pet retail franchise

Named Top Pet Franchise for the Eighth-Consecutive Year.

LIVONIA, Mich. — Recognized on the franchise industry’s most-reputable and competitive annual ranking, Pet Supplies Plus, the largest independent pet retailer in North America with over 600 stores in 38 states, ranked No. 20 on Entrepreneur Magazine’s 2022 Franchise 500 list.

The ranking evaluates from the following five key factors: the size & growth of the company, costs & fees, support, brand strength and financial strength & stability. Each eligible franchisor was scored based on more than 150 data points, and those with the highest cumulative scores became the Franchise 500.

Pet Supplies Plus, America’s Favorite Neighborhood Pet Store remains No. 1 in the pet category for the eighth-consecutive year. This annual recognition for the largest independent pet retailer, follows one of the strongest development years to date with 118 new store agreements signed.

As many industries continue to weather obstacles, the pet retail category leader experienced its best year yet, cutting 85 grand opening ribbons, including its 600th store opening in 2021. Even with supply chain challenges becoming the norm for countless businesses, Pet Supplies Plus has been able to limit disruption for neighbors with access to multiple distribution centers and offering a mix of specialty foods, natural and organic options.

“We have seen a significant spike in interest and deals since the beginning of the pandemic. From our existing owners who are developing additional locations to new franchisees who want to be a part of the year-over-year growth of the pet category,” said CEO Chris Rowland. “The love for pets will continue to drive the need for a neighborhood pet store, full of quality products and well-versed team members who are ready to assist.”

Set in welcoming neighborhood environments, Pet Supplies Plus team members get to know their neighbors and pets by name at every store. Full-service grooming, self-serve pet wash stations and fresh bakery treats are also available in-store at many locations. Neighbors can now fill prescriptions online, and receive home delivery for quality medications and specialty diets. Whether shopping in-store or online, choosing your local neighborhood pet store is easy.

America’s Favorite Neighborhood Pet Store and Premium Pet Food Maker Help Provide Service Dogs to Deserving Veterans.

FORNEY, Texas — Pet Supplies Plus, the nation’s leading pet retail franchise has once again joined forces with Natural Balance® to raise awareness about the profound impact Service Dogs have on America’s servicemen and women. As a result of this continued national partnership, Natural Balance and Pet Supplies Plus have donated $50,000 to Patriot PAWS Service Dogs, a non-profit that trains and provides Service Dogs for disabled Veterans, at no cost. Pet Supplies Plus in Forney will host a check presentation on November 9^th at 10 a.m.

Throughout November, the purchase of any Natural Balance product at all of the 590+ Pet Supplies Plus locations help to support the $50,000 donation to Patriot PAWS. This donation will help provide Service Dogs, at no cost, to disabled American Veterans with mobile disabilities to help restore and maintain their physical and emotional independence.

“As a company, it’s an honor to continue our partnership with Natural Balance and Patriot PAWS once again,” said Chris Rowland, CEO of Pet Supplies Plus. “The impact that a Service Dog can have on a disabled Veteran is life changing and we hope that this donation will help Patriot PAWS continue their mission. Our neighbors truly care about donating to worthy causes like Patriot PAWS and we thank them for allowing us to make this donation possible to commemorate Veterans Day.”

The check presentation at the Forney Pet Supplies Plus, located at 471 Marketplace Blvd #100, Forney, TX will take place on November 9 at 10 a.m. CST. Local U.S. Army Veteran, Zac Tyler will be on-site at the event with the Service Dog he was matched with from Patriot PAWS Service Dogs this past summer. Zac Tyler of AR served in the United States Army Infantry as well as Army National Guard attaining the rank of Corporal. Zac served a total of 7 years.

“For over 10 years now, we’ve partnered with Pet Supplies Plus to bring awareness to Patriot PAWS and their amazing organization in honor of Veterans Day,” said Darcy Hagan, Vice President of Sales, Natural Balance. “We are always looking for ways to give back and this donation helps Patriot PAWS continue their incredible work of providing American servicemen and women with the invaluable gift of a Service Dog.”

