Dr. Lauren Makowski

- Veterinarian

Dr. Lauren Makowski, a veterinarian at high volume Colorado Vet Hospital, serves as one of our board members. She actively collaborated with us by engaging with behaviorists to discuss our formula and provided valuable recommendations for adjusting the formula for peak calming aid for dogs. Dr. Makowski also personally administers ZenMelts to her own dogs!

Recently, she introduced ZenMelts to dogs at the shelter affiliated with her Vet Hospital, and achieved remarkable success. ZenMelts were able to help one shelter dog in an acute situation transition away from injectable calming medications! Her regiment of ZenMelts allowed her body a break from Rx calming medication for several days at a time during this acutely stressful time in the shelter! Currently, Dr. Makowski is collaborating with the hospital's head veterinarian to develop a dosing protocol for animals both before and after medical procedures. So that there can be situational as well as daily ZenMelt regiments available for the pups at their practice.

Read Dr. Lauren Makowski's Testimonial

“They melt smoothly on the dog's tongue, ensuring they can't spit them out. They are super fast-acting, and are crafted from all-natural, human-grade materials. I give them to my own dogs when we have workers at the house and for thunderstorms! We have also started using them on shelter pets and hospitalized pets to help keep them calm and relaxed!“

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How they're made!

The science of ZenMelts, where innovation meets canine tranquility! 🐾✨ Crafting these science backed oral thin films for your anxious dogs at PetPax Co. is nothing short of a paw-some!

We start by selecting top-notch ingredients – chamomile, melatonin, l-theanine, and tryptophan, all known for their anxiety-relieving effects. But we don’t stop there! To make them irresistibly tasty, we sprinkle in a hint of cheese flavor, because why not make relaxation a delectable experience for your pup?

Our skilled manufacturers with decades of experience mix these ingredients into a soothing solution, ready to help you and your pup cope with stressful situations as they arise! Our manufacturer uses state-of-the-art thin film-making machine. With precision and care, the solution is delicately spread, creating a thin layer that holds all the key veterinary backed ingredients of serenity for your doggo.

After the ingredients are added and the mixture is created the next crucial step is the drying. We have to achieve the perfect thickness and consistency for the optimal experience for you and your pup. Drying is a delicate balance but we like to think of it as the first warm hug from our drying ovens for your pup to kick start the serenity for them. The process is a symphony of meticulous monitoring to ensure each film retains its integrity and effectiveness.


Once the masterpiece is ready, our thin film takes center stage, gracefully lifted from the platform and shaped into bite-sized pieces of zen. Each piece is individually sealed, promising freshness and potency.

But the real magic happens in your dog’s mouth! 🎩✨ These films, designed for swift dissolution, let your pup experience a rapid wave of calmness within a minute. No more wrestling with pills or playing hide-and-seek with injections – ZenMelts are the superhero sidekick your anxious dog deserves.

Say goodbye to stress and hello to a world where comfort and relief come in delightful, cheese-flavored melts. ZenMelts by PetPax Co. – because every dog deserves a taste of tranquility!

More About Our Ingredients

White chamomile flowers with yellow centers and green leaves.

Chamomile: A Natural Solution for Canine Anxiety in ZenMelts

In the realm of natural remedies, few plants hold as rich a history and as versatile a reputation as chamomile. Revered for its soothing properties and gentle demeanor, chamomile has been a staple in herbal medicine for centuries. But what is the story behind this humble herb, and how does it help dogs find tranquility amidst anxiety? Join us as we embark on a journey through time to uncover the historical use of chamomile and its role in aiding canine calmness, as featured in our ZenMelts.

A Glimpse into Chamomile's Past:

The story of chamomile stretches back through the annals of history, with roots firmly planted in ancient civilizations across the globe. Both the Egyptians and the Greeks revered chamomile for its medicinal properties, using it to treat a myriad of ailments ranging from digestive issues to skin conditions. The name "chamomile" itself is derived from the Greek words "chamai" (ground) and "melon" (apple), a nod to the plant's low-growing nature and apple-like scent.


Chamomile in Traditional Medicine:

Throughout history, chamomile has been prized for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular choice in traditional medicine systems around the world. In Europe, chamomile tea has long been used as a soothing remedy for stress, anxiety, and insomnia, while in traditional Chinese medicine, chamomile is valued for its ability to harmonize the mind and body.


Chamomile's Journey to Canine Wellness:
As our understanding of herbal medicine has evolved, so too has our appreciation for chamomile's potential to promote well-being in our furry companions. Today, chamomile is recognized as a safe and effective natural remedy for alleviating anxiety in dogs. Whether it's the gentle aroma of chamomile-infused products or the calming effects of chamomile tea, dogs can benefit from this ancient herb in various forms.


The Science Behind Chamomile's Calming Effect:

What sets chamomile apart as a natural anxiety reliever for dogs? The secret lies in its rich array of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, terpenoids, and essential oils. These compounds work synergistically to exert calming, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects on the body, helping to soothe frayed nerves and promote a sense of tranquility.

