Pet care startups from the U.S., Canada and Australia have been named finalists for the eighth annual Pet Care Innovation Prize powered by Purina, officials for the company reported. Each winner received $25,000 and support from company, including a boot camp at Purina’s headquarters in St. Louis, as they work to grow their businesses in the pet care industry, officials added.
This year’s finalists represent innovation across the spectrum of pet care products and services, from pet enrichment toys, a toothbrush designed specifically for a cat’s anatomy, alternative protein and allergy-friendly pet treats and food, to a microchip that monitors pet health from the inside, and a platform to help organizations provide foster care for pets, officials said.
Arch Pet Food: Chicago-based Arch Pet Food company offers alternative protein pet treats and food by utilizing superfoods such as microalgae, insect proteins, and invasive fish as key ingredients.
BestyBnB: Kansas City, Mo.-based BestyBnB bridges the gap between human social services and animal welfare organizations by securing safe, temporary housing for clients’ pets when they are in challenging situations where they cannot care for their pets, officials said.
Ryercat: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada-based Ryercat hopes to redefine feline oral health with a toothbrush and dental line designed specifically for feline anatomy, officials said.
SwiftPaws: Melbourne, Fla.-based SwiftPaws makes enrichment products to exercise and entertain pets. SwiftPaws was featured on Shark Tank in 2022.
VetChip: Perth, Australia-based VetChip is a biotechnology company dedicated to improving animal health and welfare through pioneering technology that monitors, analyzes, and detects pet health issues.
The five finalists will present their businesses in March at Global Pet Expo, an annual trade show presented by the American Pet Products Association and the Pet Industry Distributors Association. The grand prize winner will receive an additional $25,000 in cash from Purina.