What World Oceans Day means to us

To us, World Oceans Day is more than just one day, it's every day. Sustainable, eco-friendly business is always a community effort, day in and day out. Especially in New England, where so much depends on proactively preserving our beautiful, healthy ocean.

Our Polkadog kitchen is in the heart of Boston, at Boston’s Fish Pier on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean.  Our neighborhood is a community of fishing families and fish processors, where fishing boats are as common as cars.  Boston’s industry is tied to the sea, and our fishing community is older than the United States. In fact, Gloucester was founded in 1623. It’s known as the oldest fishing port in the United States. New Bedford is an integral part of the global seafood supply chain. It ranks as the highest economic fishing port in the United States.

These fishing families and communities are the true stewards of our oceans.

If you want to understand why Polkadog spends so much time researching new, sustainable ingredients, start by considering how climate change and warming ocean waters impact the lives of those who work in New England’s fishing neighborhoods.

Over the last twenty-five years, erratic changes in atmospheric pressure (North Atlantic oscillation), shifting ocean currents, and rising sea temperatures have had a huge impact on the New England fishing industries.  Studies show the gulf water north of Cape Cod has warmed faster than 99% of the global ocean.  Native cod, haddock, and lobster populations have rapidly migrated away from their natural coastal regions in search of colder water, and the fishing industry was hit hard; local fishing communities are fighting for their lives.  In some New England communities, workers lost on average 35% of their paychecks, and more than 15% of the workers lost their jobs.

To survive, the fishing community is searching for a better understanding of sustainability. The process of reconsidering their relationship to the ocean’s resources has led to different, more diverse relationships with businesses in adjacent industries.

So… why fish for dogs? Fish is a healthy, hypoallergenic protein source for dogs. It is easily digestible and relatively low in saturated fats. Fish is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids which help reduce inflammation and support healthy skin and coat. Omega-3 fatty acids also provide the rich polyunsaturated fats essential for a well-balanced diet, help your dog absorb vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, promote neural development and health in dogs, and SO much more.

Our Cod Skins are loved by pups and pet parents around the globe and for good reason. Cod is a lean protein, and lean protein is great for building and maintaining muscle, but low in saturated fats and calories. Polkadog Cod Skins are the perfect treat for dogs trying to maintain a healthy weight. Not only do dogs LOVE the CRUNCH of our Cod Skins, the crunchy texture helps remove plaque and tarter from dogs' teeth. This is treating you can feel good about, over and over again.

To celebrate World Oceans Day, we’re giving you 10% off all of our thoughtfully and sustainably-sourced seafood treats and 10% to The Surfrider Foundation with code WOD2023 through 6/11/23. The Surfrider Foundation is dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s ocean, waves and beaches, for all people, through a powerful activist network. Together, we can make waves. #YouAreWhatYouTreat

Shop our World Oceans Day collection HERE!