Pet Advocacy Network honors leaders in pet care

The Pet Advocacy Network (PAN) recognized six honorees for their leadership in pet care, advocacy, and industry innovation during its annual meeting on March 25 in Orlando, Florida, U.S. The awards highlight efforts to support responsible pet ownership, animal health, and public policy engagement.

“We’re proud to celebrate these inspiring leaders and organizations making invaluable contributions to the responsible pet care community,” said Mike Bober, president and CEO of PAN. “Their exceptional dedication has helped improve the lives of pets, their owners, and the businesses that serve them.”

• Nancy G. Knutson Lifetime Achievement Award: Svein Fossa – A global advocate for responsible pet ownership, Fossa has worked in pet industry leadership for over five decades, supporting international collaboration on pet trade policies.
• Allan L. Levey Chair’s Award of Excellence: Jesse Forquer – As president of the Iowa Pet Breeders Association, Forquer works to promote responsible breeding practices and advocate for breeders in public policy discussions.
• Ambassador of the Year: Joe Hiduke – Chewy’s aquatics category manager, Hiduke has been a vocal supporter of PAN’s government affairs work and serves as co-chair of the organization’s Aquatics Committee.
• Pet Advocate of the Year: Judy Breton and the World Alliance of Grooming Associations (WAGA) – Breton led the launch of WAGA, uniting grooming associations worldwide and advocating for professional standards and education in pet grooming.
• Pet Care Community Leaders of the Year: The Healthy Trade Institute – This nonprofit promotes ethical amphibian trade practices and disease prevention, with a herp adoption program set to launch in May 2025.
• Power of Pets Award: Nulo Foods – The company’s "Fuel Incredible" campaign, featuring Olympic athletes and their pets, highlighted the human-animal bond on an international stage.

Adapted from a press release.