From Kitchen to Community: The Story Behind Bender’s Bakery’s Sustainable Dog Treats

Las Vegas has no shortage of creativity, but few local businesses are blending wellness, sustainability, and community quite like Bender’s Bakery. Founded by holistic veterinarian Dr. Joyce Liy, this small-batch dog treat company is reimagining what it means to “treat” our pets. Instead of fillers, preservatives, and flashy marketing, Bender’s Bakery is built around clean, oat-based recipes rooted in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, with every bite packaged in 100% compostable bags. The result is a business that goes far beyond snacks — it’s about nourishing dogs, protecting the planet, and supporting the community that connects them both.

From its start in Dr. Liy’s kitchen to its presence today at adoption events, pet festivals, and local fundraisers, Bender’s Bakery has grown into something bigger than just a brand. It’s a mission that blends veterinary expertise with real passion for animal wellness, and in every batch, that mission comes through loud and clear.

“Healthy dogs, happy planet — because what we feed our pets should nourish them and protect the world they live in.”

A Veterinarian’s Vision, Baked with Intention

The roots of Bender’s Bakery are personal. Dr. Liy’s own dogs (Bender, Marley, and Leela) inspired her to create something better after struggling to find treats that truly supported their health. As a veterinarian, she knew the science. As a pet parent, she knew the frustration. She didn’t want to launch another snack company. She wanted to create something functional, intentional, and rooted in long-term vitality.

That’s where Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine came in. Each recipe is formulated as a Spleen Qi tonic, designed to strengthen digestion, improve nutrient absorption, and keep the body in balance. For pet parents, that means treats that don’t just taste good, but actively support wellness.

“What sets us apart is that every treat is not only baked with clean, limited ingredients, but also thoughtfully formulated by a holistic veterinarian using Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine principles.”

Every product is made in small batches using mostly organic ingredients, with an oat base that makes them gentle on sensitive stomachs. Just as important as what goes inside is what wraps around them — every bag is made from compostable materials, a decision that aligns with Bender’s mission of caring for the planet as much as for pets.

Treat Time with Meaning

At Bender’s Bakery, treat time isn’t about spoiling a dog with empty calories. It’s about reinforcing the bond between pets and their humans, while giving owners the confidence that they’re supporting their dog’s health.

“Our goal is to make treat time a moment of connection and wellness — where dogs feel loved, nourished, and rewarded, and owners feel confident they’re giving something that truly supports their pet’s health.”

That trust comes from the transparency and integrity behind the brand. Every recipe is backed by veterinary expertise, and the company goes out of its way to educate pet parents about ingredient labels, hidden red flags, and how to make informed choices. Beyond the bag, they provide resources through social media, blog content, and in-person conversations at community events, all designed to help people become more conscious consumers.

For those who don’t want to run out, Bender’s Bakery even offers a monthly subscription service, making it simple to keep wholesome treats stocked at home without the hassle of remembering to reorder.

Rooted in Las Vegas, Reaching Further

While Bender’s Bakery ships nationwide, its foundation is firmly planted in the Las Vegas community. The team shows up regularly at local rescues, adoption fundraisers, and events, often donating products or lending a hand to causes close to their hearts. Dr. Liy also serves on the board of Michael’s Angel Paws, an organization providing service and therapy dogs, deepening the connection between her business and the wider dog-loving community.

“Dogs are a special kind of soul — they’re here to protect us, to heal us, and to bring unconditional love into our lives. I believe we share a soul contract with them, and because of that, they deserve to be honored, cared for, and nourished with the same devotion they give us every day.”

Bender’s Bakery is also a proud member of 1% for the Planet, committing a portion of its revenue to global environmental causes. As the business continues to grow, the vision is to expand its impact — from supporting more local rescue groups to tackling issues in the meat industry and funding broader animal welfare initiatives worldwide.

Meet Them in Person

Unlike many online-only treat companies, Bender’s Bakery makes a point of connecting with pet parents face-to-face. Whether it’s handing out samples, talking through nutritional benefits, or simply celebrating wagging tails, Dr. Liy and her team thrive on in-person community.

This fall, you can find them at several major Las Vegas events:

• Barking Bingo at Chicken & Pickle (Sept 21) 
• Nevada SPCA Neon Dog Walk (Oct 18)
• 6th Annual Paws in the Park (Oct 25)

At each stop, what stands out isn’t just the compostable bags or holistic formulas. It’s the genuine passion of the people behind them, a team eager to share their vision of a healthier, more sustainable future for pets.

For dog parents looking for more than just another bag of biscuits, Bender’s Bakery offers something rare: treats that are good for dogs, good for people, and good for the planet. Each small batch is a little act of love — and in Las Vegas, that love is making a big difference. Browse the full collection of treats here, or check out Bender’s Bakery on Facebook or Instagram.