While the positive impact of Service Dogs on the wellbeing of Veterans is widely known, many are unaware of the immense costs associated with training a Service Dog, which is around $35,000 per dog. Patriot PAWS aims to eliminate this cost for the Veteran with the help of their donors, volunteers, and training programs. On top of the existing demand, countless studies indicate the devastating impact of the pandemic, alone, has on the emotional and physical health of the nation, including American Veterans – making Patriot PAWS’ services that much more essential.

Founded in 2006 by professional dog trainer, Lori Stevens, Patriot PAWS aims to train and place Service Dogs with disabled Veterans. Since 2015, Patriot PAWS has placed 293 total teams with Veterans and others with mobile disabilities. Currently, they have 85 Service Dogs in training. Patriot PAWS can house up to 25 Service Dogs at their Rockwall Campus and the rest dispersed throughout their various programs, which include the Texas A&M Student Led Puppy Raiser Program, their local DFW Puppy Raiser Program, and their partnership with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice where inmates in three local prisons train Service Dogs. The organization continues to remain focused on their mission, and with the help of Pet Supplies Plus and Natural Balance, expects to be able to make a handful of additional placements by the end of the year.

“The funds raised from the partnership between Pet Supplies Plus and Natural Balance will allow us to continue our mission to help provide our disabled American Veterans with a Patriot PAWS Service Dogs,” said, Patriot PAWS Founder Lori Stevens. “Donations like these allow our organization to remain at no-cost to those who receive the gift of a Service Dog.”

Pet Supplies Plus offers a wide array of natural pet foods and a variety of made-in-the-USA pet consumables, including food, treats, rawhide and chews. Set in welcoming neighborhood environments, Pet Supplies Plus team members get to know their neighbors and pets by name at every store. Full-service grooming, self-serve pet wash stations and fresh bakery treats are also available in-store at many locations. Neighbors can now fill prescriptions online and receive home delivery for quality medications and specialty diets. Whether shopping in-store or online, choosing local is easy. For more information, visit www.petsuppliesplus.com.

Pet Supplies Plus Now Offers Prescription Pet Medications and Food, Signaling the Brand’s Commitment to Convenience as Pet Ownership Continues to Surge Across the Country.

LIVONIA, Mich. — Pet Supplies Plus, the nation’s leading pet retail franchise, continues to make good on its promise of convenience to pet owners everywhere. The neighborhood-favorite brand has officially expanded its offerings to include prescription pet medications and food. Available online, this expanded array of products allows Pet Supplies Plus to continue to meet evolving pet parent needs – truly becoming a one-stop shop for busy pet owners.

Pet Supplies Plus will offer Hill’s Prescription Diet, Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets, flea and tick treatments, heartworm medications and more, with brand name and generic prescription options available. By working with Vetsource®, a pet health company that provides innovative pharmacy, technology and business services and one of the only major pharmacies that partners closely with veterinarians, Pet Supplies Plus is helping ensure pet owners and their beloved pets remain under the supervision of their veterinarian and receive the care and products they need.

“Our team – which is filled with animal lovers – understands firsthand how pets truly become a member of each family. Providing online ordering of prescription medications and food is just another way we’re enhancing our offerings for each and every pet,” said Chris Rowland, CEO of Pet Supplies Plus. “Our neighbors already know they can trust us to provide quality food, treats, toys, beds and everything else necessary for pets, but now we can take that a step further and really help put pet owners in touch with specially formulated prescription diets, medication and more to keep their furry friends safe and healthy.”

Prescription orders placed online through Pet Supplies Plus are routed to the pet’s veterinarian for electronic processing through Vetsource.

“Since Vetsource was founded, we’ve remained steadfast in our commitment to supporting veterinary practices with tools and technology that make their lives easier and ultimately help them focus on providing quality pet care,” said Kurt Green, president and CEO of Vetsource, based in Portland, Ore. “By enabling electronic approval of prescription orders placed through Pet Supplies Plus, we’re able to ensure veterinarians have visibility into whether pet owners are receiving the prescription products their pets need and adhering to therapy recommendations.”

