Chews Happiness – a dog treat bakery, based in Boulder, CO, was created after founders Tavor White and Meeta Gawande returned from an impactful trip to Bhutan.
Inspired by Bhutan’s commitment to Gross National Happiness (GNH), a concept that values protecting the environment, people, and culture over making money, they quit their corporate jobs to start Chew’s Happiness.
From sourcing to production and packaging, Chews Happiness takes it seriously to uphold ethical and sustainable practices. The Pet Sustainability Coalition has named them one of the top 20 pet companies in 2020. They are also recognized by 1% for the Planet, the Animal Wellness Magazine, and vets.
Chews Happiness is committed to supporting traditional lifestyles and local cultures of indigenous people. Their Ingredients such as camel cheese, are sourced from nomadic herders in the Gobi Desert, who are facing forced migrations due to droughts caused by global warming.
Their yak cheese is sourced from Bhutan, the only country in the world that is carbon-negative. In fact, 72% of Bhutan’s land is covered in forest, allowing native wildlife to flourish and roam freely.
Sourcing ingredients from herders isn’t the only way they are helping this developing country. Their artisanal dog sweaters are woven by women in Bhutan, providing them with income. They also give back 1% of purchases to animal rescue efforts in Bhutan.
Other organic ingredients such as free-range chicken, dairy, and honey are sourced directly from small farmers. Partners of Chews Happiness must meet a list of policies that positively impact people, animals, and the environment. They are also regularly evaluated.
Dog treats at Chew Happiness are handcrafted and packaged sustainably. Their packaging materials include recycled paper, vegetable-based ink, and reclaimed cotton.
No plastic is ever used unless it is certified biodegradable. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved of their eco-friendly packaging through its BioPreferred® program.
By taking a holistic approach to business and the world, our goal is to create a never-ending Happiness Cycle for pets, people, and the planet.
– Chews Happiness
To learn more about their principles, dog products, and global projects, read their CSR guideline and visit their Mindful Market shop!
