We had the good fortune of connecting with Jordan Gutierrez and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jordan, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Our journey with Native Raw Eats began with a very personal experience. Our co-owner, Vicente, has been an entrepreneur for over 25 years, running a USDA-regulated meat processing plant for human consumption. The idea for Native Raw Eats was sparked when our family’s dogs—Opie and Daphiney, owned by Jordan and his wife Itzel—started facing health challenges, including weight issues, allergies, and digestive problems on a kibble diet. Vicente knew there had to be a better solution, and with his background in agriculture, he started researching the benefits of a raw diet for dogs.
The change was remarkable. Opie and Daphiney thrived, and that was the moment Native Raw Eats was born. Jordan, who had always been involved, officially became co-owner in 2022. Since then, he has perfected our raw diet production and developed our line of single-ingredient treats. Davene later joined the team, bringing the creative vision that helped shape the company’s unique vibe.
At Native Raw Eats, our mission is rooted in personal experience and a deep commitment to improving pets’ health. We strive to make high-quality, natural nutrition accessible to everyone’s fur family.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
At Native Raw Eats we’re proud to be a Native American, Latino, and veteran-owned family business dedicated to providing the best nutrition for your furry friends.
Our all-natural raw diet dog food and single-ingredient treats are crafted with love and care, using only human grade ingredients.
We believe in the power of natural, wholesome nutrition to enhance the health and happiness of your pets. Trust us to deliver quality and commitment in every bite, straight from our family to yours!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1:
Morning: Take a day to visit La Plaza Colorado, a vibrant Latino-inspired indoor market with over 80 vendors, restaurants, and shops. There’s even a supermarket, kids play area, and arcade for family fun. Don’t forget to stop by the Native Raw Eats storefront to pick up some treats for your pets or learn more about the raw diet food.
Lunch: Grab authentic Mexican street food from one of the La Plaza food stalls.
Afternoon: Continue exploring the vendors, then try some paletas (Mexican popsicles) before heading out.
Dinner: Go to Acorn in the RiNo District.
Day 2:
Morning: Drive to Boulder for a scenic hike at Chautauqua Park
Lunch: Stop at The Kitchen
Afternoon: Stroll along Pearl Street Mall
Dinner: Head back to Denver and eat El Five
Day 3:
Morning: Start with breakfast at Snooze
Afternoon: Explore downtown Denver, walking through 16th Street Mall, visit Union Station, and grab lunch at Mercantile Dining & Provision
Evening: Head to Casa Bonita they have Mexican food, cliff divers, & puppet shows
Day 4:
Morning: Drive to Rocky Mountain National Park
Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy on the hike or stop Bird & Jim in Estes Park.
Afternoon: Visit Estes Park town for shopping
Dinner: Head back to Denver and relax with dinner at Tamayo’s
Day 5:
Morning: Head to Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs for a stunning walk
Lunch: Stop by Four by Brother Luck for a creative menu with local ingredients.
Afternoon: Enjoy an awesome trip to the zoo to feed giraffes and eat dinner in the zoo, they have amazing pizza!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Our journey with Native Raw Eats wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support of our immediate families. They believed in our vision from day one and took a leap of faith alongside us, even when the road ahead was uncertain. Whether it was offering advice, lending a helping hand, or simply being there to listen when we needed encouragement, they’ve been our backbone through every challenge and triumph. Their love, belief, and sacrifice are woven into the fabric of our success, and for that, we are eternally grateful.
Website: https://nativeraweats.com/
Instagram: @nativeraweats
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nativeraweats/
Image Credits
Lucia Gutierrez