Joe Markham uses PetKORE to extend his KONG legacy

Joe Markham, the founder of KONG, is using a new Pet Age Q&A to introduce the next chapter of his career: PetKORE, a brand focused on enrichment toys and grooming products for what he sees as underserved segments, including large-breed dogs, horses, and zoo animals. Pet Age has previously reported that PetKORE’s initial lineup centers on U.S.-made, natural-rubber enrichment products and grooming tools, and that Markham has positioned the company around safety, durability, and species-specific design. PetKORE’s own site says Markham holds more than 70 pet-product patents and founded KORE Specialty Products after stepping back from KONG. (petage.com)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals, Markham’s reemergence is notable less as a personality profile and more as a signal about where the enrichment market is moving. PetKORE is targeting categories that often get less product innovation, especially larger dogs and nontraditional companion-animal segments, while emphasizing toy safety features such as airflow channels, grip grooves, and materials intended to reduce tooth damage or choking risk. That aligns with a broader clinical focus on behavior, stress reduction, safe chewing, and practical enrichment that veterinarians increasingly discuss with pet parents. (petage.com)

What to watch: Watch for whether PetKORE gains broader veterinary and retail traction as Coastal Pet deepens its early-2025 partnership with Markham’s new brand and as the company expands beyond dogs into equine and zoo enrichment. (petage.com)