Session 3 :An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure

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Meet Brad Gruber

 Visionary Leader in Pet Nutrition and Third-Generation Owner of Health Extension

Brad Gruber is the third-generation owner of Health Extension, a family-owned pet nutrition company dedicated to improving the lives of pets since 1963. Raised in a vibrant entrepreneurial family in New York, Brad’s love for animals began early. At just 10 years old, he saved up every penny to bring home his first collie, sparking a lifelong passion for pets and their well-being.

Brad’s life took a transformative turn at 22 when he was diagnosed with lymphoma, shortly after earning his BS in Business from the University at Albany. Battling cancer reshaped his perspective on health, resilience, and nutrition. Emerging in remission, Brad channeled the lessons he learned into his life’s work: revolutionizing pet care through holistic, whole-food nutrition.

Under Brad’s leadership, Health Extension has grown from its humble beginnings into a thriving enterprise, operating out of a 55,000-square-foot facility in Hauppauge, NY. Over the past two decades, the company has expanded nationally and internationally, launched innovative products like SnugArooz toys, and remained committed to its mission of providing pets with the best chance at long, healthy, and happy lives. Throughout it all, Health Extension has stayed true to its roots, remaining 100% family-owned and free from outside investors.

Brad has been recognized for his achievements with honors such as the Top 40 Under 40 award, but his greatest pride lies in making a difference for pets and their families. Outside of work, Brad cherishes time with his wife, Alexis—his high school sweetheart—and their three daughters, as well as their two furry companions, a Goldendoodle and a Morkie.

Brad’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and purpose. He remains driven by a simple yet profound belief: pets bring magic to our lives, and they deserve the very best in return. At the summit, Brad shares his expertise and insights on how nutrition and care can transform the health and happiness of pets everywhere.

MEET THE HOST

Peggy I. Pleines—a devoted dog lover and passionate pet care advocate who’s spent over 25 years in the pet care industry, sharing her journey, insights, and endless love for dogs. Peggy has a special knack for bringing out the best in every dog and dog parent, often playfully known as the "crazy dog person" by those who know her.

As a skilled dog communicator, Peggy’s connection with dogs goes beyond words—she truly understands the language of wagging tails, gentle nudges, and those soulful puppy eyes. Her dedication to enriching the lives of both pets and their people has made her a guiding light in the world of pet care. Peggy’s vision for this summit is simple but profound: to transform the everyday challenges of dog ownership into moments of joy, connection, and love.

Whether it’s sharing practical tips or exclusive pet-parent perks, Peggy has brought together some of the world’s best dog experts to help you embark on an unforgettable journey with your furry friend. So, join Peggy and an incredible community of dog lovers to turn puppyhood into pure joy, and let’s make every moment with your dog a cherished memory!