Pittsburgh Startup Pup O’Clock Integrates Education, Pet Ownership, and Community Support

A Pittsburgh-based company, Pup O’Clock, is merging children’s education, pet ownership, and community support through an innovative startup. Founded by Brian Manni, Pup O’Clock provides monthly subscription boxes with themed activities to help children learn responsibility by taking care of their dogs.

Many families adopted dogs during the COVID-19 pandemic, but struggled with the associated responsibilities. Manni saw this trend and decided to help children develop important life skills through pet care.

“I wanted to give kids a tool to adopt responsibility at that particular age,” Manni expressed. “Dog ownership helps them build consistency, discipline, self-sacrifice, and patience, providing a meaningful life foundation.”

Manni’s personal recovery journey influenced the company’s mission. His commitment to giving back involves supporting programs like Autism Pittsburgh and Joey’s PAW and donating part of proceeds to shelters and organizations that promote the human-animal bond.

“I started this company mirroring my sobriety journey,” Manni shared. “Our community-focused approach supports both shelters and special needs organizations. We collaborate locally with Autism Pittsburgh, allowing animals and kids to improve one another through entertainment.”

Each Pup O’Clock box features educational content, hands-on activities, recipes, dog enrichment tools, treats, and collectible materials based on monthly themes. Content is developed with veterinary and pet enrichment experts to enhance children’s understanding of pet care while promoting practical life skills.

The startup has partnered with Point Park University, allowing students and graduates to engage in animation, technology, web development, and creative arts as Pup O’Clock expands its “League of Pups” animated series.

Pup O’Clock’s 2.0 Kickstarter campaign launched on Oct. 15 and will run until Nov. 15. The campaign aims to expand the subscription program, create more opportunities for local students, and support community organizations in Pittsburgh.

This report was created by Gabby Sartori, [[email protected]], with AI assistance. Journalists reviewed, edited, and published the content. More details are available at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.