A dog treat startup from Pennsylvania has partnered with Chicago’s largest no kill humane organization to provide free treats to dogs and cats in need.
Saint Rocco’s Treats was founded in 2020 by brothers Kolby and Kaleb Rush after being sent home from college during COVID.
They drew inspiration from the business of their dad and grandpa, and expanded upon their recipes, which they say include just seven restaurant-quality ingredients and no harmful preservatives.
This week the pair announced that they’ve partnered with PAWS Chicago as the organization’s primary Treat and Enrichment Sponsor. This means that Saint Rocco’s has committed to donating 1,000 pounds of dog treats over the next year.
They’ve already shipped over 150 pounds since August, according to a company statement.
Kolby Rush, the CEO, said “Dogs give us so much without asking for anything in return.” He added that “returning that love means more than making great treats.”
“It means standing behind the organizations doing the hard work every day to care for dogs in need. PAWS Chicago has transformed the lives of thousands of animals, and we’re incredibly proud to support their mission and help make every dog’s journey to a forever home a little brighter and a lot yummier.”
Since its founding in 1997, PAWS Chicago has become one of the nation’s leading animal welfare organizations, helping reduce homeless pet euthanasia in Chicago by 89%.
Today, PAWS continues to lead lifesaving efforts through adoption, foster care, veterinary medicine and community outreach. In 2025 alone, PAWS Chicago’s Lurie Clinic completed a record 21,327 spay/neuter surgeries, more than 1,400 foster families cared for 2,268 animals, volunteers contributed more than 125,000 hours of service, and 4,918 pets found loving homes through adoption.
“Positive reinforcement is essential to helping dogs feel safe, reduce stress and build confidence throughout their time in our care,” said Jordan Michaels, KPA CTP, PAWS Chicago’s Assistant Director of Animal Behavior.
He added that Saint Rocco’s is a “natural partner in our work” because of its “healthy, high-quality treats” that are handcrafted in the US.
“From training and enrichment to providing comfort during medical exams, these treats will help our behavior and veterinary teams meet each dog’s individual needs. We’re grateful to Saint Rocco’s for investing in our mission and helping us provide exceptional care for every dog we serve.”
According to the organization, Saint Rocco’s treats will help in a couple of areas.
First, at the PAWS Chicago Pippen Fasseas Adoption Center, treats will be incorporated into daily enrichment activities and positive reinforcement training to help dogs gain confidence, encourage desirable behaviors and prepare for life with their new families.
Second, at the PAWS Chicago Kocourek Medical Center, treats will be used during examinations, treatments and recovery to create calmer, less stressful experiences for animals receiving care.
The partnership will also extend into the community through sampling opportunities at PAWS Chicago adoption events and training classes, introducing more pet parents to Saint Rocco’s handcrafted treats while celebrating every adoption, the company said.
Planned activations include Angels with Tails adoption events in Roscoe Village, Barrington, Winnetka and Chicago’s Gold Coast, along with signature PAWS Chicago events including Big Love, Adopt-A-Thon and Clear the Shelters.
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