Let’s face it: our furry friends deserve the best. But as dog parents, we also want to make choices that reflect our values—caring for our planet, animals, and communities. That’s why the dog food industry is experiencing a revolution. Dog parents like you are looking beyond shiny packaging and asking the big questions: Where do these ingredients come from? What impact do they have on the planet?
Here at PawCo, we’re thrilled to see this shift because responsible sourcing has been a cornerstone of what we do from day one. Read on to see why this trend is so important and how our PSC accredited formulas, with plant-based ingredients, are changing the game.
PawCo’s Commitment to Responsible Sourcing
When we say “responsible sourcing,” we mean ensuring every ingredient we use aligns with our values of sustainability, animal welfare, and social responsibility. It’s not just a buzzword—it’s a promise.
Our Supplier Code of Conduct holds all our partners to the highest standards. From the farms that grow our ingredients to the facilities that process them, everyone we work with shares our commitment to doing right by the planet, animals, and people. Transparency is a big part of this, too. We want our customers to know where their dog’s meals come from and the positive impact those choices have.
With every recipe we create, we’re proving that healthy, delicious food for your dog can also be kind to the planet and its creatures.
Why Plant-Based Ingredients Make a Difference
Traditional pet food relies heavily on animal-based ingredients, and while it might fill a bowl, it comes at a high cost to the environment. Livestock farming is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water consumption. On the other hand, plant-based ingredients like peas, pumpkin, and spinach are far gentler on the Earth while still delivering top-notch nutrition for dogs.
Plant-based diets require significantly fewer resources to produce. Think about it: growing plants directly for food skips the energy-intensive steps of raising and feeding animals. This not only reduces emissions but also conserves water and land. Choosing plant-based for your pup means you’re reducing their “pawprint” and helping create a more sustainable future.
In the words of Allison Reser, director of sustainability and innovation at the Pet Sustainability Coalition:
“Many pet food companies are setting decarbonization targets and recognizing that ingredient procurement is a significant, if not the largest, source of emissions. To meet these goals, companies must strategically source ingredients that produce fewer emissions or even contribute to soil regeneration and carbon sequestration.”
And the benefits aren’t just for the planet. Plant-based dog food, when formulated correctly, can support healthy digestion, vibrant coats, and even fewer allergies. It’s a win-win!
The PSC Accreditation: What It Means and Why It Matters
In 2024, PawCo proudly earned accreditation from the Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC). If you’re not familiar with PSC, they’re like the superheroes of sustainability in the pet industry, working to create a healthier, more responsible future for all our pets and the planet.
Being accredited by PSC isn’t just a shiny badge to show off—it’s validation of our hard work and commitment to ethical business practices, sustainable sourcing, and environmental care. For you, it means peace of mind knowing that your choices align with the highest standards of responsibility. For us, it’s a reminder to keep pushing forward and finding even more ways to improve.
Consumer Demand is Driving Change
We’re not alone in this journey. Across the globe, pet parents are asking for responsibly sourced, sustainable products. A recent industry report highlighted that more than half of consumers have or are willing to switch brands if it means supporting sustainability and responsible sourcing.
This demand is reshaping the pet food aisle, with more brands exploring innovative ingredients like plant-based proteins and even insects. But we believe the real key to sustainability isn’t about jumping on trends—it’s about staying true to values. That’s why everything we do at PawCo is rooted in our commitment to doing what’s right, not just what’s popular.
A Shared Responsibility
The beauty of this shift toward responsible sourcing is that it shows how much we all care—not just about our own dogs, but about every animal, the environment, and future generations. Every time you choose responsibly sourced, plant-based options for your dog, you’re casting a vote for a kinder, healthier world.
So, let’s keep the momentum going. Whether it’s by supporting brands like PawCo or simply learning more about the impact of your choices, you’re making a difference. And trust us—your dog, the planet, and all its creatures are grateful.
Ready to give fresh, plant-based dog food a go? Get started with PawCo today, for the health of your dog and the planet!