Our Story
It all started with a rescue cat, a golden retriever puppy, and a family that can't resist a good pun.
How It All Began
Monterey was adopted from Katie's Place, a cat shelter in Maple Ridge, BC, in November 2023. She came with her name, and it stuck. A classic tuxedo cat—black and white with all the attitude—she quickly became the queen of a household with two young girls (ages 3 and 6 at the time) who showered her with love.
For years, the family's oldest daughter had been asking for a dog. In 2025, they found the right breeder and knew immediately it was time. While brainstorming names, someone made the connection: "Monterey... Jack. Monterey Jack."
The whole family groaned. Then laughed. Then it stuck.
Jack is expected to arrive in April 2026. The name was too cheesy not to build something around. Monterey × Jack was born: a pet brand celebrating the quirky, joyful chaos of life with animals.
Meet Monterey
Monterey is a tuxedo lady with impeccable taste and strong opinions about everything. She was rescued from Katie's Place Cat Shelter in Maple Ridge, BC in November 2023.
With her classic black and white coat, white mittens, and majestic chest floof, she rules the household with gentle authority. She tolerates the two young girls who adore her, allows occasional belly rubs, and takes her job as Chief Product Tester very seriously.
If it doesn't meet Monterey's standards (which are high), it doesn't make the cut.
Meet Jack
Jack is a golden retriever puppy who'll be joining the team in April 2026.
We can't wait to meet him. Jack will serve as Head of Dog Products, bringing his expertise in fetch, treats, and general enthusiasm to everything we do.
We have a feeling Monterey is going to pretend she doesn't like him. She'll come around. Probably.
Coming Soon
April 2026
Wait... Monterey Jack? Like the cheese?
Yep! When we got Monterey, we knew we'd eventually get a dog named Jack. It was too perfect not to. The brand name is a playful nod to the classic cheese—creamy, comforting, and universally loved. Just like our pets.
A Family Thing
We're a family in British Columbia with two young daughters who believe pets make life better. More patient. More present. And a little less serious. MxJ exists to celebrate that bond—and to give back to the shelters that make rescue stories like Monterey's possible.
What We Believe
Authenticity
Real stories, real pets, real connection.
Playfulness
Life with pets is messy and funny. Embrace it.
Community
Supporting local shelters and the people who run them.
Quality
Fewer things, made well, designed with intention.