Clayton interviews Rob Downey, the president of Annamaet Pet Foods, as he shares his own fascinating journey into the dog food industry. Rob recounts his early experiences with dogs, including his passion for sled dog racing and a life-changing encounter with a moose that nearly cost him his life. He discusses the evolution of pet nutrition, highlighting the importance of proper dietary balance and the shift towards premium pet foods over the years.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The journey into the pet food industry began with a deep-rooted passion for dogs and a pivotal experience involving a sled dog that led to a focus on canine nutrition. This passion has driven the development of high-quality pet food.

Over the years, there has been a significant shift in understanding pet nutrition, moving from outdated beliefs about protein restriction in aging dogs to recognising the need for higher protein levels as dogs age. This evolution reflects a broader trend in the humanisation of pets.

Building a successful pet food company requires not only knowledge of nutrition but also the ability to create palatable products. Initial challenges included ensuring that the food was appealing to even the pickiest of dogs, which was crucial for market acceptance.

The company emphasises a science-based approach to nutrition, with a team that includes a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. This commitment to research and transparency helps maintain credibility and relevance in the competitive pet food market.

As dogs live longer due to improved nutrition, there is a growing need to address geriatric health issues. The company is developing specialised formulas and supplements to support the health of aging dogs, reflecting a proactive approach to pet wellness.

BEST MOMENTS

"Honestly, it's all I've ever wanted to do is work with dogs."

"I changed the diet. And not only did Heidi get better, but the whole dog team performed better."

"It doesn't matter how good the nutrition is, if the palatability isn't there, it's not going to matter."

"I always tell people that a normal healthy dog won't starve himself because he doesn't like the taste of the food."

"The humanisation of pets... 92% of pet owners now consider them pets to be an essential part of the family."

HOST BIO

Clayton Payne is an industry veteran of three decades of working in the pet industry. Brought up working in his parents' pet store, Clayton has seen the industry evolve over five different decades and has been on the cutting edge of the industry since the nineties. Building pet businesses from scratch, establishing multi-national distribution chains and having worked in every aspect of the industry, Clayton has a rare insight into the Pet Industry that is rivalled by few.

Clayton has been the spearhead of many of the industry's changes and has introduced numerous new concepts to market with a trail of success behind him. He has worked in numerous countries within the pet industry, speaks four different languages and has established both import and export relationships on all continents (excluding Antarctica).

As well as being COO of one of the UKs fastest growing insect technology companies, Clayton is a Pet industry consultant who has consulted for many household brands and delivers sales training to pet trade professionals.

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This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/