Philanthropy is a core element of many pet food companies’ missions, fueling their desire to give back. While each company has its own cause close to heart, they all aim to make a meaningful impact on both pets and people.
Petcurean donates millions of meals to animals in need
Petcurean, a company driven by a mission to support the health and well-being of pets, recently donated 250,000 meals to rescues, shelters and community groups across Canada, and nearly 200,000 meals to rescue groups and pet food banks in Manitoba.
“As proud pet parents and animal lovers, we believe that it is our responsibility to support animals in times of need,” said Christine Mallier, sustainability and community relations manager for Petcurean. “And as a company, we are passionate about giving back purposefully to the communities we serve through donations and partnerships with organizations who share our commitment to pet health.”
As pet lovers and animal advocates, Petcurean believes in giving back purposefully. Over the past 25 years, the company has donated over 9.2 million meals, assisting more than 2,600 animal rescues and shelters worldwide.
Petcurean donated about 200,000 meals to help aid the dog overpopulation crisis in Manitoba. Courtesy Petcurean
In response to the dog overpopulation crisis in Manitoba, Petcurean’s donation of 194,000 meals provided critical relief.
“Forty-five animal welfare organizations signed and released a statement declaring a state of emergency, highlighting how the situation has become a public health emergency,” said Mailler. “The root causes of the overpopulation crisis were stated as limited access to veterinary clinics for spaying and neutering dogs, and a lack of bylaws to prevent backyard breeding and puppy mills.”
The company is also committed to supporting the welfare of pets through advocacy, partnerships and suitability initiatives. Looking ahead, Petcurean plans to expand its support to other regions, including helping animals impacted by Hurricane Helene in the U.S.
PEDIGREE Foundation supports animal rescue during natural disasters
Since 2019, PEDIGREE Foundation has partnered closely with American Humane’s Rescue Team, providing vital resources during natural disasters such as hurricanes and wildfires. Initially starting with small grants, this partnership evolved over the years, with PEDIGREE Foundation significantly its support in 2023 and 2024. This funding has allowed the Rescue Team to expand its efforts, especially during the hurricanes Helene and Milton, helping to rescue and shelter over 525 animals across Georgia, North Carolina and Florida.
American Humane First to Serve trucks are stocked with supplies and ready to help those in need. Courtesy American Humane
PEDIGREE Foundation’s commitment to disaster relief reflects its belief in proactive preparation. With American Humane’s infrastructure in place, six rescue units strategically placed around the country, the organization can respond to emergencies within 24 hours, providing critical supplies such a food, water, crates and leashes.
“These rescue units include specially equipped rescue vehicles, boats and American Humane’s flagship 82-foot Rescue Rig, which is all fully outfitted with lifesaving emergency supplies for every condition,” the company said. “The Rescue Rig is even furnished with a mobile operating theater and state-of-the-art command center enabling vital communication and coordination during major disasters.”
Following Hurricane Helene, American Humane’s Rescue Team visited 190 facilities across 14 counties in Georgia and distributed over 4,100 pounds of dog food and 1,400 pounds of cat food, along with other necessary supplies. It also supported communities in North Carolina and Florida as the hurricanes caused widespread devastation.
PEDIGREE Foundation’s support ensures that American Humane is prepared to respond immediately, helping save countless animals and offering hope to communities.
“We are so grateful for PEDIGREE Foundation and its ongoing support of our lifesaving rescue program,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, American Humane president and CEO. “We could not do this critical work without the contributions of organizations like PEDIGREE Foundation.”
Alphia helps reduce pet hunger
In honor of Pet Hunger Awareness Day, Alphia, a leading pet food manufacturer, has pledged to match donations up to $40,000 to PetSmart Charities. This initiative aligns with Alphia’s commitment to providing pets with high-quality food and promoting longer, healthier lives for them.
“At Alphia, pets are the heart of our family,” said Dave McLain, CEO and president of Alphia. “Our mission reflects this devotion: To feed more pets every day. Our team’s passion for pets drives our dedication to reducing pet hunger wherever possible and ensuring that all pets have access to the nutrition they need.”
The company’s dedication to pet welfare continues to inspire and welcome future partnerships with organizations that share its values.
