Freshpet Names Top Veterinary Nutritionist as Research and Communications Lead

Freshpet has appointed Dr. Lisa Weeth, a leading veterinary nutritionist, as its new head of veterinary research and communications. With over two decades of experience in pet nutrition, she will now oversee scientific studies and guide the company's engagement with veterinarians full-time.

Dr. Weeth brings deep expertise to the role, having worked with Freshpet as a consultant for more than 15 years. Her appointment strengthens the company's focus on fresh pet food research and its impact on animal health. Dr. Weeth graduated from the University of California, Davis, and completed her clinical nutrition residency in 2007. She later became one of fewer than 90 board-certified veterinary nutritionists in the U.S. Her career includes establishing the first dedicated nutrition service at Red Bank Veterinary Hospital in New Jersey, where she provided specialised care for pets.

For years, she has supported veterinarians and pet owners through in-person and telehealth consultations. Alongside her new role, she will maintain leadership positions with the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM), the WSAVA Global Nutrition Committee, and the American Association of Veterinary Nutrition (AAVN).

At Freshpet, Dr. Weeth will lead clinical nutrition efforts in research, product development, and scientific communication. The company has already funded multiple studies on fresh pet food, including a 2018 University of Illinois project on palatability and digestibility. An ongoing Iowa State University study, announced in March 2026, is examining how diet affects dog health and the human-animal bond. Additional feeding trials have been published through Freshpet's veterinary professionals hub.

Dr. Gerardo Pérez-Camargo, another veterinary expert, has previously noted that fresh, whole-food diets can significantly improve pets' lives. Dr. Weeth's work will build on this belief, advancing research into the benefits of fresh nutrition. Freshpet's research into fresh pet food now has a dedicated leader in Dr. Weeth. Her role will expand the company's collaborations with universities and veterinarians. The findings from these studies will shape future product development and veterinary guidance on pet nutrition.