Dog Treat Store Employing People with Disabilities to Open in Allegan

A dog treat store that employees people with developmental and intellectual disabilities is opening in Allegan this summer.

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The Grand Rapids Business Journal reports that Beyond Bones is opening up a storefront at 219 Hubbard St., Suite A, in Allegan. It is next door to The Arc of Allegan County, the organization that launched the business in 2021.

Since 1956, The Arc has advocated for the inclusion and dignity of individuals with disabilities. The organization began Beyond Bones in response to limited employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Beyond Bones sells all-natural, handmade dog treats. The treats are made and packaged in kitchens at two area churches.

Stacy Engelsman, Executive Director of The Arc, said in a release,

The creation of Beyond Bones has been a labor of love for The Arc, its Board of Directors, and our dedicated volunteers. Seeing the sense of accomplishment and pride on our employees’ faces is as rewarding as knowing they are earning fair pay while engaging meaningfully in the community.

Since last year, Beyond Bones products have been sold at vendor fairs, farmers’ markets, online, and The Arc office. Currently, treats can be ordered from their online bARC Shop, purchased in-person at The Arc’s office, or from one of their 14 local retail partners.

I think this is awesome too: For anyone who has lost a pet, or would like to buy a bag of treats for a dog in need, Beyond Bones offers Memorial Purchases. Their bakers will deliver the treats you purchase to dogs at the Allegan County Animal Shelter.

The new store will sell Beyond Bones’ handmade dog treats and other pet-focused products. Additional positions for individuals with disabilities will be created within the store.

The Arc and Beyond Bones plan to open the new retail space in June. They say an official opening date will be announced as renovations progress. For updates Follow Beyond Bones on Facebook.