PetKORE, a New Pet Enrichment, Grooming Brand From the Founder of KONG

Joe Markham is the founder of the original and iconic KONG dog toy. Made from natural rubber with a legally protected shape, dogs all over the world have played with the KONG dog toy. Whether dogs tried to get treats out of its hollow middle, chew on its durable surface, or retrieve it in a game of fetch, the KONG dog toy has stood the test of time.

Always wanting to enrich the lives of animals, Markham has focused his latest product development efforts on what he believes are underserved markets. Specifically, he has developed products for zoo animals and horses, while also developing products for larger dogs. Markham feels these are underserved market segments and that the PetKORE brand can have a positive impact on the lives of these animals. Enrichment toys and better designed grooming products are the brand’s initial focus. PetKORE products are all made in the U.S.A. with globally sourced materials, primarily use natural rubber, are patented or patent pending, and are highly functional while also being safe.

One new product is the new FloTek Ball. The FloTek sub-brand refers to the deep grooves on the sides of the ball, as well as the hole in the middle of ball. The ball is solid (not hollow) and the grooves make the ball easier for dogs to pick up during games of fetch and reduces the threat of a dog choking because air can move around and through the ball. Furthermore, the ball is made of Natural Rubber which makes it durable, while also having a lot of bounce! The ball comes in two sizes and in a version that includes a tug strap. For this reason, that product is called the FloTek Tug.

Similarly, PetKORE has developed two products under the KOREflex sub-brand. The KOREflex Ball and the KOREflex Ball & Tail are perfect for large dog breeds. The ball itself is 4.75 inches, includes raised side grooves for grip, is made with Natural Rubber, and has two holes that lead to a hollow core. The ball can be filled with treats, while the ball & tail version is great tug of war and other enrichment activities.

A great product example in the equine and grooming space is the PetKORE GroomRaker. The GroomRaker is a deshedding tool that has  seven individual grooming fingers that are molded from durable plastic. At the tips of those fingers are seven stainless steel blades that are specially designed to pull loose hair and debris away but not irritate skin. The seven fingers move individually to easily contour to uneven areas during grooming. When necessary, hair can be “flicked” off the tool with a quick wrist action.

Markham and his family members (KSP LLC) are primarily focused on product development, production and brand management. Regarding the sales, distribution and sales planning functions, Markham’s thought was to have a partner that could help KSP LLC or be responsible for these functions. Furthermore, he felt the products needed a partner with a new perspective. With that in mind, Markham reached out to his good friend, Jim Stout, owner of Coastal Pet Products, for advice. As a result, Coastal Pet Products is now the exclusive supplier and sales partner for the PetKORE brand.