OUR FOUNDER:
DR. PETE VANVRANKEN
As a vet of over 50 years, Dr. Pete has what he calls “the privilege and duty” to help animals lead their best lives. Ask him his favorite part of the job and he’ll tell you it’s two-fold - partnering with his clients to solve their pets’ health challenges and striving to provide those same pets with long, healthy lives. Dig a little deeper and inquire as to what specifically he does (and loves to do)? His answer will be a quick and emphatic, “I figure sh*t out.” It’s that attitude combined with his passionate love for his family dog, Cookie, that lead to the creation of Voyager Dog Food, a clean and complete family of diets with no chelated copper, that provides complete healthy nutrition for the life of every dog.
"True to my oath as a vet, I am committed to leaving the industry better than I found it. I will do this by championing for our dogs and disrupting a dog food market that can’t seem to do the right thing for the loyal companions that rely on it."
-Dr. Pete
VOYAGER DOG FOOD COMPANY: THE MOVEMENT
Voyager Dog Food Company was founded by Dr. Pete VanVranken in direct response to the health issues he was encountering daily in the dogs he was treating. A practicing veterinarian of over 48 years, Dr. Pete has one philosophy; treat the treatable, prevent the preventable. Voyager firmly believes that feeding our dogs quality, safe food can enhance not only their daily health but their overall longevity, which is why Voyager is everything that most other dog foods are not: fresh and nutritious, small batch dog food, devoid of harmful chelated copper. We proudly offer you what every dog deserves, patented clean and complete recipes, created by a veterinarian, a food scientist and a PHD nutritionist — high quality complete food for a lifetime of adventures.
COOKIE - THE INSPIRATION
“Our dog Cookie was a true gem and a treasured member of our family. Unfortunately, we lost her senselessly to a disease that I discovered is very preventable; copper storage disease. My response to this newly discovered knowledge was a solution — in Cookie’s honor. I formulated a dog food to sell to my clients so their dogs could live their best lives. Voyager is everything that most other dog foods are not — a small batch dog food that is fresh, nutritious, and devoid of the harmful effects of chelated copper — the single ingredient in other dog foods that took Cookie from us.” - Dr. Pete
HEAR OUR STORY.
MEET OUR TEAM
Dr. Pete VanVranken
Co-FounderA practicing Veterinarian for over 50 years, Dr. Pete loves classic cars, is a huge Michigan State fan and loves his career as a vet. He brings the same amount of care and passion to every client he meets. For him it’s all about what’s best for the animals.
Tim Vande Giessen
Co-FounderA passionate, fun-loving guy specializing in animal and food sciences. In his career, Tim has worked for the top CPG companies, started businesses and holds multiple patents. When not conquering the dog food world, he enjoys fishing, hunting, and adventuring with his Brittany, Macey.
Molly VanVranken
Director of Marketing & SalesA lifetime of watching her father combine science with his passionate care for animals in the family veterinarian clinic has fostered a deep love of dogs in Molly. Watch for her and her dog Sage on the Voyager road show when it comes to your area. Molly is a proud graduate of Northern Michigan University.
Ben Dowdy
Director of Operations ManagementBen is the operational backbone of Voyager—overseeing everything from supply chain and finance to fulfillment and customer service. A graduate of Northern Michigan University, he brings a rare combination of work ethic, heart, and hands-on leadership to the business. Whether he’s managing the warehouse or improving our financial systems, Ben treats every customer like they’re our only one. Outside of work, you’ll find him on the golf course with his wife, Natalie, or in the field with his yellow lab, Duke—his inspiration for building a better pet food company.
Celia Van Beck
Customer Service ManagerCelia is a dedicated Customer Service Manager who brings warmth and professionalism to every interaction. A proud graduate of KVCC, she’s passionate about providing exceptional support and ensuring each customer feels valued and heard. Outside of work, Celia enjoys being outdoors, enjoying quality time with friends and family. Her genuine kindness and enthusiasm leave lasting impressions on our customers, making them feel like a member of the voyager family.
Bryce Wolfersberger
Warehouse SpecialistBryce Wolfersberger is a reliable Warehouse Specialist dedicated to ensuring every order is packaged with care and shipped out on time. His attention to detail helps keep operations running smoothly and customers satisfied. Outside of work, Bryce loves the thrill of riding his motorcycle at high speeds, embracing the freedom and adrenaline of the open road. His commitment and passion make him a valued member of the team.
Jake Emery
Warehouse SpecialistJake Emery is a dedicated Warehouse Specialist known for his meticulous attention to detail and commitment to timely order fulfillment. He takes pride in packaging dog food with care and precision, ensuring every product reaches customers in perfect condition. Outside of work, Jake enjoys playing musical instruments, bringing his passion for music into his daily life. His hardworking attitude and love for his craft make him an essential part of the team.
Try one of our wholesome recipes today!
