Our Story
Doggy Dao & Cat's Meow is a nutrition focused pet store that offers all natural, holistic food, treats and supplements for cats and dogs. The store features a large selection of frozen raw foods made with hormone free meats, as well as freeze dried and dehydrated raw foods. In addition, the shop sells toys, leashes and collars with an emphasis on eco-friendly and USA made products.
Julie Van Vliet is the owner of Doggy Dao & Cat’s Meow. Her interest in pet nutrition stems from a unique and diverse background. Julie has always been an animal lover. As a child she rescued baby birds and bunnies and has shared her life with rabbits, parakeets, gerbils, hamsters, guinea pigs, ferrets, cats and, of course, dogs. Julie worked as Master Trainer for a service dog training school in Chadds Ford, PA from 1995 until she resigned in 2002 to start her own 501c3 organization, The Gift of Sunshine, Inc., training dogs for the disabled. In addition to her role as Master Trainer, she also worked as the veterinary liaison and resident kennel manager for the school’s 32 dogs. All of the dogs were obtained from rescues and shelters or were donated by breeders. As you might expect, many of the dogs were unable to complete the training program for behavioral reasons, as well as, health related conditions. Julie, of course, adopted many of the dogs with physical conditions such as hip dysplasia, Wobbler’s Disease, renal dysplasia and more. Determined to give them the best quality of life possible, she began researching healthier diet options, natural supplements and alternative healing modalities. This research included numerous consultations with conventional veterinary specialists and holistic practitioners alike. Additionally, she has worked in the veterinary field and was employed for 12 years as an Office Manager for a General Surgeon in Wilmington, DE.
Julie firmly believes that anyone who desires to make healthier choices for their dog or cat should be able to do so, regardless of their budget. The store offers a customer loyalty program, honors manufacturer’s frequent buyer programs and special discounts via social media. Doggy Dao & Cat’s Meow allows Julie to share her knowledge and experience, and help you make the best choices concerning the health and happiness of your beloved pet.
