setter — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Komondor — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Neopolitan Mastiff — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: 15-inch Beagle — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Azawahk — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Dandie Dinmont Terrier — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: West Highland Terrier — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Old English Sheepdog — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Australian Shepherd — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: German Shepherd — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Brussels Griffon — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Shih Tzu — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Toy Poodle — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Flying disc performer — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Flying Disc Performer — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Great Dane — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: (l-r) Longhaired Dachshund, John O’Hurley — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Afghan Hound — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: (l-r) Mary Carillo, Russel Terriers, Samantha Cummons of the Valley Forge Tourism and Convention Board — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA 2019 — Pictured: Pembroke Welsh Corgi — (Photo by: Bill McCay/NBC)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA — Pictured: (l-r) John O’Hurley, Australian Terrier, Bernese Mountain Dog, Azawakh, Mary Carillo, Whippet “Whiskey” Best In Show 2018 Winner, Irish Setter, David Frei, Dachshund — (Photo by: Simon Bruty/Carson International Inc.)
THE NATIONAL DOG SHOW PRESENTED BY PURINA — Pictured: (l-r) John O’Hurley, Australian Terrier, Bernese Mountain Dog, Azawakh, Whippet “Whiskey” Best In Show 2018 Winner, Mary Carillo, Irish Setter, David Frei, Dachshund — (Photo by: Simon Bruty/Carson International Inc.)
Dan Schachner (pictured at left) and Kit Hoover (pictured at right) (Photos courtesy of Animal Planet)
The following is a press release from Animal Planet:
Animal Planet’s live weekly animal adoption series “Give a Dog a Home Live!,” is gearing up for the holiday season with a special two-hour primetime edition of “Give a Dog a Home Live!” Animal advocate and host of “Access Hollywood” and “Access Daily” Kit Hoover will join Puppy Bowl referee and host Dan Schachner on a live adventure across the US to meet animals up for adoption, and those dedicated to finding them their forever home. Rescue dogs and cats from Wallis Annenberg PetSpace, as well as animals from numerous Best Friends Animal Society locations (New York, Atlanta and Salt Lake City), will be featured as audiences will be able to interact on social media and find out more information on how to adopt them. The two-hour special will air live from the Wallis Annenberg PetSpace, a state-of-the-art pet adoption center, in Los Angeles, CA on Saturday, December 7 at 5PM PT/8PM ET.
“Give a Dog a Home Live!” will share the inspirational stories of three families that are in search of a furry friend to complete their family. They will have the chance of a lifetime to meet and bond with pups live on air, but which pooch will be the perfect fit? Viewers will have the opportunity to help one family choose between three special needs pups to take home by voting on social media for which dog they think they should adopt. One lucky rescue dog will receive a complete mutt makeover by a professional groomer and have a full photoshoot fit for Instagram in preparation of finding a fur-ever home. With dozens of potential adopters on site at Wallis Annenberg PetSpace and an audience full of millions more, anything can happen!
Pet owners are often told they are a spitting image of their four-legged companions. Fans are encouraged to post a photo with their mini-me using #dogpelganger on Instagram, Twitter and Animal Planet’s Facebook page as well as post and share their viewing parties with the #GiveADogAHome hashtag for a chance to see it on TV!
The two-hour special is produced for Animal Planet by Discovery Studios. Sandy Varo Jarrell, Cindy Kain and Robert Lifton are Executive Producers. For Animal Planet, Dawn Sinsel is Executive Producer with Pat Dempsey as Supervising Producer.
