Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 – October 15, to honor the cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.
Looking to support some Hispanic and Latino innovators in the pet world? Here are some of our favorites.
Alanna Rivera Studios
Fine art pet portraiture
Artist: Alanna Rivera
A fine artist based in Arlington, Va., Alanna Rivera creates striking custom pet portraits that bring her subjects to life.
To do this, Alanna uses gouache, an opaque kind of watercolor paint that allows her to create true-to-life expressions of any pet’s personality. She has a background in painting, illustration, and mural art, including an MFA from Maryland Institute College of Art, and she also hosts classes in the Washington D.C. area.
Get your custom work of art at alannarivera.com
Badass Balloon Co.
Pet party supplies
Founder: Desiree Ontiveros
Badass Balloon Co. founder Desiree Ontiveros took what she learned as a top fashion publicist and stylist to create a party brand with both bark and bite. Headquartered in the bon vivant city of New Orleans, her sassy party balloons add a dash of wit and quirkiness to any occasion.
Pet parents who wish to add a little pop to their party will love the black cat confetti and puppy party supply kits. And, because they’re made with real latex, these balloons are biodegradable. Cool!
Get the party started at badassballoonco.com
Nuggie PAW Shop
Sustainable pet accessories
EntrePAWneur: Silvia Baffone
Born from a paw-ssion for animals, the Nuggie PAW Shop makes stylish and eco-friendly accessories for both you and your pet.
Nuggie donates a portion of their profits to selected animal shelters, and they strive to grow hand-in-hand with their creative collaborators. We love their stylish and understated pet bandana collection.
Shop the latest looks at nuggiepawshop.com
Salvage Maria
Handcrafted pet beds and accessories
CEO: Janeesa Maria
Salvage Maria uses direct partnerships with artisans in Mexico to create cool, beautifully boho pet beds and accessories.
Inspired by her mother’s Zapoteca heritage, CEO Janessa Maria sources recycled and deadstock woven blankets to create colorful, one-of-a-kind accents that are carefully handmade from start to finish. A company that’s located in the heart of Venice Beach, Salvage Maria delivers beach vibes right to your doorstep.
Snuggle up to style at salvagemaria.com
Wag City Clothing
Pet attire
Founder: Rocio Alvarado
Wag City Clothing is a dog lifestyle brand that was started in 2017 by Rocio Alvarado. They take great pride in their products being ethically and sustainably made in Los Angeles by a minority-owned manufacturer.
Wag City focuses on producing high quality clothing that merges both fashion and function. Their brand values animals, people and the environment.
Shop the collection at wagcityclothing.com