Pet Product 2009

Outstanding Pet Product 2009: Dogswell® Veggie Life® Happy Hips® Chicken & Apple

Just as functional (human) foods have made a splash at retail, Dogswell founder Marco Giannini realized that pet treats with added health benefits had strong potential. Giannini also had inspiration in the form of a white German shepherd named Emily that developed hip dysplasia. The difficult and unpleasant experience of giving his dog pills inspired Giannini to create new solutions for pet owners. In 2003, he launched Dogswell and the company now carries an extensive line of functional foods and treats for canines, as well as a sister line called Catswell.

The award-winning Veggie Life Happy Hips Chicken & Apple are made with apples wrapped in cage-free, hormone- and antibiotic-free chicken. “We use natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin and bake them into the treats so that each one has the functional supplements to help maintain healthy hips and joints,” explains Jenny Williams, marketing manager of the Los Angeles-based company. “Happy Hips® is our most popular line of products, which includes Chicken Breast Jerky, Duck Breast Jerky, Lamb & Rice, Beef Liver, Chicken & Apple, Chicken & Banana, Chicken & Sweet Potato, Sweet Potato Chews, and Biscuits with Benefits™. Our Chicken & Apple treats are becoming one of our top Happy Hips treats.”

Dogswell also has a Vitality line with flaxseed and vitamins to help maintain healthy eyes, skin and coat; a Shape Up line that is low in fat and calories and a Healthy Heart line with flaxseed and taurine. Suggested retail price: $7.99/ 5-ounces. dogswell.com.–S. Segrest