Meet Jerumel Laygo | Chef and Dog Food Enthusiast

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jerumel Laygo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jerumel, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting DoggyBags was simple: I saw a need and decided to fill it. Dogs are facing more health problems than ever, and pet owners want healthier food that doesn’t break the bank. That’s why I created DoggyBags—healthy, affordable meals your dogs need and will love.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve been a professional chef for over 18 years, having founded the catering company La Tabela and opened Topanga Table and First and Hope in Los Angeles. Alongside my culinary career, I’ve always been passionate about dogs and their well-being. Transitioning into the dog food industry felt like a natural step—after all, it’s still about creating nutritious, flavorful food. If I can make healthy, delicious meals for humans, I can do the same for dogs. Like any business, this venture comes with challenges, and the most difficult part is ensuring that people know about it and have access to it

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Honestly, the best way to entertain anyone is through food. I’d probably hit spots like Koast , Kali, Lasita, Parks Finest,and then grab some ice cream at Wanderlust Creamery, and finish off with pizza at Lasorteds. There are so many great places, but those would be my first stops.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family . Sam Zen and Jah. They put up with a lot and still support my crazy ideas. My best friend Michael Dimaguila and my boy Jacob Bell. Just two people right off the top of my head who have always been supportive.

Website: https://Doggybaggs.co

Instagram: Doggybaggsco