FoodScience acquires pet care player Natural Dog Company
The Morgan Stanley-owned supplement player wants to tap further into the pet space.
Almost 2 decades after it was founded, North Carolina-based Natural Dog Company is starting the next stage of its journey as part of a firm owned by a Wall Street titan.
FoodScience LLC, which became part of Morgan Stanley Capital Partners (MSCP) in November 2024, is adding Natural Dog to its existing pet brands, Pet Naturals and VetriScience Laboratories, along with a private label offering. The firm also has 2 human-related brands.
“This acquisition represents an important step in our growth journey and expands our presence in pet wellness and supplements,” says Sharon Rossi, CEO of FoodScience.
The company has over 50 years of experience in the nutritional supplement industry for both the pet and human markets, and the business has ambitious plans to expand in the pet care industry.
Natural progression
“Natural Dog brings a highly respected brand that aligns with our values and long-standing commitment to quality and innovation. Together, we’ll continue delivering trusted solutions for pets and the people who care for them,” adds Rossi.
Natural Dog Company was founded in 2006 by entrepreneur Elice Davis, who was diagnosed with a debilitating illness and chose to seek holistic alternatives to prescribed medication. She trained as an herbalist and nutritionist, which led her to extend her focus on natural and holistic living to her dogs.
Looking for the right partner
Davis stepped down as CEO in 2018 when Elements Brands acquired the company. That company’s founder, Bill D’Allesandro, became CEO of Natural Dog Company, which has operated as a standalone company until now.
“We weren’t looking for just any buyer—we were looking for the right partner. FoodScience shares our obsession with product quality, our passion for pet wellness and our belief in doing things the right way,” explains D’Allesandro.
“They’ve built trust with customers for over 50 years and have deep expertise in areas that will help Natural Dog grow even stronger. I’m incredibly excited for what we are going to build together – and for all the good we’ll continue to do for dogs and their humans.”
D’Allesandro is remaining with FoodScience as Vice President of Corporate Development for its combined platform. While the Natural Dog acquisition is the company’s first under MSCP, he made it clear it’s unlikely to be its last.
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