PETC Petco Animal Supplies

Makes Exclusive Deal With Leading Natural and Organic Pet Food Manufacturer SAN DIEGO, May 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- PETCO Animal Supplies, Inc. (NASDAQ:PETC) knows that healthy eating isn't just for humans anymore, which is why it is adding a new line of all-natural formulas to its assortment of high-quality premium pet products. Natural ULTRAMIX(R) Canine and Feline Formulas by Castor & Pollux Pet Works(R) offer a unique mix of all-natural ingredients for optimal nutrition and overall wellness. The new line extends PETCO's lead in recognizing the fast-growing consumer demand for natural, holistic and organic pet products, which are at the heart of the company's expanding "It's All Natural" offering. Pet lovers now have a choice of six new healthy formulas for dogs and cats, as well as two flavors of wholesome dog cookies -- all retailed exclusively through PETCO's 799 stores nationwide. Natural ULTRAMIX formulas contain no artificial preservatives, growth hormones, by-products or fillers. They offer a rich combination of six meat proteins, carbohydrates, fats and fiber in scientifically formulated diets designed to optimize the health and wellness of pets. Instead of artificial colors or flavors, the formulas include colorful and palatable mix of raw fruits and veggies, added after the food is cooked to maintain their nutrients. "Upon opening a bag of Natural ULTRAMIX, our customers are delighted to find that they can actually see the raw fruits and vegetables mixed throughout the bag. This makes Natural ULTRAMIX unique in comparison with any other premium pet food," said Rick Rockhill, Senior Buyer at PETCO. Natural pet foods are quickly becoming an integral part of a global trend fueling the fast-growing natural and organic food industry. PETCO is proud to be an active supporter of this innovative and promising market. "This trend is evident across the U.S. as more and more people are trying to eat and live healthier and are seeking to offer the same health benefits to their pets," said Dr. Tom Edling, DVM, MSpVM, Director of Veterinary Medicine at PETCO. "And there is a clear benefit in high-quality, natural and organic products, particularly versus non-premium pet food," he added. PETCO has played an active role in creating and serving the market for natural, holistic and organic pet foods, helping to drive the sector from non-existence in 2000 to approximately $400 million in 2004. The market's value will likely nearly double in the next two to three years, according to Rockhill. The Natural ULTRAMIX line is tailored to address specific dietary needs of dogs and cats in all stages of life, with carefully chosen active ingredients complementing the great nutritional value of the mix. "While people are making more natural and healthy food choices for themselves, Natural ULTRAMIX gives them the opportunity to make similar choices for their pets," said Castor & Pollux Co-Owner and "Top Dog" Shelley Gunton. In addition to Natural ULTRAMIX Adult Canine and Adult Feline Formulas -- rich with six meat proteins and other ingredients for optimum nutrition of active adult pets -- the line offers special diets for puppies and kittens, weight management formula for dogs, and a special mix for indoor cats. The ULTRAMIX Puppy and Kitten Formulas, for example, contain DHA, a fatty acid found in mother's milk, which helps the development of the brain and the nervous system. As with the adult formulas, the Puppy and Kitten Formulas contain essential proteins to aid growth of strong muscles and Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and lustrous coat. The Canine Weight Management and Adult Feline Indoor Formulas contain the same protein rich ingredients and wholesome raw fruits and veggies as the Adult Canine and Feline mixes, but they also include L-carnitine, a key ingredient to aid weight management. The Adult Indoor Feline Formula also provides natural fiber sources that aid the reduction of hairballs. The Natural ULTRAMIX Dog Cookies, offered in peanut butter and cheese flavors, are a delicious, all-natural treat option, with dried apples, cranberries and carrots. About PETCO PETCO is a leading specialty retailer of premium pet food, supplies and services with a commitment to quality animal care and education. PETCO's strategy is to offer its customers a complete assortment of pet-related products and services at competitive prices, with superior levels of customer service at convenient locations, by hiring pet lovers and training them to become counselors to our pet-loving customers. PETCO operates approximately 800 neighborhood stores in 49 states and the District of Columbia, as well as a leading destination for on-line pet food and supplies at http://www.petco.com/. The PETCO Foundation, PETCO's non-profit organization, has raised about $30 million since its inception in 1999. More than 3,500 non-profit grassroots animal welfare organizations from around the nation receive Foundation support. Through the PETCO Foundation, PETCO endeavors to be a community leader in promoting the welfare of companion animals and celebrating the human-animal bond. About Castor & Pollux Pet Works Portland, Oregon-based Castor & Pollux Pet Works(R) is the first pet products company to present a full line of branded, premium natural pet products ranging from organic pet food and treats to all natural pet supplies and accessories. A commitment to community service through their Pet & Soul Foundation also supports organizations that work with pets and people for the benefit of both, including Guide Dogs for the Blind, Project Pooch and numerous other deserving animal support groups. Visit us at http://www.castorpolluxpet.com/. DATASOURCE: PETCO Animal Supplies, Inc. CONTACT: Marta Karpinska-Dean of PETCO, +1-858-453-7845, Ext. 2926, ; or Lindsay Buchele of Castor & Pollux, +1-503-223-2168, Web site: http://www.castorpolluxpet.com/ Web site: http://www.petco.com/

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