In 2023, when we first applied to REI for our Castile products, we faced rejection. Instead of taking it as a setback, we saw it as an opportunity to reflect, learn, and grow. It became clear that Bathbury and REI were tackling many of the same issues—whether it’s a commitment to sustainability, outdoor adventure, or fostering a deeper connection with nature. So, we set out to not only improve our products but to evolve our entire approach.
Here's how we embarked on a journey that has not only shaped Bathbury but also brought us closer to the heart of what REI stands for.
Camp Dog Castile Soap: Created for Adventure Dogs
We started with a product designed specifically for adventurous dogs. Camp Dog Castile Soap embraces the spirit of the outdoors and the natural world. It’s not just a cleaning product; it’s an enabler for both dogs and their humans to enjoy nature fully, whether it's camping, hiking, or simply getting out there and getting dirty. This aligns with REI’s mission to inspire and equip outdoor enthusiasts while offering sustainable products.
Earth Sustainability at Penn State
Next, we turned inward and explored how we could be more sustainable in our practices. Studying Earth Sustainability at Penn State allowed us to dive deep into understanding the environmental impact of our products. From this, we made strides toward minimizing our footprint, embracing clean ingredients, and ensuring our operations are eco-friendly.
Outdoor Recreation Economy at Oregon State
We then expanded our focus to the broader outdoor economy by studying at Oregon State’s Outdoor Recreation Economy program. Through this, we gained insights into how the outdoor industry is growing, what consumers expect, and how companies can thrive in this space while promoting adventure, sustainability, and community. These are values at the heart of both REI and Bathbury.
Leave No Trace Certification
Part of our commitment to sustainability came through completing the Leave No Trace certification. This reinforced our responsibility to promote eco-friendly habits and practices, especially for dog owners. We launched the Eco Walk Program, encouraging people to take their dogs for neighborhood walks while cleaning up litter along the way. This community initiative embodies the shared REI and Bathbury philosophy of leaving the world better than we found it.
Camp Dog Tour and Reaching Adventure Dog Owners
The Camp Dog Tour is another way we connected with like-minded adventure dog owners. We traveled across different communities, spreading the word about eco-conscious dog care and promoting outdoor adventures. This tour emphasized living fully and embracing nature—values that resonate deeply with both Bathbury and REI.
Dog Cognition at Duke University
Understanding dogs and their behavior is at the core of what we do. By studying Dog Cognition at Duke University, we gained valuable insights into the relationship between humans and dogs, further enhancing our products' design to meet dogs' natural needs. It’s this attention to what dogs really need that makes our products stand out.
B-Corp Self-Impact Assessment
To further ensure we’re staying true to our values, we conducted a self-impact assessment using the B-Corp framework. This helped us evaluate our impact across various areas—from sustainability to community engagement—aligning us with the ethical principles REI values in its partners.
Outdoor Recreation Management at Oregon State College of Forestry
We also took a deep dive into Outdoor Recreation Management at Oregon State's College of Forestry. This helped us better understand how we can promote responsible and sustainable outdoor recreation for dog owners. It’s about more than just the products we sell—it’s about fostering a culture of respect for the environment.
Camp Dog Stories Podcast: Amplifying the Adventure Dog Voice
Finally, we launched the Camp Dog Stories podcast, a platform where we amplify the voices of adventurous dog owners and tell stories about outdoor experiences. It's a celebration of the same adventurous spirit that both REI and Bathbury champion—a life lived fully, with a deep connection to nature.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we prepare to reapply to REI in 2025, we do so with confidence that Bathbury’s journey reflects the shared values of both brands. From creating sustainable products to educating dog owners, everything we’ve done over the past few years has been rooted in our belief to live fully, embrace nature, and share the love—whether with our dogs, our communities, or the world around us.
We’ve grown, we’ve learned, and we’re more ready than ever to partner with REI to inspire even more adventures. Let’s get out there and live fully—with our dogs by our side.