Aimee Gilbreath, right, president, PetSmart Charities, and David McLain, CEO & president, Alphia, support a special pet food distribution at Food Bank for New York City at the Community Kitchen of West Harlem on Pet Hunger Awareness Day, Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2024. Courtesy Diane Bondareff of PetSmart Charities via AP Content Services
RAWZ Natural Pet Foods supports service dogs and communities
RAWZ Natural Pet Foods recently donated $50,000 to National Service Dogs in Canada, further extending its ongoing support for service animal organizations. The company has a history of contributing to service animal organizations across the U.S., such as Guide Dogs for the Blind, Warrior Canine Connection, Patriot Paws and more. Its latest donation reflects its commitment to helping Canadian customers and providing service animals across the country.
By vetting and supporting accredited charities, RAWZ knows its contributions are impactful for veterans, disabled individuals, and autistic children and adults.
RAWZ presenting a check of their donation to National Service Dogs. Courtesy RAWZ Natural Pet Foods
“Our mission at RAWZ is to help as many service dog organizations, cat and dog rescues, and spinal cord and traumatic brain injury survivors through the organizations we support,” said Janet Scott, owner of RAWZ. “Our long-term commitment is to keep making premium products for dogs and cats because we truly care about the animals we feed. We’ll continue to spread the message that we donate 100% of our profits, hoping people will feel good about feeding their pets a premium food while also making a positive impact on others and animals around the world.”
Looking ahead, RAWZ plans to continue supporting service dog organizations, rescues, and spinal cord and traumatic brain injury survivors.
“Thank you to our customers, retailers and distributors for playing a crucial role in our mission to make the world a better place,” said Scott. “Your support enables us to give back in meaningful ways, making a lasting impact on the lives of both people and animals.”
Natoo supports children recovering from cancer
In 2023, Natoo extended its support for Casa Hopes “Comprehensive Care for Children and Adolescents with Cancer” project, which helps to reintegrate pediatric cancer survivors into everyday life. The partnership was driven by Natoo’s commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of children overcoming the disease.
The program provides essential rehabilitation services for children recovering from cancer, including therapy, educational programs, housing, food assistance and cultural outings. It also provides support to their families, recognizing the financial and emotional challenges they face during treatment.
By assisting both children and their families, Natoo aims to contribute to a healthier future for these young survivors.
“This project aims to uphold the right to health for children and adolescents with cancer, as well as liver and kidney transplant recipients, organ donors and their caregivers,” said Fernando Maluf, vice president of international sales at Natoo. “Its goal is to improve their ability to manage the challenges of the disease by addressing social, emotional and health-related needs, ultimately facilitating their preparation for social reintegration and life after hospital discharge.”
Natoo has been a proud partner of Casa Hope since 2017, and the company is committed to continuing this partnership for years to come.
Casa Hopes “Comprehensive Care for Children and Adolescents with Cancer” project helps to reintegrate pediatric cancer survivors into everyday life. Courtesy Natoo
GivePet spreads love to shelter animals, one treat at a time
Founded on a passion for helping animals in need, GivePet was born out of a desire to make a difference in the lives of shelter pets.
According to GivePet owner and founder Chris Dennis, treats are one of the most requested items at shelters and rescues, where they play a crucial role in socializing and training dogs and cats to prepare them for adoption. Recognizing this need, Dennis and his wife Christine, along with their love for animals sparked by personal experiences, set out to create a brand that not only offers high-quality treats but can also give back in a meaningful way. For every bag sold, GivePet provides enough treats for at least 10 shelter animals, directly supporting rescues and shelters.
For every bag sold, GivePet provides at least 10 treats for shelter animals. Courtesy GivePet
Dennis’ personal inspiration stems from a family history of pet rescue.
“My sister Jackie rescued dogs and cats her entire life,” he stated. “She suggested I get into the pet industry in 2000. I sold premium pet food for 16 years and then started GivePet in May 2016.”
Though GivePet mainly focuses on donating treats, the company supports a variety of other organizations including food pantries, service dog organizations and search-and-rescue efforts.
What makes GivePets unique is its commitment to partnering with local retailers.
“We rely on our community of retail partners to recommend organizations in the same local communities the treats are sold in,” said Dennis. “Giving back to local rescues that are recommended by the retailers that sell the treats.”
GivePet plans to continue expanding partnerships with shelters, aiming to reach as many rescues as possible. The company’s mission is rooted in the belief that every business should give back in some way.