Joe Markham, founder of the KONG dog toy, has recently been focusing on developing products for underrepresented segments in the pet industry. His latest efforts have targeted zoo animals, horses, and larger dogs through the PetKORE brand, aiming to enhance the wellbeing of various animal species.
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In a recent interview with Pet Age, Markham shared insights on his journey and the mission of PetKORE. He recounted the story of Fritz, his German Shepherd, whose playful nature inspired the creation of KONG. Originally adopted to serve as a watchdog, Fritz proved to be an extraordinary companion with a penchant for fetching. His obsession with fetch ultimately led Markham to seek a safer alternative to traditional toys, prompting him to experiment with industrial items until he discovered a Volkswagen rear suspension part that sparked the idea for KONG.
Markham emphasized the importance of enrichment for not just household pets but all animals. His experience with Fritz taught him that enrichment is essential for animal wellbeing. After introducing KONG toys to local zoos, he recognized the varying enrichment needs across species, which drove him to explore creating toys suitable for larger animals. This passion culminated in the establishment of PetKORE, dedicated to advancing enrichment for dogs, cats, horses, and zoo animals.
Markham credited Dr. Peter Emily, a prominent figure in exotic animal dentistry, as a significant mentor throughout his career. Emily's insights into animal dental health greatly influenced Markham's approach to product design, emphasizing the importance of matching materials and shapes to an animal’s specific chewing behaviors.
Defining innovation in pet products, Markham stated that it should solve genuine problems while enhancing animal welfare. He believes true innovation combines material and behavioral sciences, resulting in durable and safe products that promote natural behaviors.
Lastly, Markham encouraged those interested in the pet care industry to follow PetKORE's developments, which reflect his ongoing commitment to improving animal lives through thoughtful design and collaboration with experts.