Underwood helping out homeless dogs

NASHVILLE, Feb. 15 (UPI) -- U.S. country music star Carrie Underwood is helping bring attention to Pedigree's sixth annual dog adoption drive, organizers said.

The program focuses on helping homeless dogs through a variety of efforts that help generate awareness, food and funding.

"I can't imagine life without my dog, Ace," Underwood said in a statement. "I've had a passion for animals my entire life. They're such sweet and gentle souls that love you just because you love them back. That's why I'm really excited about the opportunity to partner with the Pedigree Adoption Drive to help get other people involved in this important cause."

"At Pedigree Brand, everything we do is for the love of dogs, and we are very proud that we've been able to donate millions of dollars over the past six years to support dogs in need," said John Anton of Pedigree Brand, Mars Petcare U.S., the makers of Pedigree Food for Dogs. "Our effort this year is particularly exciting because in addition to funds, our goal is to try and help feed as many homeless dogs as possible. For people that share our passion for this cause, helping couldn't be easier -- simply become a fan and help a dog at www.facebook.com/pedigree."