The story of Pan-tenex® is deeply personal and began decades before the product ever existed. It started in the 1970s in Northern New Jersey, where our founder grew up in a household full of love for both dogs and cats, especially German Shepherds. One German Shepherd named Duke held a special place in his heart. As a child, he and Duke were inseparable.
Around age five or six, Duke began to lose weight despite eating normally. No local veterinarian could explain why. After a long and determined search, his parents finally found a veterinarian who diagnosed Duke with an enzyme deficiency. At that time, there were no effective enzyme supplements for dogs, and the best recommendation was a more natural diet. Though it helped temporarily, Duke continued to decline in weight and some two years later he had to be euthanized by his family. This loss left a lasting and emotional impact on the young boy and would later become a driving force in his life’s work.
Years later, after graduating college, he began a successful career in the Pharmaceutical and Pet Supplement Industries, specializing in sourcing high-quality raw materials, including enzymes. In 2005, he founded his own distribution firm, which became a major U.S. supplier of enzymes and other ingredients for human and pet nutrition products.
Then, in 2012, an event occurred that would change everything. He visited the headquarters of one of the leading canine enzyme brands in the U.S. and offered to supply them with a higher-quality enzyme at a lower cost. One that would have improved their product while making it more affordable for dog owners. Their Director of Manufacturing dismissed the offer, saying, “Don’t call us, we’ll call you.” That comment by this executive became a turning point.
Instead of walking away, he decided to take action. Drawing on many years of experience in product development and driven by the memory of Duke, he committed to developing their own canine enzyme supplement. One that would be more potent, more affordable, and more effective than many other products on the market.
In 2014, Pan-tenex® was born. Sold under our parent company, AVF, LLC, Pan-tenex® has since helped many tens of thousands of dogs and cats across the U.S., Canada & EU, providing a trusted, affordable, and high-quality digestive supplement.
As we approach our 10-year anniversary at the end of 2025, our mission remains focused on providing high quality, effective, and affordable digestive support for dogs and cats.
Looking ahead to 2026, we are excited to announce the upcoming launch of a new joint health and mobility supplement for both dogs and cats.
Stay tuned for updates as we continue expanding our commitment to pet wellness.
Duke circa early 1970s
