Redefining Pet Care, One Chew at a Time

Nepal’s pet industry is evolving – and at its forefront is Peyang Lama, the young entrepreneur behind Shangrila Pet Co., a proudly Nepali brand crafting natural, ethical, and healthy pet treats and accessories. With a global perspective shaped by her years abroad and a heart anchored in homegrown values, Peyang is proving that compassion and commerce can coexist beautifully. Get the full story behind Shangrila Pet Co. in our interview with founder Peyang Lama, on The Buzz Nepal.

A Heart for Pets, A Vision for Change

For Peyang Lama, the journey to becoming one of Nepal’s most promising young entrepreneurs began far from home. After earning her degree in Business Administration from Northeastern University in Boston, she spent six years in the U.S. gaining valuable professional experience. But it was her love for dogs – and an entrepreneurial instinct – that would eventually lead her back to Nepal with a vision.

“My love for dogs and passion for entrepreneurship inspired me to build a brand that celebrates Nepal’s unique products while giving back to the animal community,” Peyang shares.

How It All Began

The idea for Shangrila Pet Co. was born quite unexpectedly during her time abroad. Peyang recalls, “I used to dog-sit part-time and would bring back churpi – traditional Himalayan cheese – as treats. The dogs loved them, and so did their owners! That overwhelming reaction planted the seed for what would become Shangrila Pet Co.”

When she returned to Nepal, she noticed a gap in the local market. “We had incredible producers of Nak (female yak) cheese chews, but no brand representing them with authenticity, ethics, and global appeal,” she explains. “I wanted to build that bridge.”

And that bridge would soon connect local artisans, ethical production, and a new generation of conscious pet owners.

Starting Small, Dreaming Big

Like most startups, the early days of Shangrila Pet Co. came with their fair share of challenges – from navigating bureaucratic hurdles in lab testing and certifications to building a capable, motivated team from scratch.

“Starting from zero was overwhelming,” Peyang admits. “But I learned to focus on solving one problem at a time and to stay rooted in our mission – creating high-quality Nepali pet products that make a positive impact on animal welfare.”

Transitioning from a 9-to-5 job in the U.S. to leading her own company in Nepal also transformed her understanding of leadership. “Leadership, to me, means empowerment, inclusion, and leading by example. Our team may be small, but everyone’s voice matters – and that’s what keeps us strong,” she says.

Shaping Nepal’s Pet Culture

As pet ownership continues to rise in Nepal, Peyang sees Shangrila Pet Co. as part of a much larger shift toward responsible and mindful pet care. “Pet ownership in Nepal is growing rapidly, and we want to shape that growth responsibly,” she notes.

Her mission is to encourage pet parents to choose natural, nutritious, and locally made products – options that not only benefit animals but also support Nepali producers. “Every product we create is a small step toward more conscious pet care,” she adds.

Consumer behavior, she believes, is also evolving for the better. “Today’s pet parents are far more aware – they ask about ingredients, sourcing, and transparency. They’re proud to support Nepali-made brands that prioritize ethics and sustainability. That shift gives me a lot of hope for the industry.”

A Global Moment for a Nepali Brand

This year, Shangrila Pet Co. made its international debut at pet fairs in Singapore and Las Vegas – and the response was overwhelming. “We completely sold out at both events,” Peyang says proudly. “The feedback from retailers, distributors, and pet parents was incredible. It was a validating moment – proof that Nepali-made products can shine globally.”

The Road Ahead

Looking forward, the brand is set to expand beyond its signature Nak Chews into a wider range of natural treats and eco-friendly pet accessories – all handmade and ethically sourced.

“Our vision is to make Shangrila Pet Co. a trusted name in both local and international markets, representing quality, sustainability, and compassion,” Peyang says.

Life Beyond Business

When she’s not running her company, Peyang finds joy and inspiration in her three dogs – Riri, Leo, and Coffee. “They’re my biggest joy and motivation,” she smiles. Outside of work, she enjoys going to the gym, baking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. “Keeping that balance helps me recharge and come back to work with a fresh perspective.”

Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

For those hoping to follow a similar path, Peyang’s advice is clear: “Start with a clear purpose and a real understanding of the industry. The pet business requires both heart and strategy – you have to care deeply about animals but also know your operations.”

Her guiding philosophy remains simple yet profound:

“The pet industry isn’t just about products – it’s about empathy. When you build with heart, you build something that lasts.”

Check out her business page:

Instagram: @shangrilapet.co

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