FRANKLIN, Tenn. (December 20, 2007) — Happy holidays to the nation's nearly 45 million dog owners, most of whom will invite their canine companions to participate in the family's holiday festivities. In fact, more than half of all dog owners will give gifts to their canine companions this holiday season, and as many as 60 percent of dog owners will invite their pets to join the table at the family dinner.

According to Chad Conway, pet lifestyle expert and co-owner of Canine Styles™, a posh pet boutique and spa in New York City, the trend in treating pets as family has fueled the popularity of gifting high-end items and experiences for pets that you might traditionally give to other loved ones. "From sweaters to chef-inspired gourmet meals, food and fashion are the two items on every dog's wish-list this season," says Conway. "These special gifts give dogs similar indulgences their human family members enjoy, as well as allow them to get involved in the festivities alongside everyone else." Conway's must-have pet presents this season include:

• Gourmet Meals Make the Best Treats. Edible treats may be great occasional rewards, but the best gift is the everyday indulgence of a gourmet meal that's as authentic as your favorite entree. Conway recommends the new CESAR® Canine Cuisine Gourmet Filets™ in Sauce meals for their authentic aroma, look and taste of demi-glazed, slow-cooked "steak-cut" meats. The line is available in six irresistible flavors, including Beef Tenderloin, Prime Rib, New York Strip, Filet Mignon, Braised Chicken and Garden Vegetables, and Roasted Turkey for a gourmet dining experience we all appreciate. The 3.5-ounce trays are even the perfect size for stockings. (Suggested retail price: $0.79 for a single tray. Also available in convenient variety packs.)
• Hot Canine Fashions for the Cold. Even in cold weather, dogs are dressed to impress in this season's luxury textures and coordinated looks. One of Conway's favorites is the Canine Styles™ Puffer Coat, a down-filled jacket that keeps dogs stylishly warm and fashionable. There's also the Heathered Cashmere Collection Sweaters and matching pom-pon cap, which are made with 100-percent cashmere and available in burgundy or oatmeal colors. A matching cashmere blanket is also available to keep your small dog warm while nestled in a pet carrier (Suggested retail price: sweater-$150; cap-$50; blanket-$150).

And while food and fashion top his gift-giving lists, Conway also recommends these unique pet presents to consider:

• Toys that Bark Back. Now your dog can go Christmas caroling with the family thanks to the Holiday Singing Dog Toy. This plush chew toy barks "We Wish You a Merry Christmas" when squeezed—or chewed—in the right place. Also available as a croaking frog or a quacking duck. (Available for $15 at www.caninestyles.com)
• Sleep in Style. Direct from Paris, the Ines de la Fressange canine bed is a gift always in vogue. Designed by a former model for one of Europe's couture houses, this luxurious, circular-shaped bed features a plush, velvet-cushioned mattress and soft, rounded edges for ultra comfort. Available in small and large sizes as well as two sophisticated color combinations: pink with red accents and beige with red accents. (Suggested retail price: $190-$200.)

For more holiday gift ideas, visit www.cesar.com.

About CESAR® Canine Cuisine

CESAR® Canine Cuisine is a highly palatable and premium-priced gourmet food for small dogs. CESAR® Canine Cuisine is available in two textures and in a variety of gourmet flavors that cater to the sophisticated tastes of smaller dog breeds.

About Mars Petcare US

Mars Petcare U.S. is the U.S. pet care operations of Mars, Incorporated, one of the world's leading food manufacturers. Headquartered in Franklin, TN, Mars Petcare U.S. employs more than 3,000 associates in the United States, with 29 facilities nationwide and owns some of the world's favorite pet care brands, including PEDIGREE® Brand Food for Dogs, CESAR® Canine Cuisine, WHISKAS® Brand Food for Cats, SHEBA® Brand Food for Cats and The GOODLIFE Recipe™ Brand. In addition, Mars, Incorporated owns the portfolio of brands produced by ROYAL CANIN USA Inc., NUTRO Products, Inc. and GREENIES® Brand.