About AlaSkins

AlaSkins is proudly owned and operated by Sara Erickson, a third-generation Alaskan with deep ties to the land and sea. Born in Newhalen, a Yupik village nestled on the north shore of Lake Iliamna, and raised on the Kenai Peninsula, Sara grew up immersed in Alaska’s rich fishing heritage. Her childhood was spent commercial fishing alongside her family in Bristol Bay and the Cook Inlet, where she fell in love with the wild beauty of her home and the incredible health benefits of wild Alaskan seafood.

From a young age, Sara listened closely as her father spoke about the nutritional value hidden in fish skins—an often discarded byproduct of commercial fish processing. Those early conversations planted a seed that would grow into AlaSkins, a sustainable pet treat company rooted in environmental stewardship and nutrition.

🌱 Founded in 2017, AlaSkins has grown from a bold idea to a thriving business. By 2020, Sara opened her first retail store and manufacturing facility in Soldotna, Alaska. Today, AlaSkins dog treats—made from 100% wild Alaskan salmon, halibut, and cod skins—can be found in just under 100 stores across Alaska and the Lower 48. Through vision and perseverance, Sara has transformed what was once considered fish waste into a valuable, nutritious resource—and AlaSkins has now diverted over 42 tons of fish skins from the waste stream.

Thanks to this groundbreaking work, AlaSkins has earned recognition as:

• 🏆 Soldotna Business of the Year
• 🛠️ Alaska Manufacturer of the Year
• 💡 Industry Innovator

🐾 The heart and face of AlaSkins is Max, Sara’s loyal black lab, who proudly serves as our mascot. His image graces every bag, and you can follow his adventures on Instagram at @AlaSkinsMax907.

📍 Come visit us! Our production facility is located at 44761 Sterling Highway in Soldotna, overlooking the stunning Kenai River. Whether you're a local or visiting Alaska, we’d love to welcome you to see where sustainability meets tail-wagging delight.

At AlaSkins, we believe that sustainability is more than a goal—it’s a responsibility. That’s why we champion the use of wild-caught fish and reject the damaging practices of open net fish farming, which threaten the health of our oceans and ecosystems.

Alaska remains one of the last places on Earth where wild salmon still roam free, navigating vast bays, rugged coastlines, and open Pacific waters. These fish follow ancient migratory routes, returning to their birthplace to spawn, die, and nourish an intricate and breathtaking cycle of life.

🎥 Founder Sara Erickson’s fierce dedication to protecting Alaska’s wild fisheries inspired her documentary A Fishy Tale, which reveals the environmental dangers of open net fish farming and its potential threat to Alaska's salmon stocks.

🐾 Every AlaSkins treat is made from 100% wild Alaskan fish skins—salmon, halibut, and cod—sourced from the catch of sustainable, small-boat commercial fishermen. With no additives, these crunchy snacks deliver natural protein, vitamins, and essential fish oils that support canine health.

🦅 Our commitment to conservation is deeply rooted in science and respect for nature. As cited by BlueFish.org, 137 documented species rely on wild salmon—including orcas, bald eagles, Caspian terns, bears, river otters, and even amphibians and reptiles. When we protect salmon, we protect entire ecosystems.

♻️ Inspired by the Iceland Ocean Cluster’s "100% fish" model, AlaSkins brings this bold zero-waste philosophy to Alaska. That means using every part of the fish to create value, reduce waste, and support resilient coastal communities. Sara’s mission is to redefine “waste” as opportunity—transforming discarded fish skins into nutritious treats and educational tools that amplify Alaska’s leadership in global sustainability.

💬 Love AlaSkins? Your review makes a splash! Please consider sharing your experience on Google. It helps us grow and keeps tails wagging. Thank you!

— Sara