How Trump’s Tariffs Could Endanger a Colorado Pet Food Company’s Future: Owner’s Concerns

Jeremy Petersen, a resident of Windsor, has built his identity around selling high-quality pet food through his company, Identity Pet Nutrition. But new tariffs that kicked in recently are making him anxious about his business costs.

“We’ve always been a country that supports small businesses,” Petersen said. He founded Identity Pet Nutrition in 2018. His Colorado-based company sources its ingredients from local Canadian farmers. These farmers provide food that is free of hormones, antibiotics, and GMOs, ensuring high-quality nutrition for pets.

With the recent 25% tariff on Canadian imports imposed by the Trump Administration, Petersen is worried about how the increased costs will affect his business. “We can’t absorb these costs as a small business. We have to pass them on to consumers, which means prices could double,” he explained.

This situation impacts not just Petersen’s company but also pet owners who shop at local stores like Mouthfuls, which carries many Canadian brands. “All our products are going to be affected in some way. Many of the bags and ingredients come from Canada,” Petersen noted.

He’s concerned that customers might struggle to afford the higher prices. There’s also the worry that Canadian suppliers may reconsider their partnerships if the tariffs continue. “I love pets and want to provide the best for them,” Petersen said, emphasizing his commitment to quality and family.

Despite the challenges, he is determined to fight for his business and hopes other small business owners will join him in urging the administration to find a better solution that doesn’t rely on tariffs. “I’m not giving up,” he declared.

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