Irish-made Harley & Marley is the healthy and sustainable new seafood pick for pets
Little did they know, when taking their owners for a walk on Killiney beach in Dublin during lockdown, that adored family pets, Harley & Marley, were to inspire a new departure in Irish-made petfood, that is naturally brimming with functional health benefits.
Roll on 2024 and Harley & Marley’s business is in full swing! The Irish petfood company, with a difference, produces healthy fish-based super premium dogfood and treats, and two varieties of fishy cat treats, with cat food coming later this year.
Knowing fish is an important source of essential nutrients for healthy human hearts and brains, founder, Portia Quinn from Dublin, (mum to fur-baby Marley), researched how diet affects pets’ health. She found that as so many dogs suffer with obesity, arthritis and joint issues like hip dysplasia, they could all benefit greatly from high-quality protein and nutrients, in the same way that good nutrition positively impacts human health.
The extra-healthy, 100% natural, fish-based food contains high-quality protein, Omega oils and essential nutrients like Vitamin D and selenium. The range includes grain-free dry complete food recipes for puppies, adult dogs, small and large breeds, ‘seniors’ and dogs needing weight management.
Working with fellow dog-lover, John Kenny of Atlantis Seafoods in Kilmore Quay, the Harley & Marley founder researched and experimented with animal nutritionists, to create a range of delicious treats and pet food, bursting with natural goodness. Bord Iascaigh Mhara also supported with technical expertise and business advice.
The Irish range, formulated by animal nutritionists, provides a balanced and nourishing diet for optimal canine health and vitality, Portia Quinn explains.
“Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fish promotes healthy joints and skin, and a shiny coat. It supports cognitive function, keeping dogs mobile and sharp. And, importantly, dogs like the rich taste and aroma of fish, which appeals to their natural instincts”.
Harley & Marley food is easily digestible and gentle on sensitive stomachs, for a wholesome alternative to traditional red meat diets. It is ideal for dogs with sensitivity or allergies to other protein sources, the petfood company owner says.
“A surprisingly high number of pet parents tell us their dogs suffer from allergies, particularly to chicken. Feeding your fur baby a purely fish-based diet is a balanced, sustainable choice that supports their long-term health, while satisfying their taste buds”.
Saving Surplus Fish Waste
The Harley & Marley freshly prepared fish content comes from Atlantis Seafoods, whose founder, John Kenny, is serious about sustainability, tracing fish stocks back to individual boats and skippers. Producing Harley & Marley reduces food waste and contributes to the circular economy, John Kenny says.
“Surplus fish offcuts, that are perfectly good for human consumption, are used in the pet food. We normally waste around 50 tonnes a week of seafood. Producing Harley & Marley food and treats reduces waste by 95%, which means a sustainable, complementary business link for Atlantis and Harley & Marley.”
Portia Quinn says it was a eureka moment when she realised that the unique petfood idea satisfies a love of Ireland and Irish enterprise, is good for sustainability and for the planet, and, ultimately, is a tasty and uber-healthy choice for much-loved pets.
“We use planet-loving protein, brimming with natural goodness from the sea, that would otherwise go to waste. It makes fishing more sustainable, and our clean ingredients need minimal processing, so pets get maximum health benefits, nutrition, and delicious natural flavours.”
Very simply, the range reduces unnecessary waste and gives back to the Irish economy, Portia Quinn says of the business with Atlantis Seafoods.
Having established the very positive impacts of petfood produced from fish, the brand ambition for Harley & Marley is to be a global leader in marine-based food for pets, and an advocate for reducing surplus seafood waste.
Harley & Marley packaging is resealable and recyclable, and the complete range of a dozen varieties is available online and in stores countrywide.
Stockists of the healthy Irish petfood range are listed on the Harley & Marley website and include speciality pet stores and selected Dunnes Stores and SuperValu supermarkets. Regular instore promotions to win product are staged, and there are sampling stands to showcase the product range and provide nutritional information.
https://www.harleyandmarley.com/stockists
From May, the new Irish brand will be represented at international trade fairs, including Interzoo 2024, in Nuremberg, and later in the month at Ireland’s Dogitude Festival at Causey Farm in County Meath.
