Why a Marketing Exec Overseeing Million-Dollar Budgets Left Her High-Power Job to Make Organic Dog Treats

**The Heartfelt Journey of Sarah Goldberger and Lord Jameson**

In the world of pet care, Sarah Goldberger has carved a niche with her innovative brand, Lord Jameson, which specializes in organic, plant-based dog treats. This venture traces its origins to a deep bond with her cocker spaniel, also named Lord Jameson, who, in many ways, transformed her life.

Goldberger, a former Vice President of Marketing at Swatch Group, had found success in a high-pressure environment, managing substantial budgets and collaborating with well-known personalities. However, it was not her corporate achievements that occupied her thoughts; it was the health and wellbeing of her beloved dog.

She recalls her first encounter with Jameson, describing him as “my first baby.” The connection between them was immediate and profound. Goldberger soon recognised his unique ability to connect with people, which was evident when he instinctively gravitated toward individuals needing emotional support, such as her cousin diagnosed with cancer. “He would always go find the one person in the room that needed the most attention,” she reminisces.

Living in New York City, Goldberger and her husband enrolled Jameson in a therapy dog training course through the Good Dog Foundation. Upon qualification, Jameson began visiting hospitals, providing comfort to patients and bringing joy to children at cancer support centres. “To watch him impact the lives of strangers was amazing,” Goldberger recalls, reflecting on how Jameson’s empathetic nature left a mark on many.

As her attachment to Jameson grew, so did her concern regarding his diet. Goldberger had long prioritised organic eating for herself but realised that many dog treats were laden with unhealthy ingredients and preservatives. Recognising a gap in the market, she began to craft her own treats from whole-food, plant-based materials that were so pristine they could be consumed by humans.

Goldberger initially operated from her kitchen, producing small batches for friends and family. Their enthusiastic feedback encouraged her to approach local pet stores, where she demonstrated her treats and eventually secured consignment agreements. Pioneering the notion of health-focused dog snacks at a time when “plant-based” in pet food was a novel concept proved to be a challenge, but the response from dogs was overwhelmingly positive.

For several years, the company was an afterthought while Goldberger maintained her corporate career. However, by July 2021, she realized the potential of Lord Jameson and made the bold choice to pursue it full-time. Presently, the brand is thriving, with its products available in over 5,500 stores across the United States and international markets, including Canada, South Korea, and Taiwan. The significant decision to own her own manufacturing facility was a risk, but it allowed Goldberger to maintain stringent control over the quality of her products.

“We like to say we’ve completely re-imagined dog treats,” Goldberger asserts. She believes that her offerings are superior to many snacks available for children. She often jokes, “We all eat them. We eat them at trade shows when there’s nothing else to eat,” demonstrating both her confidence in the product and the high standards she has set.

Tragically, Goldberger’s journey took a dark turn when Jameson succumbed to cancer three years ago. The loss profoundly affected her, making it difficult to return to the world of trade shows. “I’d be lying if I said I didn’t come mascara all over my face,” she admits, highlighting the emotional toll of his passing.

In honour of Jameson’s legacy, Goldberger welcomed a new cocker spaniel, Jasper, into her home. She describes him as a “very good boy” and her official treat tester. Yet, despite the new addition, the inspiration from her late dog remains a guiding force in her life and her business.

“Everything we do now is really to honour Lord Jameson and to keep that connection alive,” Goldberger explains. Her commitment to creating treats that reflect the unconditional love, loyalty, and magic that dogs bring to our lives is evident in every aspect of her brand.

Through Lord Jameson, Goldberger not only preserves the memory of her cherished companion but also fosters a deeper connection among pet owners and their furry friends, reinforcing the profound bond that exists between humans and dogs.