St. Louis CITY SC will become the first Major League Soccer team to employ a certified facility dog as an official team pet, following a partnership with pet food manufacturer Purina and local nonprofit CHAMP Assistance Dogs.
The facility dog will provide wellbeing support across the CITY SC organization, from first-team players to academy teams and front office staff. The dog will also participate in community outreach events and interact with fans during matches at Energizer Park.
Seven dogs are currently undergoing evaluation for the position through CHAMP Assistance Dogs, a St. Louis-based nonprofit that trains assistance animals. The selection process considers temperament, assistance skills development and adaptability to loud, crowded sports environments.
"Since announcing our partnership with CITY SC, we've envisioned a world where we work together to redefine the role of pets in sport," said Andrea Faccio, president and chief growth officer at Purina. "Since then, we've taken amazing strides toward our shared ambition to make CITY SC the most pet-friendly sports club in the world. Assisting CITY to welcome a team pet that's certified as a facility dog will deliver something tangible and authentic to the soccer club, CITY fans and to our community as a whole. We're firm believers in the power of pets, and there may be no greater illustration of that positive impact than through a program like this."
The dog selection process is being documented in a four-part online series called TEAM PET, narrated by former MLS MVP Taylor Twellman. The series debuts on CITY SC's YouTube channel and social media platforms.
All seven dogs in consideration will receive certification as therapy, service or facility dogs upon completion of training. Each will be assigned roles serving the greater St. Louis community, with one designated as the official CITY SC team pet.
"A lot of factors go into identifying the 'right' dog for a job like this – a combination of genetics, socialization and training – and it's important for us to put the CITY team pet in a position to be successful and enjoy this work," said Dr. Annie Valuska, pet behavior scientist at Purina. "Each of the dogs in consideration is confident, focused and attentive. It's been inspiring to see them in their training, and to watch the club's interactions with the dogs. That's what pet companionship is all about."
Research shows certified facility dogs can help reduce stress and anxiety, decrease feelings of loneliness and depression, and lower blood pressure. The team pet will join players during training and recovery sessions, participate in matchday activities, and work with front office personnel.
"A Major League Soccer season is long and can be grueling for our players, both on and off the pitch," said St. Louis CITY SC sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel. "We are extremely fortunate to have a partner like Purina who is willing to support us – and our fans – in new and innovative ways. It's going to be a lot of fun for all of us having the team pet around and we are eager to welcome the dog to the CITY SC family."
Beyond the soccer club, the team pet will participate in community outreach through school visits, hospital visits and nonprofit events. The dog will also engage with supporters during matches and club charitable activities.
"St. Louis has an unmatched charitable spirit and a desire to take care of each other," said Ken Earley, director of community relations at St. Louis CITY SC. "Welcoming a team pet with the help of Purina is a tremendous asset that will enhance our club's ability to continue to be an exceptional club and neighbor and make a positive impact across our region."
Purina serves as CITY SC's first founding partner and official kit sponsor. The pet food company is headquartered in St. Louis, where CITY SC plays at the 22,500-seat Energizer Park.
According to Petfood Industry's Top Pet Food Companies, Nestlé Purina PetCare was founded in 1894 and produces pet food, treats and litter for dogs and cats. The company manufactures brands including Purina ONE, Pro Plan, Friskies and Tidy Cats. Purina employs more than 11,000 associates in the U.S. and operates with a team of nearly 500 scientists, veterinarians and pet care specialists. The company said its products feed 46 million dogs and 68 million cats annually.
