Kookeez switches to extra virgin olive oil

Kookeez, an Alberta dog-treat business, said in a recent social-media post that it has switched to extra virgin olive oil in its homemade treats and framed the change as a health-focused upgrade. The company paired the ingredient update with a personal note from founder Betty Sheppard, who said a broken kneecap had not stopped production. The post also highlighted vegetarian options and directed customers to local buying points in Alberta. Kookeez’s website says the company is based in Edmonton and sells small-batch dog treats made with ingredients including whole wheat flour, oats, pumpkin, peanut butter and honey. ### Why did Kookeez single out olive oil? Kookeez said the new recipes use extra virgin olive oil, describing the switch as part of an effort to make its dog treats “even healthier” for pets. A recent Kookeez video post used similar language, saying the treats are made healthier with “cold pressed, extra virgin olive oil.” Extra virgin olive oil is a recognizable ingredient for pet owners because it is less processed than refined olive oil. Secondary pet-nutrition sites say dogs can consume olive oil in moderation, though they also say owners should consider a dog’s individual health needs and consult a veterinarian before adding it regularly. ### Who is behind the brand, and what did the post emphasize? (tiktok.com) Made in Alberta’s company listing identifies Betty Sheppard as the founder of Kookeez Dog Treats Inc. and says the business grew out of her effort to make “wholesome, human-grade treats” for her rescue dogs. The same listing says the company operates in Edmonton, Alberta. The social-media message did more than announce an ingredient change. (dogster.com) Sheppard also said she was continuing to bake despite a broken kneecap, combining a product update with a personal production note. That kind of direct founder-led messaging is consistent with how Kookeez presents itself online, where the company stresses handmade batches, hand-cut treats and local production. ### What products does Kookeez already say it sells? (madeinalberta.co) Kookeez’s website says its treats are made in small batches and marketed as canine-safe recipes without harmful fillers. The site says the company offers classic and gluten-free options. A separate Alberta marketplace listing says Kookeez sells all-natural dog treats and identifies flavours including peanut butter, pumpkin and oatmeal cookie. That listing also says the company makes its products in Alberta. (kookeez.ca) ### Where can customers buy them in Alberta? Kookeez’s website says the brand is “Proudly Canadian” and “Born in Edmonton, AB.” The site says customers can buy online directly from the company. (kookeez.ca) Third-party Alberta listings point to physical retail availability as well. Made in Alberta says Kookeez products are available through the Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market, while another recent Kookeez video directed shoppers to Row 9 at that market. (madeinca.ca) Made in CA also lists Makers in Southgate Mall in Edmonton as a retail outlet. ### What comes next for the company? (kookeez.ca) Kookeez is already using the olive-oil change in current marketing, based on the recent social posts and video promotion tied to Edmonton-area sales points. The company’s website continues to advertise online ordering, and Alberta marketplace listings continue to point shoppers to Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market and Makers in Southgate Mall. (tiktok.com) (madeinalberta.co)