Jon StojanFounded in 2014 by serial entrepreneur and pharmaceutical expert Helena van der Merwe, A-Plus-Consulting is taking a bold approach to enhancing pet health. After recognizing a growing interest in plant-based solutions, Helena was determined to develop a daily preventative that could protect pets from the most common ailments. A-Plus Naturals Plant-Based Immunity Blend has now become a leading product for cats, dogs, and other animals to achieve excellent health.
Pet adoption rates increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. With isolation at an all time high, animals helped humans find support. Millennials represent the largest percentage of pet owners in the US, and they’re well-known for their commitment to pet care. Compared to older generations, they are more likely to invest in their pet’s well-being by purchasing products and services that are plant-based.
Helena van der Merwe, a pharmaceutical professional and entrepreneur, noticed a lack of pet supplements on the market. In particular, she recognized a need for plant-based solutions that targeted the most common health issues pets face. With a background in high-ranking pharmaceutical companies, Helena was uniquely suited to develop a new solution. Her interest in pet health products stemmed from a successful space radiation research study she co-authored at the NASA Space Radiation Facility in Brookhaven. Through this work, she explored the efficacy of nutraceuticals and immunity blends on astronauts on deep space missions. Her findings inspired her to create her own immunity blend, since she had been very interested in bringing a powerful new product to consumers.
Image source: Helena van der Merwe
Further market research illustrated that the pet health market was most in need. From there, the A-Plus Naturals Plant-Based Immunity Blend was born. Helena spent significant time developing the product, researching effective natural compounds for health conditions in pets.
Similar to humans, inflammation is one of the most common culprits for serious health problems in animals. Some supplements offer ingredients that prevent inflammation, but most lack a robust formula that addresses all facets of pet health. The A-Plus Naturals Plant Based Immunity Blend is enriched with pre and probiotics, ginger, turmeric, shiitake and reishi mushrooms to boost gut and immune health. Larch Arabinogalactan and L-lysine are also included within the formula specially to help joint health. The supplement is ingested daily once and is best mixed in with pet food. Dosage depends on the pet’s weight and any existing allergies they may have.
Image source: A-Plus Consulting
The Immunity Blend has helped many pets become healthier, including Shrimpie, a young cat who was struggling to meet development milestones. The cat owner, John Milian from Kenol’s Cats, was concerned about the animal’s well-being and decided to use A-Plus’ product as a last resort. After four weeks, Shrimpie gained weight and had improved energy levels. Other pet parents who have used the supplement believe it’s also effective for reducing sneezing, skin lesions, and other common symptoms.
Helena has future plans to expand the supplement’s distribution from online channels to airports, K-9 units, and other niches. Her experience founding A-Plus-Consulting and operating other entrepreneurial ventures has taught her how to develop an idea into a profitable business. With A-Plus Naturals, she aims to help pet owners better care for their animals, and increase quality of life for pets.
Helena has developed a separate immunity blend formula tailored for humans, and is currently exploring the possibility of creating another supplement in the future.