Keri Gray and her husband, Brian, had been operating Shades of Gray Rabbitry successfully for years when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Like so many companies in the food and agricultural industry, Keri had to act quickly and get creative if she wanted the business to survive. With restaurants, butcher shops, and markets closed, Keri decided to try a new direction for the rabbit farm: pet treats.
She already had expertise in sustainable farming and a love of animals under her belt, and with the addition of a women’s entrepreneurship grant, Keri set to work founding a new business that would work in symbiosis with the rabbit farm. Enter Shades of Gray Indigenous Pet Treats, born in 2019 with the aim of crafting nutritious, natural, culturally inspired treats of the highest quality using methods that honour Indigenous traditions, including promoting sustainability and animal welfare.
The Growth of Shades of Gray Indigenous Pet Treats, from Humble Beginnings to National Visibility
Shades of Gray Indigenous Pet Treats started with just rabbit, and over the years they have expanded to include different types of treats with multiple textures and other local/Canadian ingredients, including beaver, elk, venison, and bison. Today, their product line includes Indigenous Strips, crunchy biscuits, rolls, toppers, and more. The novel proteins and single- or minimal-ingredient treats are even ideal for dogs with allergies and sensitivities.
And just as they’ve added new products to their lineup, so too have they reached beyond their local community, establishing partnerships with retailers and online platforms to make their treats accessible to pet parents nationwide. For the future, they’ve set their sights on even greater expansion, but they remain true to their roots and are committed to reducing their carbon footprint, empowering Indigenous voices, and supporting initiatives that celebrate and preserve Indigenous culture. As a member of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan, it’s important to Keri to continue upholding Indigenous values while also doing what she loves:
“In our farm business, I cherish the connection to the land and the animals we raise. It’s a way of life rooted in tradition, hard work, and a deep respect for nature. With Shades of Gray Indigenous Pet Treats, I find joy in creating products that contribute to the health and happiness of pets while honouring Indigenous culture.”
Visit Shades of Gray Indigenous Pet Treats to learn more.
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