Rochelle Vélez Pet Store

Simon was my first canine companion. He was six months old when I rescued him from the pound. I didn't find out what was legally allowed in dog food until he was nine years old. I was stunned and enraged. I discovered not only deceptive labels, hazardous chemical preservatives, and revolting "ingredients," but also a completely unregulated industry. One that is severely damaged.I started cooking for my own pets and immediately noticed a change. The neighbors did as well, and I soon found myself feeding their pets as well. I knew there had to be a better way. I put together a team of veterinarians and nutritionists to create healthy, nutritionally balanced meals, and in 2010, I opened the first-ever dog kitchen, where fresh food was prepared in the open for all to see.

Simon was my first canine companion. He was six months old when I rescued him from the pound. I didn't find out what was legally allowed in dog food until he was nine years old. I was stunned and enraged. I discovered not only deceptive labels, hazardous chemical preservatives, and revolting "ingredients," but also a completely unregulated industry. One that is severely damaged.I started cooking for my own pets and immediately noticed a change. The neighbors did as well, and I soon found myself feeding their pets as well. I knew there had to be a better way. I put together a team of veterinarians and nutritionists to create healthy, nutritionally balanced meals, and in 2010, I opened the first-ever dog kitchen, where fresh food was prepared in the open for all to see.

Pets aren't just roommates. They're blood relatives. When we see our favorite wagging tail, we realize the indescribable, pure love we feel. We also understand the paralyzing fear of not seeing them when they don't return home. We exist to keep our families together. Sure, today's technology may be able to assist in this endeavor. But the truth is that the easiest and most successful approach to reunite us with our closest buddy is still a simple tag.