2026 Pet Insight Vanguard Awards

Pet Insight recognizes leaders in various categories across the industry every year. They are pioneers of pet solutions that push the category. They are trailblazers of trust who pet parents choose again and again. They are innovators and catalysts who inspire new ways of thinking to overcome challenges. No matter what word you call them, we call them Vanguard Award recipients.

This year, we highlighted Oil-Dri, which invented lightweight litter and hasn’t stopped innovating since. They recently launched Cat’s Pride Health Monitor crystal litter, whose color changes to make it easier for cat owners to monitor pH changes and spot potential urinary health concerns. Laura Scheland, Vice President & General Manager, Consumer Products Division, said, “We successfully introduced new crystal litter products despite a turbulent freight environment. Recently, we have expanded our offerings by launching our new health-monitoring crystal litters under the Cat’s Pride, Ultra by Cat’s Pride, and Litter Pearls brands, featuring superior color-changing technology that helps provide early detection of potential urinary health issues along with powerful 30-day odor control.”

Another example of leadership, longevity and adding value to the industry is Nutripack, manufacturers of Evanger’s Dog and Cat Food products. Their limited-ingredient diets play a critical role for pets with allergies and sensitivities. “With over 90 years of heritage, we blend experience with continuous innovation, so we stay ahead of trends while staying true to our core values of quality, transparency, and care,” said Callie Sher, President of Nutripack.

“Pet owners love the versatility and trust they get with Evanger’s,” relayed Sher. “Our product assortment is uniquely diverse, offering solutions for virtually every need, from EVX formulas designed for dogs with digestive and health challenges to certified organic recipes to our classic heritage SKUs, where palatability and value are key. These lines continue to perform strongly for consumers, retailers, and distributors alike.”

During a year when rising costs put constraints on pet businesses and pet owners’ pockets, leaders did not slow down; instead, they looked within and refocused their efforts. Jolly Pets directed its momentum toward growing its product pipeline, strengthening retail partnerships, and expanding brand awareness. But their true north has always been—and will continue to be—pet owners and their pets. Louisa Marvin, Marketing Director of Jolly Pets, shared how their company stands out. “I believe what makes us different is that we don’t separate innovation from real-world use. Everything we do starts with the pet and the owner. What problem are we actually solving? Whether it’s durability for tough chewers or giving dogs a better outlet for energy, that’s always the starting point.” 

She continued, “At the same time, we’re very honest with ourselves operationally. We push to improve not just the product, but the entire experience of how it’s made, how it’s delivered, and how it holds up over time. That combination is what really sets us apart.”

Pet Insight congratulates all of the winners. We can’t wait to see how this year’s Vanguard Award recipients continue to shape the future of the pet industry in the years ahead.