PetSmart Kicks Off Search for Its Next 'Chief Toy Tester'

Submissions are now open for one cat and dog to win $10,000 and their dream job testing the latest PetSmart toys and treats

PHOENIX, Oct. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- PetSmart is putting playtime to the test with the launch of its Chief Toy Tester contest. One cat and one dog (along with their humans) will snag the Chief Toy Tester title, getting the opportunity to test and review the latest toys and treats, share their feedback on upcoming collections and receive $10,000 for the fun.

Now through Nov. 6, applications can be submitted at PetSmartChiefToyTester.com.* One cat and one dog will be selected for the coveted roles, and will receive quarterly product packages filled with the newest toys, treats, apparel and gear, as well as VIPP (Very Important Pet Parent) status, the top tier and level of savings in the Treats Rewards loyalty program. Over the course of their one-year term, Chief Toy Testers will test and review products, sharing their official feedback on social media to help pets everywhere discover seasonal must-have items from PetSmart.

"Pets are at the heart of everything we do at PetSmart, and the Chief Toy Tester program brings that to life in such a fun way," said Matt Byrnes, senior vice president of merchandising at PetSmart. "It's all about celebrating the joy pets bring us every day. We love seeing pets try our new toys, treats and gear, and this program lets them share that excitement with our larger pet community. Last year's winners were so much fun to watch, and we can't wait to see which playful pets will take the spotlight this year."

Required Skills, Abilities & Experience:
The next carefully chosen Chief Toy Testers should be committed to providing the pet community with recommendations and reviews of new PetSmart products. Ideal canines and felines possess:

• The willingness to test out new toys which may require lunging, running, jumping or puzzle solving
• A nose for sniffing out the tastiest treats
• The perfect pose and strut to go down the catwalk and show off the latest pet apparel and accessories
• Human pet parents who can commit to a one-year partnership and have the ability to create high-quality, trendy social media content

Benefits:

• Bragging rights to share at the water bowl
• $10,000 cash ($2,500 check issued quarterly)
• Early access to toys, treats and more
• VIPP (Very Important Pet Parent) Treats Rewards status

How to Apply:
Pet parents can apply by filling out an application at PetSmartChiefToyTester.com. Applications close at 11:59 p.m. ET on Nov. 6, 2025. PetSmart is looking for pet parents with a keen eye for capturing strong photo and video content, both of their pet in action and in still photos. The application requires a 15-30-second video of their cat or dog, and a review of their pet's favorite toy in 200 words or less. How to stand out? Be creative and find ways to showcase their pet's personality.

Learn More:
For more information on the Chief Toy Tester opportunity and to see the full rules, visit PetSmartChiefToyTester.com. For more information on toys, treats, services and ways to shop, visit PetSmart.com. 

*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. The PetSmart 2026 Chief Toy Tester Contest is sponsored by PetSmart LLC. Open to legal residents of the 50 United States and D.C. who are 18 years of age or older and the age of majority in their jurisdiction of residence as of the date of entry and are dog or cat owners. Begins at 10:00 a.m. ET on 10/06/25 & ends 11:59 p.m. ET on 11/06/2025. Void where prohibited by law. Prize restrictions apply. For complete Official Rules, visit PetSmartChiefToyTester.com.

About PetSmart
PetSmart is the leading omni-channel pet retailer in North America with a mission to help everyone experience more joy with pets. The company offers a compelling assortment of pet care essentials, exclusive brands and must-have items for each season, along with expert pet services. With nearly 1,700 stores across the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico – plus a seamless shopping experience at PetSmart.com and through the PetSmart app – PetSmart's convenient shopping options are complete with autoship, same-day delivery and in-store pickup. Expert services include a professional grooming salon in every store, veterinary care in more than 700 locations, pet training, and Doggie Day Camp and PetsHotel overnight boarding in many locations. The PetSmart Treats Rewards loyalty program provides value to pet parents through personalized offers and points on every purchase that can be used for future savings. 

PetSmart and PetSmart Charities have a long-standing commitment to supporting pets and people in the communities they serve, and PetSmart Charities is the largest funder of animal welfare in North America. Together, they are proud to have helped more than 11 million pets find loving homes through in-store pet adoption programs. For more information, visit PetSmart.com.

SOURCE PetSmart