As a fully licensed pharmacy in all 50 states, Vetsource acquires medications safely and directly from pharmaceutical companies. Each prescription passes through industry-leading safety checks conducted by Vetsource’s pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, all of whom are trained in veterinary pharmacology. This provides an unparalleled level of expertise and ensures neighbors receive prescription products that are safe and appropriate for their pets.

Pet Supplies Plus offers a wide array of natural pet foods and a variety of made-in-the-USA pet consumables, including food, treats, rawhide and chews. Set in welcoming neighborhood environments, Pet Supplies Plus team members get to know their neighbors and pets by name at every store. Full-service grooming, self-serve pet wash stations and a bakery case are also available in-store at many locations. Neighbors can now fill prescriptions online, and receive home delivery for quality medications and specialty diets. Choosing local is easy, whether neighbors shop in-store or online. For more information, visit www.petsuppliesplus.com.

Pup’s Cute Reaction to Question “Do You Wanna Go for a Ride?” Earns Her Instagram Notoriety.

DETROIT — Mishka, an adorable 5-month-old puppy who lives just outside Buffalo, NY, likes to go on car rides. So much so that her enthusiastic reaction to an offer of going for a road trip earned her prizes and attention in a national social media contest.

Mishka was one of several pets nationwide to participate in a joint campaign to promote pet safety and comfort, as well as car protection during summer road trip season. The #CoPilotPets campaign, a collaboration of pet retail franchise Pet Supplies Plus and global car care provider Ziebart, featured a video contest held this month on Instagram spotlighting the interesting reactions pets can have to the simple question: “Wanna go for a ride?”

The endearing and humorous winning video won Mishka and her pet parent a free Inner-Guard PLUS interior detailing service from Ziebart valued at approximately $250, along with a gift basket of travel pet products and a $100 gift card from Pet Supplies Plus. (See here for a compilation video of multiple adorable contest entries.)

“It was so fun to see the responses of the pets in the video entries,” said Larisa Walega, Vice President of Marketing at Ziebart. “Coordinating this campaign with Pet Supplies Plus provided an opportunity to educate not only on how to keep pets comfortable and safe during summer road trips, but also how to protect your vehicle against the damage these little cuties can cause.”

Mishka’s first big road trip will be for 3.5 hours to Utica, NY to meet extended family. Her pet parents hope to take her with them on more road trip vacations on the East Coast, including a possible trip all the way to Myrtle Beach. According to pet parent Colin G. Vogel, Mishka plans to start her shopping spree in the leash and harness aisle. Describing her as a fashionista, Vogel said Mishka might also get some more matching and stylish gear for the summer, as well as treats and toys.

“Mishka’s favorite things to do include eating delicious snacks, chewing on squeaky toys and splashing in her little pool,” Vogel said. “She also likes to take long walks in the woods, eat ice cream and have doggy play dates. She’s very popular in our neighborhood and loves taking time to greet all our friendly neighbors. Everyone loves Mishka!”

A Few Summer Pet Travel Tips from the Experts at Pet Supplies Plus and Ziebart:

• Ahead of a longer trip, take your pet on shorter jaunts to gauge how they handle the car.
• Bring along favorite toys or blankets as familiar smells and textures from home will help pets relax.
• Pack collapsible bowls and water bottles designed for pets and special travel storage containers for food and water.
• Consider a pet seat belt tether, as some states require pet owners to keep their animal safely restrained in vehicles.
• Make sure your pet is groomed and their nails are trimmed before you go to cut down on fur particles and scratching damage.
• Beware of the heat & sun.  Window tint can protect from dangerous UV rays and greatly reduces heat throughout the vehicle.
• Consider fabric protection for your car interior to keep it safe from pet stains. Bring along an airtight trash bag, paper towel and a pack of disinfectant wipes for bathroom accidents until you can get to your nearest professional detailer.

