The Leap Venture Studio blog series is back after completing an exclusive studio program for pet care startups from EU and UK. In September 2022, seven early-stage pet care startups joined the program for 12-weeks to accelerate their ventures. During this time, the companies worked with experts from Mars Petcare, Michelson Found Animals and R/GA Ventures and received venture capital investment, mentorship, and customized programming tailored to meet their needs.

Rex (Germany) is building beautiful modern veterinary practices embracing modern technology and convenience we expect in our lives.

Jonathan Loesling, Founder & CEO

Tell us about your startup

Jonathan: Rex is building and operating design-forward, tech-enabled veterinary clinics in Germany.

How has your startup made a difference for pets?

Jonathan: We aim to create feel-good veterinary experiences that minimize stress, both for pets and their humans. There is a lot of detail going into this, from online appointment booking to prevent long wait times and filled waiting rooms, to separate waiting rooms for cats and dogs, little corners to “hide” with the pets while waiting, plastic covers so treatment tables are not too cold, and more.

What are the greatest challenges you’ve faced as a startup founder and how have you overcome them?

Jonathan: Like most founders there is an endless list of challenges we are facing day to day. Last year, the biggest hurdle for us was our seed financing round. The backing we have received here from several great VCs and other entrepreneurs gave us a great chance to prove our model and make a dent in the industry.

What is your biggest take away from the Leap Venture Studio?

Jonathan: Pet care is a fantastic business to be in, mainly because of the people. Everyone is always helpful and caring and wants the best for our furry friends and the people caring for them.

What advice would you give to fellow pet care founders who are just starting their journey?

Jonathan: Make sure you have a business model that is really sound. I see a lot of businesses growing out of personal interests or expertize (solution looking for a problem). Understanding the consumer and financing climate, and building “close to the market” are especially crucial.

What do you think the future of pet care will look like?

Jonathan: Pet care is playing catchup in many ways: across many subcategories from software to healthcare to food we still do not have the same focus on a high quality and seamless user experience present in the human counterpart categories. I think this will change in the next decade.

Rex is launching its second clinic in Berlin in Q2 2023! If you are in Berlin and have a pet you want to receive the best care, make sure to give them a visit.

To learn more about Rex, visit their website.

Check out Rex’s pitch at the Leap Venture Studio Cohort 6 Demo Day that was held on December 15, 2022. If you are interested in connecting with their team, email us at leapventurestudio@gmail.com.