Earth dog was founded by husband & wife team, Dave & Kym Colella in 1996, and manufacturers the finest eco-friendly hemp collars, leashes harnesses, beds and chew toys. Neither of them imagined that at the time they started making their first collars for their dogs that they would reach a milestone, with earth dog celebrating its 10th anniversary (thats 70 dog years). They weren't planning on selling anything to anyone, rather enjoying their attempts to provide their dogs with a piece of gear that properly represented their unique personalities. Well, one thing led to another (as it often does) and it is to all of their customers who have supported their efforts that they shout an enormous ""thank you"" for helping them get here.
With your support they continue to strive to create unique, eco-conscious products that dogs and people alike will love. Hemp, with its amazing versatility, has enabled them to create an entire product line of eco-friendly, durable goods that they are proud to offer. They gather their inspiration from their pack, 14 strong, and these four legged companions never let them down. They're all rescues from various walks of life and its misfortunes, and one way or another, have found their way to Dave & Kym doorsteps and into their hearts. You'll find their names on their collar patterns and their images throughout their line (you're also likely to hear them barking in the background).
At the end of the day, the cornerstone of their company remains the love of their dogs and the enrichment they add to their lives. Dave & Kym are once again reminded who and what they are: a family with a family business. They trust that the dogs in your life will enjoy these offerings as much as theirs do.
The founders are all about giving back to the fur community by creating a fund in honor of their late dog Kody, their companion for over 14 years who passed away November 1, 2004. Kody was a three-legged German Shepherd mix who stole the heart of Earth dog co-founder, Kym Colella. As a rescued dog, Kody was very timid (as many of them are in the beginning), but he was also a brilliant, inspiring and faithful companion to Kym for over 14 years. It is with this kind of inspiration, Earth dog continues with passion and drive (8 years running).
In order to pay homage to Kody a fund was set up in his honor so that his name & spirit could live on. Kody's Fund is a non-profit organization set up to fund spay and neuter programs. Ten percent of Earth dog profits goes towards this program. Remember: Over 20 million animals are put to sleep each year because there are not enough homes for them. Please spay or neuter your pets, and keep an ID tag on them with current contact information.
Earth dog is not only leaving a positive paw print on the world but also is doing their part to tread lightly on the earth. Along with the usual conservation efforts (using compact fluorescent light bulbs, recycling etc) they have offset their carbon emissions for the year by purchasing a business terrapass which reduces carbon emissions by funding clean energy and efficiency projects. They believe a clean energy future is possible.
Dave & Kym have even gone the extra mile toward lessening their impact by taking a classic 1978 diesel Mercedes and turning it into the earth dog veggie mobile. Just, add a greasercar kit and a tank of vegetable oil and you end up with a vehicle that emits no pollutants cost pennies to drive and smell like anything from doughnuts to egg rolls.