About Ziebart
Founded in 1959, Ziebart provides premium automotive appearance and protection services to extend the life of your vehicle. Clean, disinfect, enhance, and protect with the highest quality products and services, exceptional workmanship, and knowledgeable staff. Experience a clean, disinfected interior with a variety of auto detailing services. Reflect your world with Z-Gloss® ceramic paint protection coatings, protect with Genuine Ziebart rust protection and Rhino Linings® Spray-On Bed Liner, customize with window tint, and more. Get back that new car feeling with Ziebart.  For more information, please visit www.ziebart.com.

Social Media Contest Spotlights Pets’ Amusing Reactions to Going on a Summer Car Ride.

DETROIT — Finding a fun way to promote pet safety and car protection for summer road trip season, pet retail franchise Pet Supplies Plus has teamed up with global car care provider Ziebart to launch #CoPilotPets. The campaign will feature a video contest on Instagram spotlighting the interesting reactions pets can have to the simple question: “Wanna go for a ride?”

For the video contest, which runs June 7 through June 20, pet parents are asked to snap a quick video of their pets’ adorable, humorous or lackadaisical reactions to the idea of going on a car ride. To enter, they can post their video to Instagram using the hashtag #Copilotpets. For a chance to win, participants must make sure to follow both Pet Supplies Plus and Ziebart, and tag them in their posts. The winner, which will be drawn randomly, will be announced on June 22, 2021.

The prize pack includes a free Inner-Guard PLUS interior detailing service from Ziebart valued at approximately $250, along with a gift basket of travel pet products and a $100 gift card from Pet Supplies Plus.

“Road trips have gained popularity over the last year, and this collaboration with Ziebart is a fun and timely way to highlight how to keep pets safe and happy in vehicles, as well as protect against the damage they innocently can cause to cars,” said Chris Rowland, CEO of Pet Supplies Plus. “Pets bring us so much joy and laughter, which is especially needed after this past year. We can’t wait to see the entertaining videos our neighbors submit.”

As part of the campaign, experts from both companies created an educational article offering helpful tips for traveling with pets, including:

Summer Pet Travel Tips:

• Ahead of a longer trip, take your pet on shorter jaunts to gauge how they handle the car. Then take them on more frequent short rides to get them used to it.
• Bring along their favorite toys or blanket for the ride, as familiar smells and textures from home will help pets relax.
• Pack collapsible bowls and water bottles designed for pets, as well as special travel storage containers for food and water.
• Consider a pet seat belt tether, as some states require pet owners to keep their animal safely restrained in vehicles.
• Make sure your pet is groomed and their nails are trimmed before you go to cut down on fur particles and scratching damage.
• UV rays and heat can be harmful, especially on long car rides. Window tint can protect from dangerous UV rays and greatly reduces heat throughout the vehicle.
• Our pet co-pilots often surprise us with anything from car sickness to christening our vehicle as their new bathroom. Consider fabric protection for your car interior to keep it safe from pet stains. In addition, be prepared with an airtight trash bag, paper towel and a pack of disinfectant wipes to tide you over before you can get to your nearest professional detailer.

About Ziebart
Founded in 1959, Ziebart provides premium automotive appearance and protection services to extend the life of your vehicle. Clean, disinfect, enhance, and protect with the highest quality products and services, exceptional workmanship, and knowledgeable staff. Experience a clean, disinfected interior with a variety of auto detailing services. Reflect your world with Z-Gloss® ceramic paint protection coatings, protect with Genuine Ziebart rust protection and Rhino Linings® Spray-On Bed Liner, customize with window tint, and more. Get back that new car feeling with Ziebart.  For more information, please visit www.ziebart.com.

America’s Favorite Neighborhood Pet Store Continues Partnership with VIP Petcare, Reducing Microchipping Services to $10 to Aid in Reuniting Families with Lost Pets.

LIVONIA, Mich. — Pet Supplies Plus – the largest and most trusted pet retail franchise in the United States – has announced it will be celebrating this year’s National Pet ID Week (April 17-24) by offering discounted microchipping services and name identification tags. During the promotion, pet owners have the opportunity to receive the microchipping service for $10 with a $50 minimum purchase, which is a fraction of the usual cost. In addition to the microchip offer, the Pet Supplies Plus brand will be providing a buy one collar, get an ID tag for free, valid on tags priced $10.98 and under.

