The Farmer’s Dog invests US$10M in veterinary research to advance pet nutrition

USA – The Farmer’s Dog, a leading supplier of fresh pet food, has announced an additional US$10 million investment in veterinary research. 

This initiative aims to advance scientific understanding of pet nutrition, fund clinical studies, and support veterinarians as key partners in pet health.

Since its founding, The Farmer’s Dog has been dedicated to providing minimally processed, whole-food nutrition for dogs. 

The company’s latest investment will build upon its existing research, which includes significant studies on the impact of food on dog hydration, relative supersaturation, and several ongoing projects. 

By funding residencies, grants, and clinical studies at various universities, The Farmer’s Dog hopes to reinforce the role of scientifically backed nutrition in veterinary medicine and deepen the understanding of how fresh food impacts canine health and longevity.

“The Farmer’s Dog is the answer to the growing consumer preference for less processed foods along with the nutritional expertise and rigour that veterinarians trust,” said Jonathan Regev, co-founder and CEO of The Farmer’s Dog. 

“Since our founding, we have worked alongside veterinarians and veterinary nutritionists to pioneer this new approach to minimally processed pet food. Veterinary research is one of the most impactful ways we can improve pet health and longevity, and we’re excited to support further the experts leading this work.”

Collaborating with scholars 

A major component of this research initiative includes the company’s recent partnership with Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. 

The collaboration led to a groundbreaking long-term feeding trial, examining the impact of feeding dogs The Farmer’s Dog meals as their primary diet for three times the duration of a typical study. 

This study, which featured an extended trial period, a larger participant group, and comprehensive data collection, was overseen by animal scientists and Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionists. 

The results provided substantial evidence of the nutritional balance and completeness of The Farmer’s Dog recipes beyond industry standards. 

It is the first-of-its-kind study in fresh or human-grade pet nutrition and marks the initial phase of a broader research plan with the university.

Dr. Huson, Associate Professor at Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, emphasised the importance of such collaborations in advancing veterinary science. 

“We are deeply committed to advancing veterinary research and the well-being of companion animals,” said Dr. Huson. “The support from The Farmer’s Dog allows us to expand our efforts in this critical area of pet health, and we look forward to the continued impact of this research on the veterinary community and the pets and pet owners we serve.”

By integrating scientific research with a pet-first approach, the company sets new standards in the fresh pet food industry and ensures that pets receive optimal nourishment for healthier, longer lives. 

As more pet owners seek nutritious, minimally processed options for their animals, The Farmer’s Dog seeks to bridge the gap between pet nutrition and veterinary expertise.

Looking ahead, the company has ambitious plans to expand its research initiatives. Future projects may include studies on the impact of fresh food diets on ageing, weight management, and disease prevention in dogs.

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