MINNEAPOLIS — Project Hive Pet Company announced earlier this month it has made its official retail debut in 100 PetSmart stores across the United States. The company sells American-made dog treats and toys, and part of its core mission is saving the bees.

Through its partnership with 1% for the Planet and the Bee & Butterfly Habitat Fund, Project Hive Pet Company aims to establish and preserve wildflower habitats to sustain healthy bee populations. The company is also a member of the Pet Sustainability Coalition.

The company’s goal is to establish more than 1,000 acres of wildflower habitats over the next five years.

"Here at Project Hive Pet Company, we like to say, let's make our planet thrive – one happy dog and countless bees at a time," said Jim Schifman, co-founder of Project Hive Pet Company.

Schifman and his wife, Melissa Rappaport Schifman, founded the company with environmental sustainability in mind. Currently, they are working toward achieving certifications from Climate Neutral and B Corp.

Project Hive Pet Company’s dog treat and toy line is symbiotic, meaning many of the treats can be inserted into the toys for long-lasting playtime. The treats are vegetarian and Non-GMO Project Verified, made with organic honey and ground peanuts. They do not contain artificial flavors or colors, and are free from corn, wheat and soy.

The treat line includes Hive Chew Stick Treats for both small and large dogs, as well as beehive-shaped Hive Chew Treats for both small and large dogs, and honeycomb-shaped Hive Training Treats for all breeds.

According to the company, bees pollinate roughly one-third of the global food supply and can increase crop value by more than $15 billion.

Project Hive’s treats and toys can be purchased online through projecthivepetcompany.com, Amazon.com, Chewy.com and PetSmart.com, and are now available in 100 PetSmart stores nationwide.

Read more about sustainability in the pet food and treat industry.