During this time, participating Pet Supplies Plus stores across the nation will partner with VIP Petcare, that national veterinary care platform of PetIQ, to offer microchipping vouchers to pet families with any in-store purchase. Neighbors can receive their voucher for discounted microchipping throughout the week of April 17-24 while supplies last, at their nearest Pet Supplies Plus store. To find the nearest Pet Supplies Plus store, neighbors are welcomed to visit www.petsuppliesplus.com/Store. For locations that offer microchipping services specifically, look for locations with VIP Petcare clinics.

Each voucher is for the special discounted rate and is valid through June 28, 2021. Typically, this type of microchipping service at VIP Petcare retails for $25, which is already at a reduced rate compared to the average cost of $45 for microchipping services.

One out of three pets become lost at some point in their lifetime according to the American Humane Association. It is crucial for pet owners to understand their best opportunity to return a pet safely home if lost is a microchip along with and identification tag. To help ensure pet owners are well-informed about the process and to help make it more affordable, Pet Supplies Plus has partnered with VIP Petcare to offer this essential procedure.

• Over 9 million companion animals are admitted to shelters in the U.S. every year, and many of these are euthanized because their owners cannot be found.
• Microchipped pets are 2.5 times more likely to be returned to their owners.
• Dogs without microchips are returned to their owners about 22% of the time, but microchipped dogs are returned over 50% of the time.

“Especially as more and more families across the nation welcomed a new pet into their homes within the last year alone, it’s especially important that we do our part to invest in their well-being to ensure, if lost, these pets in our communities return home safely,” said Chris Rowland, Chief Executive Officer of Pet Supplies Plus. “Our neighbors and their pets become our family – in and out of our stores – and it’s equally as devastating to learn when a pet in our community is missing. That is why we hope this initiative with VIP Petcare helps educate and provide affordable access to microchipping and pet ID tag services to our neighbors nationwide.”

Now with more than 500 locations in 35 states across the country, Pet Supplies Plus offers a wide array of natural pet foods, a variety of Made in the USA pet consumables, such as wet and dry food, treats, rawhide and chews. Set in welcoming neighborhood environments, Pet Supplies Plus team members get to know their neighbors and pets by name at every store. Many locations also feature a full offering of grooming services tailored to meet every pet’s needs, including washes, haircuts, body brushing, flea treatment and nail, skin, ear and oral care. For more information, visit www.petsuppliesplus.com.

About PetIQ
PetIQ is a leading pet medication and wellness company delivering a smarter way for pet parents to help their pets live their best lives through convenient access to affordable veterinary products and services. The company engages with customers through more than 60,000 points of distribution across retail and e-commerce channels with its branded distributed medications, which is further supported by its own world-class medications manufacturing facility in Omaha, Nebraska. The company’s national service platform, VIP Petcare, operates in over 3,400 retail partner locations in 41 states providing cost effective and convenient veterinary wellness services. PetIQ believes that pets are an important part of the family and deserve the best products and care we can give them.

Named Top Pet Franchise for the Seventh-Consecutive Year.

LIVONIA, Mich. — Recognized on the franchise industry’s most-reputable and competitive annual ranking, Pet Supplies Plus, the largest independent pet retailer in North America with over 500 stores in 35 states, ranked 21st on Entrepreneur Magazine’s 2021 Franchise 500 list.

The pet retailer known for its neighborhood friendliness and “Minus the hassle” shopping experience, jumped 29 spots compared to last year’s ranking and was named No. 1 in the “Pet Store” category for the seventh-consecutive year.

The 42nd-annual Franchise 500 ranking was calculated with a proprietary formula built to evaluate franchises using five key factors: growth and size; brand strength; costs and fees; franchise support; and financial strength and stability.

