In 2020, Ryan Black and Chris Lee co-founded Buddy Bites, a pet food startup born out of a shared love for animals and a simple, yet powerful, business idea: for every 2kg of dog food sold, the company donates 1kg to dog shelters. Four years later, Buddy Bites is feeding dogs in seven shelters across Hong Kong and has expanded its support to Singapore.
The Birth of Buddy Bites
The idea for Buddy Bites came unexpectedly during a casual dinner at Chris Lee’s house in February 2020. With two large dogs, Nacho and Nala, Lee had 20kg of dog food in a corner of his house. When Black asked why he chose that brand, Lee couldn’t provide a clear answer. This sparked a deep discussion that lasted all night, delving into the pet food industry, consumer habits, and the potential to make a positive impact.
This conversation led to the creation of Buddy Bites, a company with a mission to support dog shelters in Asia. The startup’s unique model of donating dog food directly aligns with the founders’ commitment to animal welfare.
Supporting Dog Shelters in Challenging Times
Running a dog shelter in Hong Kong has become increasingly difficult, especially during the pandemic. Many shelters, such as Team for Animals in Lantau South and Sai Kung Stray Friends Foundation, faced the risk of closure due to declining adoption rates and financial strain.
Black highlights that vet bills constitute the largest expense for shelters, followed by food costs, which can range from HK$50,000 (US$6,412) to HK$150,000 (US$19,238) per month. The average shelter housing around 100 dogs spends at least HK$50,000 monthly, funds that could be better utilized for veterinary care, staff salaries, or other essential needs.
Buddy Bites has stepped in to alleviate some of this burden by providing free food to seven shelters in Hong Kong, including Catherine’s Puppy and Paws Guardian Rescue Shelter. The startup has also extended its reach to shelters in Singapore, furthering its impact in the region.
A Partnership Built on Friendship and a Shared Vision
Ryan Black and Chris Lee’s partnership is rooted in a supportive friendship and a shared dedication to animal welfare. Their strong co-founder dynamics have been instrumental in navigating the challenges of building a socially responsible business. As Buddy Bites continues to grow, the duo remains committed to their mission of feeding all sheltered dogs in Asia.
On International Dog Day, as we celebrate our furry companions, Black reflects on the journey that Buddy Bites has taken. His leadership and the unwavering support from his co-founder, Lee, have made it possible to provide essential resources to dog shelters, ensuring that more animals receive the care and nourishment they need.
Buddy Bites is not just a pet food company; it’s a testament to the power of friendship, passion, and a shared vision for making the world a better place for dogs.
