Revolutionary $35M Venture Fund Launched to Transform Pet Health and Wellness – Meet Ani.VC
In a significant move poised to revolutionize the pet industry, Ani.VC, an early-stage venture fund dedicated to pets, has officially launched. The fund kicks off with its inaugural investment in DOG PPL, a canine social club that has rapidly gained popularity and will soon expand to New York from its Los Angeles base. Ani.VC aims to invest $35 million over the next three years into companies across the United States, Europe, and Asia, focusing on the $540+ billion pet and animal health market.
Garri Zmudze, co-founder of Ani.VC, emphasized the fund's mission to enhance the lives of pets and their owners: “Our pets are part of the family. Since humans already have access to modern telemedicine and testing, wellbeing-oriented social clubs, and longevity-focused care, among other advancements, their animal family members should too. Alongside DOG PPL, the investments Ani.VC will make will meet this singular goal to elevate the lives of pets and pet parents. We look forward to pursuing the worthwhile cause of improving human and animal health.”
DOG PPL, the fund's first investment, exemplifies this mission. DOG PPL is a dog park-meets-social-club that prioritizes the health and wellbeing of both dogs and their owners. The club vets its canine members’ shot and vaccination status as well as temperament, ensuring a safe and enriching environment. The club's success in Los Angeles has paved the way for its upcoming New York opening, promising an exciting new venue for dog lovers.
“The DOG PPL team is thrilled to call Ani.VC our partner,” said Liam Underwood and Alexander Esguerra, co-founders of DOG PPL. “Our core focus is fostering enrichment and community between dogs and their owners, making Ani.VC an ideal partner for this mission. It was essential for us to align with a team that recognizes not only the immeasurable value our animals bring into our lives, but also our duty to give them the best life experiences possible.”
Ani.VC’s investments will target key market segments such as animal longevity, pet health, therapeutics and veterinary services, consumables, digital services and e-commerce, and animal health. Pet spending in the U.S. alone is predicted to grow to $195.6 billion by 2030, highlighting the immense potential and need for innovation in this sector.
The fund was founded in 2024 by veteran longevity and biotech investor Garri Zmudze and Warren Rickard, former Head of Strategy at Basepaws. It is advised by leading figures in animal health and longevity, including Dr. Matt Kaeberlein, a renowned animal aging researcher; Jay DeLong, co-founder of Active Capital and leader of Nestlé-Purina’s PetCare Innovation Prize; and veterinarian Caroline Heller, who serves as Rumin8’s Head of Animal Health Strategy & Business Development. Julie Liu also joins as a partner.
Ani.VC's launch marks a significant step forward in the pet health industry, reflecting a growing recognition of the importance of animal welfare and health. Through strategic investments and partnerships, Ani.VC is set to make a lasting impact on the lives of pets and their owners, fostering a healthier, happier future for all.
