Volkswagen is taking its instantly iconic ID. Buzz electric van from the streets to the paws of dogs in need — literally. Teaming up with beloved dog toy brand KONG and VCA Charities, VW has rolled out a limited-edition “VW KONG For a Cause” dog toy inspired by the retro-styled Volkswagen ID. Buzz. But this isn’t just any chew toy. For every one purchased, another will be donated to a local shelter, while net proceeds go to VCA Charities to support nationwide dog care.
Volkswagen Cares About Pets
“At Volkswagen, we believe in the power of connection — between people and their pets,” said Rachael Zaluzec, SVP of Customer Experience & Brand Marketing at Volkswagen of America. “The ID. Buzz embodies that spirit, and this collaboration carries forward KONG’s wonderful origin story that began with a man, his best friend, and a VW bus.”
In the 1970s, KONG founder Joe Markham’s German Shepherd, Fritz, stumbled upon a spare rubber axle stop from a Volkswagen Type 2 Bus in an auto repair shop. That accidental discovery birthed the KONG toy we know today — a staple for dog owners around the world. Now, nearly five decades later, Volkswagen is tipping its hat to that serendipitous moment with a toy that combines nostalgia with a good cause.
The VW KONG
Designed in Volkswagen’s signature cabana blue, this special-edition KONG is more than just a nod to the past; it’s also a nod to the future. Each $13.99 toy (plus taxes and shipping) sold triggers another donation to an animal shelter, while the profits from the chew toy go to VCA Charities, helping thousands of shelter dogs across the country.
“At KONG, we believe that Dogs Need to Play,” said Brian Decker, VP of Marketing at KONG. “This collaboration with VW and VCA Charities allows us to spread the joys of playtime while supporting a worthy cause. There’s no better way to celebrate our history and National Puppy Day than by giving back to the pets who need it most.”
Kim Van Syck, Executive Director of VCA Charities, echoed the sentiment: “With the support of Volkswagen and KONG, we can provide much-needed enrichment and play to thousands of shelter dogs patiently waiting for a forever home.”
TopSpeed’s Take
In typical VW fashion, the ID. Buzz is about more than transportation — it’s about bringing people (and pets) together. Whether it’s a cross-country road trip or a wagging tail at the local shelter, this initiative is another reminder that some partnerships were just meant to be.
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