Zynga Inc., a global leader in interactive entertainment, is collaborating with UK pet charity Blue Cross to launch a new in-game event in FarmVille 2: Country Escape.

The Pet Pals event tasks players with caring for their guinea pigs by unlocking tasty nibbles to feed and level up their fluffy friends. Players can earn nibbles by completing different tasks and challenges on their farm, including crafting, foraging and obtaining keys.

Not only will farmers unlock exciting in-game rewards as they hit feeding milestones, but each nibble fed to guinea pigs in the Pet Pals event will collectively contribute towards Zynga’s goal of making a Blue Cross donation in real life.

Players will work together to power-up a global progress bar, and if the donation goal is met, a donation will be made by Zynga to Blue Cross and used to fund pet welfare initiatives including veterinary care, rehoming and pet food banks.

“FarmVille 2: Country Escape has always been about community, compassion and a deep love for animals” said Ratheesh Mallaya, General Manager, FarmVille 2: Country Escape. “Farmers aren't afraid of rolling up their sleeves for a worthy cause, and this event proves once again that we're always stronger together. By bringing that determination to the Pet Pals event, the player community can help Zynga work towards its goal of making a real-world difference for animals in need, one nibble at a time.”

Mary Haisman, Head of Corporate Partnerships at Blue Cross said: “We are delighted to team up with Zynga for this Pet Pals event. We hope that gamers enjoy playing with the knowledge they are working towards helping real life small pets in the care of Blue Cross.”

FarmVille 2: Country Escape is available now and is free to download on iOS and Android devices.