Is Shameless Pets ethical?

Overview

Shameless Pets is a US-based pet treat brand founded in 2017, known for turning rescued and upcycled ingredients into nutritious, grain-free dog and cat treats. Their flagship product, the Soft Baked Dog Treats in Grain-Free Wild-Caught Salmon, scores an exceptional ethics rating of 88/100 on our platform. The brand is committed to reducing food waste, supporting regenerative agriculture, and maintaining transparent supply chains. With certifications from B Corp, Leaping Bunny, and PETA Approved, Shameless Pets sets a high bar for ethical pet food production.

Certifications

Shameless Pets holds three major certifications that verify its ethical practices. B Corp certification (since 2020) confirms the company meets rigorous social and environmental performance standards, accountability, and transparency. Leaping Bunny certification ensures no animal testing is conducted at any stage of product development. PETA Approved status further confirms the brand’s commitment to cruelty-free manufacturing. These certifications are independently audited and renewed periodically, providing consumers with reliable third-party validation.

Animal testing & vegan range

Shameless Pets explicitly states that none of their products or ingredients are tested on animals, aligning with both Leaping Bunny and PETA standards. The brand does not currently offer a vegan product range, as all treats are made with animal-based proteins like salmon, chicken, or beef. However, they use upcycled and rescued ingredients (e.g., imperfect vegetables, fish skins) that would otherwise go to waste, which partially offsets the environmental impact of animal agriculture.

Sustainability pledges

Shameless Pets has a strong sustainability framework: they source 100% of their salmon from wild-caught, sustainable fisheries (certified by the Marine Stewardship Council where applicable), and over 90% of their treat ingredients are upcycled or rescued. The company partners with food banks and farms to divert surplus produce from landfills. Their packaging is made from recyclable materials, and they offset carbon emissions through verified carbon credits. Shameless Pets also publishes annual impact reports detailing progress toward zero-waste goals.

Sourcing & labor

All ingredients are sourced from US and Canadian suppliers approved by the USDA and FDA. The salmon is wild-caught in Alaska and Canada, adhering to strict quotas and sustainable fishing practices. For labor, Shameless Pets requires all suppliers to comply with Fair Trade labor standards, including safe working conditions, fair wages, and no child labor. The company also supports local communities through donations to animal rescue organizations and food banks, with over 1 million meals donated to shelter pets annually.

Controversies context

Shameless Pets has no record of major controversies, lawsuits, or public scandals. Consumer reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with the only minor criticisms relating to price (premium positioning) or occasional packaging issues. The brand actively engages with its community on social media and responds transparently to customer inquiries. Their B Corp profile shows no negative incidents, and watchdog groups like PETA and Leaping Bunny have never flagged them for non-compliance.

Bottom line

Shameless Pets is a top-tier ethical choice for pet owners seeking treats that are both nutritious and environmentally responsible. With impeccable certifications, a strong anti-testing stance, and a commitment to upcycling and sustainability, the brand earns an ethics score of 88/100. It is ideal for consumers who prioritize animal welfare, climate action, and transparent business practices. While not vegan, the brand’s efforts to reduce waste and support ethical sourcing make it a standout in the pet food industry.