The growth of Pet Supplies Plus only supports the brand’s reputation as a recession-resilient franchise opportunity. In fact, the franchise is expected to open 100 new stores this year, which includes rebranding nearly 40 previously-operated Pet Valu stores across seven states. The real estate transaction alone increased the brand’s paw print by 10 percent.

In addition, the retailer with 30-plus years of industry expertise, omni-channel shopping and turnkey processes signed 87 franchise agreements in 2020. The recently-signed deals include former independent pet store owners who joined for the support and systems that come along with an established national brand. It also included existing restaurant owners who expanded their business portfolio with a compatible add-on business and notable AUV.

“The pet industry is strong, and when that is paired with a historically-successful franchise system well known for its unwavering support to its owners, it’s inevitable our strength and stability would be recognized and attract entrepreneurs,” said CEO Chris Rowland. “The signings were all investors eager to join or expand their existing presence with our pet-loving, passionate brand.”

Pet Supplies Plus has remained one the fastest-growing pet retailers because the company’s tagline, Minus the hassle, extends to the franchise owners as well. This entails taking care of all the back-office duties, including IT support, reliable data, merchandising, marketing, supply chain, promotions, pricing and managing their social media.

“We’re evidence that local retail works when it is powered by a passion-driven franchisee and backed by a large organization designed to provide top-of-the-line processes and services built both for our locally-owned stores and corporate locations,” said Rowland. “We want the owners bringing the in-store, delivery and curbside experience alive and running it smoothly for the neighbor’s convenience and all their individual pet needs.”

To add the No. 1 pet franchise to your portfolio, fill out the next step form to speak with a franchise development director.

Planned Rebranding of 40 Locations Saves Potential Jobs, Creates Turnkey Franchise Opportunities.

LIVONIA, Mich. — Closing its record-breaking growth year on a positive note, Pet Supplies Plus announced today it will acquire an estimated 40 previously operated Pet Valu locations throughout Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia with some locations to reopen with Pet Supplies Plus branding, products and services as early as January, 2021.

News of the conversions comes after Pet Valu announced last month it was shutting down all U.S. operations, including its 358 stores. By transforming and rebranding some of these store locations to Pet Supplies Plus, many jobs will be saved that might otherwise be lost in addition to keeping pet parents happy by providing a high-touch shopping experience.

Pet Supplies Plus, with over 500 stores in 35 states, is the fastest growing and largest independent pet retailer in North America, and is known for its neighborhood friendliness and Minus the hassle shopping experience.

According to company executives, the former Pet Valu stores will be a mix of corporate and franchisee-owned Pet Supplies Plus locations. These store conversions present a turnkey business opportunity for potential franchisees to step in and operate the stores with a significantly shortened store opening timeline, take advantage of established real estate and benefit from minimal build out expenses vs. building a brand new brick and mortar location. Potential franchisees will also benefit from inheriting an established neighbor base in need of pet foods, goods and services.

“I would like to extend gratitude to the Pet Valu team, who have been nothing but professional and supportive throughout this entire process,” said Nick Russo, senior vice president of franchising and store operations for Pet Supplies Plus. “This exemplifies the type of culture Pet Valu has developed, and we are excited to offer many Pet Valu associates a new home with us.”

Additionally, Russo said the company is seeking qualified franchise partners to be the face of Pet Supplies Plus for many of these locations, adding, “When you pair our national resources and established support systems with a passionate owner who knows the community well and keeps the neighbor at the forefront of all decisions, that’s when Pet Supplies Plus truly shines.”

Russo noted that Pet Supplies Plus has seen a positive impact from the increased spending on pets throughout the country during the pandemic. The demand for franchising opportunities has also increased. In fact, he said, the company is expected to open an estimated 100 new stores in 2021, which includes the previously operated Pet Valu stores obtained. This more than doubles the number of stores opened in 2020.

“We chose locations where we knew Pet Supplies Plus will make the biggest positive impact, especially for pet parents who need a community retailer to depend on for their pet needs,” said CEO Chris Rowland. “We’re honored to provide these neighborhoods with a large assortment of quality pet products and services with knowledgeable team members ready to help make pet ownership easier.”