Introducing ZenMelts: Harnessing the Power of Chamomile for Canine Calmness

At PetPax Co., we believe in the power of nature to nurture our pets' well-being, which is why we've infused our ZenMelts with the soothing essence of chamomile. Designed to melt away anxiety and promote relaxation in dogs of all breeds and sizes, ZenMelts offer a convenient and stress-free way to help your furry friend find their zen.


Crafted with care and backed by science, ZenMelts harness the time-tested wisdom of chamomile to provide gentle relief from anxiety without any harsh chemicals or sedatives. Whether your dog struggles with separation anxiety, fear of loud noises, or general nervousness, ZenMelts offer a holistic solution to help them feel calm, centered, and at ease.


As we journey through the annals of history, one thing becomes abundantly clear: chamomile's legacy as a healing herb transcends time and borders. From ancient civilizations to modern-day pet wellness, chamomile continues to weave its soothing spell, offering comfort and calmness to dogs in need. With ZenMelts, we invite you to embrace the healing power of chamomile and embark on a journey towards greater peace and harmony for your beloved canine companion.

Wooden bowl and spoons with pumpkin seeds, 'tryptophan' text above.

The Evolution of Tryptophan's Role in Easing Canine Anxiety with ZenMelts

In the vast tapestry of natural remedies, few substances possess the timeless allure and therapeutic potential of tryptophan. This essential amino acid, revered for its role in promoting relaxation and regulating mood, has a storied history that spans centuries. But what is the story behind this ancient elixir, and how does it help to calm dogs grappling with anxiety? Join us as we embark on a journey through time to explore the historical use of tryptophan and its transformative effect on canine calmness, as featured in our ZenMelts.


Unearthing the Origins of Tryptophan:

The story of tryptophan's discovery is steeped in the annals of ancient civilizations, where wise healers and herbalists sought to unlock the secrets of nature's pharmacy. Tryptophan, named after the Greek word "tryptos" meaning "winding" or "turning," first gained prominence for its presence in protein-rich foods such as turkey and dairy products. However, it wasn't until the 20th century that scientists began to unravel the full extent of tryptophan's influence on the mind and body.


While tryptophan was initially valued for its role as a building block of protein, researchers soon discovered its unique ability to serve as a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter known for its mood-regulating properties. Serotonin, often referred to as the "feel-good" neurotransmitter, plays a pivotal role in promoting feelings of calmness, happiness, and well-being. Tryptophan's conversion to serotonin within the brain laid the foundation for its use as a natural remedy for anxiety and stress.


Tryptophan's Journey to Canine Wellness:

As our understanding of tryptophan has evolved, so too has our appreciation for its potential to ease anxiety in dogs. Canine anxiety, whether triggered by separation, loud noises, or other stressors, can have a profound impact on a dog's quality of life, leading to destructive behaviors and emotional distress. With its calming and mood-stabilizing effects, tryptophan offers a natural solution to help dogs find peace and tranquility in the face of life's challenges.


What sets tryptophan apart as a natural anxiety reliever for dogs? The answer lies in its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and serve as a precursor to serotonin synthesis in the brain. By increasing serotonin levels, tryptophan helps promote feelings of relaxation and well-being, while also helping to regulate mood and behavior.


ZenMelts utilize the power of tryptophan to help calm your anxious or reactive dog. At PetPax Co., we combine science and nature to help pets with their problems, which is why we've infused our ZenMelts with the soothing essence of tryptophan. Crafted with care and backed by science, ZenMelts offer a convenient and stress-free way to help your furry friend find their zen. Designed to melt away anxiety and promote relaxation in dogs of all breeds and sizes, ZenMelts offer a holistic solution to help your dog feel calm, centered, and at ease. With ZenMelts, you can trust in the ancient wisdom of tryptophan to provide gentle relief from anxiety without any harsh chemicals, filler ingredients or sedatives.


The healing legacy of tryptophan continues to endure, offering comfort and solace to dogs in need. With ZenMelts, we invite you to embrace the transformative power of tryptophan, combined with our other star ingredients, and embark on a journey towards greater peace and harmony for your beloved canine companion.

'L-theanine' text overlay on fresh, dew-covered green tea leaves with sunlight filtering through.

The Historical Roots of L-Theanine & Its Soothing Effect on Canine Anxiety in ZenMelts

In the realm of natural remedies, few substances hold as fascinating a history and as promising a future as L-Theanine. This amino acid, found abundantly in tea leaves, has been treasured for centuries for its calming properties and its ability to promote relaxation without drowsiness. But what is the story behind this remarkable compound, and how does it offer solace to dogs amidst anxiety? Join us, PetPaxers, as we delve into the historical use of L-Theanine and its role in aiding canine calmness, as featured in our ZenMelts.


A Journey Through Time:

The story of L-Theanine traces back to ancient tea ceremonies in East Asia, where monks and scholars sought enlightenment and tranquility through the ritualistic consumption of tea. It was in these hallowed halls that the restorative powers of L-Theanine were first discovered, as tea drinkers experienced a profound sense of calm and focus without the jittery side effects often associated with caffeine.


