Wags in a Bag: Where Every Treat Opens Doors to Opportunity

What if every tasty dog treat you bought could help someone build life-changing skills and foster independence? That’s the impact behind Wags in a Bag, the unique social enterprise run by RISE Services, Inc. Missouri. Here, freshly baked dog treats do much more than satisfy pets. They help create job opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Wags in a Bag as a Social Enterprise

Wags in a Bag was launched in 2013 with a clear purpose. The mission was to give individuals with disabilities an opportunity to learn job and vocational skills in a practical and hands-on way. Over the years, Wags in a Bag has empowered individuals to develop skills, build confidence, and take steps toward greater independence.

This nonprofit pet bakery flips the script. As one of RISE Services, Inc. Missouri’s social enterprises, Wags in a Bag reinvests every dollar earned from dog treat sales back into opportunities for skill development and meaningful employment for individuals with IDD.

Creating Opportunity and Building Skills

For many individuals, finding meaningful work can be a challenge. Wags in a Bag provides real-life work experiences where employees are part of every step, from mixing and shaping dough to packaging treats and helping with orders.

Team members develop practical vocational abilities like teamwork, time management, and safe food handling. More importantly, they experience the pride and satisfaction of contributing to mission-driven work, strengthening their independence and sense of belonging. “It’s very fun. I love it!” says Lizzy, who is an integral part of the team.

Fresh, Healthy Dog Treats with Heart

While the mission is inspiring, the treats themselves are a hit with four-legged customers! Wags in a Bag offers a tempting menu of all-natural pet treats, each baked in small batches by team members. You can choose from flavors like peanut butter bacon, chicken parsley, cheddar, and apple carrot. All our treat options are made with quality ingredients you can trust.

Ready to Make a Difference?

You can be part of the Wags in a Bag story! Order hand-baked treats for your pets, donate to support the program, spread the word to friends and family, or learn how someone you know can get involved with RISE Services, Inc. Missouri.

Remember, every purchased bag supports a journey toward greater independence and opportunity. So, give your dog a treat that gives back and contact RISE Missouri today to learn more about our social enterprises for individuals with IDD.