Pet Supplies Plus is known for its welcoming neighborhood environment, where team members get to know their neighbors and pets by name at every store and offers a wide array of pet care products and toys, as well as natural pet foods and a variety of Made in USA pet consumables, such as wet and dry food, treats, rawhide and chews, both in store and online. Pet Supplies Plus can safely accommodate all in-store services like grooming, pet washes, and Vet Clinics, real-time advice and an opportunity for pets to do their own shopping. In addition, neighbors can conveniently shop online for same-day delivery services that bring pet food and supplies directly to homes, as well as free 2-hours curbside pickup.

America’s Favorite Neighborhood Pet Store Partners with Natural Balance® to Help Provide Service Dogs to Deserving, Disabled Veterans.

DENTON, Texas — Pet Supplies Plus, the largest and most trusted pet retail franchise in the United States, has collaborated with Natural Balance® to raise awareness about the incredible and positive impact pets have on active and former military servicemen and women. As a result of this national partnership, Natural Balance® donated $50,000 to Patriot PAWS Service Dogs, a non-profit that trains and provides service dogs for disabled veterans, at no cost. The local Pet Supplies Plus in Denton will host a check presentation, fittingly, on Veteran’s Day (November 11) at 9 a.m.

During the month of November, a portion of the proceeds from Natural Balance® products purchased at any of the 500+ Pet Supplies Plus locations contributed to the $50,000 donation to Patriot PAWS. The donation will help the organization provide service dogs, at no cost, to disabled American veterans with mobile disabilities in order to help restore and maintain their physical and emotional stability.

“We know the positive impact a support animal can have on a healing veteran, and how difficult it can be to await the relief that they can bring, which is why we’re humbled to do our part and continue our partnership with Patriot PAWS for the fourth consecutive year,” said Chris Rowland, CEO of Pet Supplies Plus. “With over 50 disabled American veterans waiting for a Patriot PAWS Service Dog, we hope these funds will help expedite the process to allow more veterans to be united with their service dog.”

The check will be presented at the Denton Pet Supplies Plus, located at 1400 S. Loop 288 in Denton, TX, at 9 a.m. CST.

While the positive impact of service dogs on the wellbeing of veterans is widely known, many are waitlisted to be matched with their Patriot PAWS service dog, as the level of disabled veteran applicants is so high. On top of the existing demand, countless studies indicate the devastating impact of the pandemic, alone, has on the emotional and physical health of the nation, including American veterans – making Patriot PAWS’ services that much more essential.

Founded in 2006 by professional dog trainer, Lori Stevens, Patriot PAWS aims to train and place service dogs with disabled veterans. The organization’s Rockwall campus in Texas houses and trains up to 35 dogs at a time with an additional 50-60 dogs trained at other locations. Year to date, they have placed 22 service dogs with veterans in need —aiding in their transition from military to civilian life. Although they have seen significantly less placements this year due to COVID, the organization continues to remain focused on their mission, and with the help of Pet Supplies Plus and Natural Balance®, expect to be able to make a few more placements by the end of the year.

“We are beyond thankful that Pet Supplies Plus was able to, once again, team up with Natural Balance® to support our mission,” said Patriot PAWS Founder Lori Stevens. “It allows us the ability to help provide some of our disabled American veterans currently on our waitlist with a Patriot PAWS Service Dog. This generous donation means more to us than ever before – ensuring highly trained service dogs at no cost to these deserving individuals.”

Now with more than 500 locations in 35 states across the country, Pet Supplies Plus offers a wide array of natural pet foods, a variety of Made in the USA pet consumables, such as wet and dry food, treats, rawhide and chews. Set in welcoming neighborhood environments, Pet Supplies Plus team members get to know their neighbors and pets by name at every store. Many locations also feature a full offering of grooming services tailored to meet every pet’s needs, including washes, haircuts, body brushing, flea treatment and nail, skin, ear and oral care. For more information, visit www.petsuppliesplus.com.