Despite its ancient origins, it wasn't until the 20th century that scientists began to unravel the mysteries of L-Theanine. Research conducted in Japan in the 1950s revealed L-Theanine's unique ability to promote alpha brain wave activity, leading to a state of relaxed alertness and mental clarity. Further studies confirmed L-Theanine's calming effects on the central nervous system, paving the way for its use as a natural remedy for anxiety and stress.


L-Theanine and Canine Wellness:

As our understanding of L-Theanine has deepened, so too has our appreciation for its potential to promote well-being in our canine companions. Dogs, like humans, can experience anxiety in various forms, from separation anxiety to fear of loud noises or unfamiliar environments. With its gentle yet effective calming properties, L-Theanine offers a natural solution to help dogs find peace and serenity in the face of life's challenges, which is why we chose it as one of the ingredients in our revolutionary ZenMelts.


What sets L-Theanine apart as a natural anxiety reliever for dogs? The answer lies in its ability to modulate neurotransmitter activity in the brain, particularly increasing levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), serotonin, and dopamine. These neurotransmitters play key roles in regulating mood, stress response, and emotional well-being, helping to promote a sense of relaxation and tranquility.


Introducing ZenMelts: Harnessing the Power of L-Theanine for Canine Calmness.

At PetPax Co., we believe in harnessing  the power of nature to nurture our pets' well-being, which is why we've infused our ZenMelts with the soothing essence of L-Theanine. Crafted with care and backed by science, ZenMelts offer a convenient and stress-free way to help your furry friend find their zen. Designed to melt away anxiety and promote relaxation in dogs of all breeds and sizes, ZenMelts offer a holistic solution to help your dog feel calm, centered, and at ease. With ZenMelts, you can trust in the time-tested wisdom of L-Theanine to provide gentle relief from anxiety without any harsh chemicals or sedatives.


As we journey through history, one thing becomes abundantly clear: the healing legacy of L-Theanine knows no bounds. From ancient tea ceremonies to modern-day pet wellness, L-Theanine continues to offer solace and serenity to dogs in need. With ZenMelts, we invite you to embrace the restorative power of L-Theanine and embark on a journey towards greater peace and harmony for your beloved canine companion.

Alarm clock on brain model with word 'melatonin' and night-themed background.

Melatonin and Its Role in Easing Canine Anxiety with ZenMelts

In the realm of natural remedies, few substances have captured the imagination and offered as much promise as melatonin. This hormone, produced naturally by the pineal gland in response to darkness, has been revered for its role in regulating sleep-wake cycles and promoting relaxation. But what is the story behind this ancient elixir, and how does it offer solace to dogs struggling with anxiety? Join us as we embark on a journey through time to explore the historical use of melatonin and its transformative effect on canine calmness, as featured in our ZenMelts.


Tracing Melatonin Through the Ages:

The story of melatonin's discovery is a tale as old as time, rooted in the rhythms of the natural world. For centuries, cultures around the globe have observed the ebb and flow of daylight and darkness, recognizing the profound influence of these cycles on human and animal health. It was against this backdrop that melatonin emerged as a vital regulator of biological rhythms, orchestrating the dance of sleep and wakefulness with exquisite precision.


While melatonin's role in sleep-wake regulation has been known for centuries, its journey from ancient wisdom to modern science began in earnest in the mid-20th century. Scientists studying the pineal gland uncovered melatonin's ability to synchronize circadian rhythms, shedding light on its potential therapeutic benefits for sleep disorders, jet lag, and other disruptions to the body's internal clock.


Melatonin's Calming Influence on Canine Anxiety:

As our understanding of melatonin has deepened, so too has our appreciation for its potential to ease anxiety in dogs. Whether triggered by separation, noise phobias, or other stressors, canine anxiety can wreak havoc on a dog's well-being, leading to destructive behaviors and emotional distress. With its calming and sedative effects, melatonin offers a natural solution to help dogs find peace and tranquility in the face of life's challenges.


Let’s now take a look into the science behind melatonin's anxiety-relieving properties. What exactly sets melatonin apart as a natural anxiety reliever for dogs? The answer lies in its ability to modulate neurotransmitter activity in the brain, particularly serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). By increasing levels of these calming neurotransmitters, melatonin helps promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, without causing sedation or impairment.


ZenMelts harness the power of melatonin for canine calmness. Here at PetPax Co., we believe in the power of nature, which is why we've infused our ZenMelts with the soothing essence of melatonin. Crafted with care and backed by science, ZenMelts offer a convenient and stress-free way to help your furry friend find their zen. We’ve worked with Vets to make sure that our formula is healthy for your pup as well as calming. 


Designed to melt away anxiety and promote relaxation in dogs of all breeds and sizes, ZenMelts offer a holistic solution to help your dog feel calm, centered, and at ease. With ZenMelts, you can trust in the ancient wisdom of melatonin to provide gentle relief from anxiety without any harsh chemicals or sedatives.


As we take a look at the history of melatonin use, one thing becomes abundantly clear: the healing legacy of melatonin endures, offering comfort and solace to dogs in need. With ZenMelts, we invite you to embrace the transformative power of melatonin and embark on a journey towards greater peace and harmony for your beloved canine companion.