Puppy's day out

MANILA, Philippines – Pooch-lovers recently gathered at the Pavilion of the SM Mall of Asia to treat their beloved furry friends to a day of exciting puppy pampering and play at the Alpo Puppy Festival.

Hosted by TV personality Tessa Prieto-Valdes, the highly-successful event attracted 24 participants of varying dog breeds ranging from Shih Tzus, Chihuahuas, Mini Pinschers, Boston Terriers, Pomeranians, Mini Schnauzers, and a Pug. Together with their loving owners, the dogs took part in an exciting lineup of activities that included the Alpo Puppy summer makeover, which gave dog owners the chance to have their dogs expertly groomed.

There was also a free checkup courtesy of veterinarians from the Carveldon Veterinary Center and Animal Care Specialists Vet Clinic. Complementing these activities was a lecture by Jojo Isorena, a canine trainer and dog specialist from the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), who gave an insightful talk on engaging topics like choosing the right dog for one’s lifestyle, basic puppy training and proper feeding. 

Gracing the event were Nestlé executives led by Sandra Puno, SVP and communications director; Ruth Novales, AVP and head of marketing, promotions and events department (MPED); Maria Angela Operaña, Alpo consumer marketing manager; Eileen Bangcoro, MPED cluster head for coffee, pet care, Nestlé Professionals, confectionery and food; and Jay Janobas, marketing and promotions specialist. Joining them were SM Mall of Asia AVP for operations Steven Tan and marketing head Cecille Ang as well as celebrities Nadine Samonte and Joanne Quintas.

Now in its sixth year, the Alpo Puppy Festival also served to launch the all-new Alpo 2in1 Puppy, the latest product innovation from Alpo that offers pups delicious food variety as it can be prepared either wet or dry. 

Alpo 2in1 Puppy is infused with mouthwatering meat juices. Serve Alpo 2in1 dry, for a delicious crunchy meal or simply add room temperature water and stir for 30 seconds to release the gravy for a delicious and juicy meal. What’s more, Alpo 2in1 Puppy has a milky kibble that offers all the health-giving goodness of milk’s essential nutrients, giving puppies the best start in life.

The highlight of the affair was a puppy fashion show with a twist — as puppies walked down the runway wearing costumes made from Alpo 2in1 Puppy packaging. One winning puppy was chosen for each category: Top Puppy Model, Puppy Fashionista, Posh Puppy, and Puppy-genic. 

The Top Puppy Model was won by Nanan, a Pug owned by Harold Beatrizola. Harold and Nanan received P10,000 cash, a trophy and a special dog tag.

Taking the Puppy Fashionista award was Spoon, a Dachshund owned by Christian while the Posh Puppy title went to Surie, a Shih Tzu owned by Dave Sanchez. Finally, the Puppy-genic award went to Obama, a Mini Pinscher owned by Alexandra de la Cruz. Each received P3,000 cash and a special dog tag.