Here’s how my chronic illness inspired me to create a dog enrichment brand that is loved by thousands of dog owners worldwide. I want to tell you a bit about how it's gone so far and how it started…

Throwback to 2020, before I founded Paws in earnest when I was signed off sick with M.E, which is a debilitating illness that impacts your energy and overall health, on top of this we had just got a cocker spaniel puppy that needed a lot of attention and had boundless energy.

During that time I was struggling to bond with Marty, my new puppy as I felt I wasn’t able to do the basics, such as walking, playing & socialising. This is when I discovered the benefits of food based enrichment. 

Enrichment reduced some of his challenging puppy behaviours such as chewing and needing constant attention. The feeder toys kept him occupied and relaxed when my energy was low.

Although the benefits were huge I found myself struggling with how much time it took and the mess it created afterwards. This inspired me to create the Stopple, a plug and stand for enrichment feeder toys. This product quickly became loved world wide which showed me how great the need is for accessible dog toys that are easy to use for busy dog parents.  

After seeing so many products on the market that were unsafe with no air safety hole, I decided to take matters into my own hands, and along with my husband create an easy to fill safe feeder toy, that bridges the gap between bowl and toy. The Rylo makes it quick to grab and fill whilst still being mentally rewarding for your dog. Enabling many dog parents to ditch the bowl. 

So far we have received so many reviews and stories of how our products have impacted our customers lives! We have over 100 stockists worldwide which blows my mind every day. 

Another huge milestone within the business was being able to employ our first team member Sophie. Sophie also knows first hand the struggles of being a chronically ill dog owner as she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Inspiring me to create a brand that not only designs accessible products but also offers opportunities that I wish I had when trying to renavigate my career as a disabled woman. 

Since launching in 2020 we have celebrated numerous milestones, from being finalists in multiple awards, to collaborating with rescues and championing important causes, our products have helped dog owners build stronger bonds with their pets, comfort anxious dogs and support rescue efforts. More than just a business, paws in earnest has created a thriving community of dog lovers that is supportive, collaborative and ever growing.  

I’d love it if you would join our community of dog lovers and support Paws In Earnest on our mission to spread awareness of the importance of enrichment whilst making it more accessible for people to use as part of their daily routine.

Melissa x