Mella Pet Care, developers of connected pet health devices, last week appeared on ABC’s hit TV show “Shark Tank” and reached an investment deal with entrepreneur Mark Cuban. The company built Shark Tank investors into an ecosystem of health monitoring solutions for veterinarians and pet owners – including the first non-invasive, accurate underarm thermometer for pets.
Serial entrepreneur and longtime Shark Tank investor Cuban offered Mella a deal to expand distribution and accelerate the development of new products, such as the Biggie Body Scale for body fat analysis.
“I am excited to partner with Mella Pet Care and support their mission of improving the lives of pets and pet owners,” said Cuban. “Their innovative product line perfectly aligns with the evolving needs of today’s pet-centric society. Together, we will disrupt the pet care industry and deliver solutions that empower pet owners and improve the well-being of our beloved four-legged friends.”
Mella CEO/co-founder Anya Babbitt, COO/co-founder Ben Seidman and chief of staff Daniella Morgan-Pascualvaca appeared on the March 1 episode of the ABC series.
“Who knew pets could fish? How we found out at Mella Pet Care – because Mella just hooked a great white shark! We are honored and thrilled to receive an investment that closes our Shark Tank deal to Mark Cuban,” Babbitt said. “His expertise, insight, network, and passion for pets and innovation will accelerate the expansion of Mella’s product offerings to reach a broader customer base. With Mark’s support, we at Mella are confident in our ability to revolutionize pet care and make a positive impact on the lives of pet owners and their furry companions.”
Babbitt founded the company in 2019 after her rescue dog, Mella, nearly died as a puppy due to a lack of data to diagnose and prevent her health condition. With a noninvasive axillary thermometer and upcoming products such as a body fat analyzer, chip reader and pulse oximeter, Mella Pet Care enables pet parents to monitor their pets’ vitals and integrate with veterinary care.
Studies have found that Mella’s armpit thermometers reduce procedure time and the need for stressful restraints during veterinary visits, compared to traditional rectal thermometers. The Mella Pro thermometer and other products are used by veterinarians in more than 1,300 clinics in 15 countries, according to the company.
Ultimately, Babbitt said, the widespread use in the home of pet-friendly, accurate and smart diagnostic tools will help pets live happier and healthier lives.
Along with Cuban, Mella’s team built investors Kevin O’Leary, Lori Greiner, Daymond John and Daniel Lubetzky on the ABC show, now in its 15th season.
(Photo courtesy of Mella Pet Care)