OAK CREEK, WIS. — Stella & Chewy’s is hosting a giveaway on its Instagram profile to help dog owners celebrate Valentine’s Day with their furry companions. The premium pet food and treat manufacturer will be giving away boxes of limited-edition, heart-stamped dog biscuits called “Conversation Barks,” which come in a Valentine’s Day-themed box.

The giveaway began on Feb. 8. Dog owners on Instagram can follow Stella & Chewy’s at @stellaandchewys to enter in the giveaway.

"At Stella & Chewy's, we understand how much love a pet can bring to an individual or family," said Marie Moody, founder of Stella & Chewy's. "As pet adoptions continue to rise, and with 80% of pet parents likely to stay in for Valentine's Day this year, we are seeing that pets are now becoming a larger part of Valentine's Day celebrations. We hope our new Conversation Barks and custom valentines help inspire pet parents to do something special for their fur babies this year!"

According to a survey commissioned by Stella & Chewy’s, 64% of pet owners are interested in gifting their pet this year, a percentage that has doubled compared to previous years. Only 32% of pet owners reported gifting their pet for Valentine’s Day in years past.

The survey revealed pets are the third most popular recipients for Valentine’s Day gifts, only following significant others, and children or grandchildren. Stella & Chewy’s pointed out that this means pets are more likely to get a Valentine’s Day gift than most parents, friends or work colleagues.

Stella & Chewy’s also shared that 84% of survey respondents agreed that “seeing their pet’s enjoyment and excitement would make their holiday feel extra special,” and that 63% said it’s important that their pet feel loved on Valentine’s Day. Additionally, 55% of pet owners surveyed said they were interested in giving their dog “a pet equivalent” of their own favorite Valentine’s Day treat.

The survey was fielded Jan. 19 to 21 and included 1,074 pet-owning adults in the United States.

The Instagram campaign is part of Stella & Chewy’s partnership with Alex Morgan, a well-known member of the US Women’s National Soccer Team.

"My dogs Kona and Blue are such an important part of my life,” Morgan said. “I love being able to make them feel extra special on days like Valentine's Day by treating them to little gifts. They love Stella & Chewy's treats, including Conversation Barks, and seeing them happy brings me so much joy."

The treats included in Stella & Chewy’s Conversation Barks are beef flavored, freeze-dried raw-coated, baked biscuits.

Additionally, Instagram users can post a photo of their dog or cat, follow @stellaandchewys, and use the hashtag #LoveFromStella through Feb. 12 for the chance to win a customized valentine of their pet.

Stay up to date on news about the pet food processing industry on our News page.