Annamaet Petfoods Celebrates 40 Years!

Annamaet Petfoods Inc., has been dedicated to advancing pet nutrition through science and sustainability since 1986.  Annamaet is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2026 with a yearlong initiative to give back to the pet community. To mark this milestone, Annamaet will donate 40,000 meals to dogs and cats in need through charitable partners over the course of the year.

“Celebrating 40 years is incredibly meaningful for our family and our team,” said Rob Downey, Founder & CEO of Annamaet Petfoods. “From the very beginning, our goal has been simple: to help pets live longer healthier lives through better nutrition. What makes this milestone even more special is the loyalty we’ve build along the way, like the very first customer who ever purchased a bag of Annamaet dog food still buys from us today. And, our first-ever distributor continues to carry our products today. Donating meals to pets in need felt like the most meaningful way to honor this incredible company milestone, and give back to the pet community that has supported us for four decades.”

Founded in 1986 by pet nutrition researcher and sled dog enthusiast, Downey and his wife Mary Jo, Annamaet has spent four decades developing premium nutrition for dogs and cats rooted in scientific research and real-world experience with canine athletes. The company’s first bag of pet food was sold on November 21, 1986, which happened to be founder Downey’s mother Anna Mae’s birthday, and the inspiration behind the company’s name.

Over the years, Annamaet has grown from a small family operation into a respected name in premium pet nutrition, distributing products throughout the United States and exporting internationally to over 15 countries. The company continues to formulate its foods with a focus on science-backed nutrition, quality ingredients and sustainability, including the use of responsibly sourced proteins, strict quality control standards and innovative ingredients such as marine microalgae oil as a sustainable source of Omega-3 fatty acids.

Alongside its premium food formulas, Annamaet also offers a comprehensive line of nutritional supplements designed to support joint health, digestive wellness and overall vitality, which is a testament to the company’s longstanding commitment to advancing pet health at every stage of life. Annamaet is certified by the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) which is the gold standard for animal supplements, and all Annamaet supplements carry the NASC quality seal.

“Each Annamaet formula reflects decades of nutritional research and hands-on experience working with high-performance sled dogs, helping shape diets designed to support optimal health, performance and longevity,” said Downey.

In addition to groundbreaking pet nutrition, Annamaet celebrates the personal journey of its founder, Downey, who published his memoir Until the Last Dog in 2024. The book recounts Downey’s decades of experience as a champion sled dog racer and the deep connection between his life, his dogs and the science‑based pet food company he built, offering readers an inspiring look at the heart behind Annamaet Petfoods.

Today, Annamaet offers a comprehensive portfolio of dog and cat foods, supplements and treats designed for pets at every life stage. The company continues to operate with the same core values that defined its earliest days: a commitment to pet wellness, environmental stewardship and family-driven leadership. 

“As we look ahead to the next chapter of Annamaet, our focus remains the same as it was in 1986,” added Downey. “We will continue to innovate, advance nutritional science and support pets and the people who love them.

“Annamaet has always been about family, science and a deep respect for the animals we care for,” said Alex Downey, Executive Vice President of Annamaet Petfoods. “Growing up in this company, I’ve seen firsthand the passion and dedication that goes into every formula we create. As we celebrate 40 years, donating 40,000 meals to pets in need is a meaningful way to honor our history while reinforcing our commitment to the health and well-being of pets everywhere.”