RESTON, Va. (March 21, 2025) – Volkswagen of America, Inc., in collaboration with KONG® and VCA Charities, today announced the launch of a limited-edition VW KONG For a Cause dog toy inspired by the Volkswagen ID. Buzz available while supplies last. For every toy purchased, VW, KONG and VCA Charities will donate another to local shelters. All the profits from the net sales proceeds will be donated to VCA Charities to benefit dogs in need through its nationwide network of animal shelters.

“At Volkswagen, we believe in the power of connection–between people, and their pets. 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. We’re delighted to partner with KONG and VCA Charities to extend this connection to those who need it most, ensuring that more dogs experience the love and joy they deserve.”

– Rachael Zaluzec, SVP, Customer Experience & Brand Marketing, Volkswagen of America

Many recognize KONG as one of the most beloved dog toy brands, but few know its unexpected origin story—one that forever connects Volkswagen and animal lovers. The KONG legacy began in an auto repair shop in Denver, where founder Joe Markham’s German Shepherd, Fritz, discovered a spare rubber axle stop from a Volkswagen Type 2 Bus. That moment not only inspired the creation of the popular KONG toy but also forged a lasting bond between Volkswagen enthusiasts and pet lovers, enriching the lives of dogs everywhere.

Now, nearly 50 years later, Volkswagen has brought the Type 2 Bus into the future with the launch of the retro-inspired, all-electric ID. Buzz. To commemorate this remarkable connection and celebrate National Puppy Day, KONG and Volkswagen have collaborated on a specially designed, ID. Buzz-inspired dog toy, engineered for canines everywhere, in the iconic cabana blue color.

“At KONG, we believe that Dogs Need to Play, and 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.”

– Brian Decker, VP of Marketing, KONG

For every toy purchased, Volkswagen will partner with KONG and VCA Charities to donate another to a local shelter. Every purchase of this limited-edition KONG toy will further help make a difference, with 100% of the net proceeds going to VCA Charities and its nationwide network of animal shelters, supporting pets in need across the country.

“VCA Charities is committed to the joy of pet ownership by helping pets find and remain in loving homes. 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.”

– Kim Van Sync, Executive Director, VCA Charities

The limited-edition KONG  toy inspired by the Volkswagen ID.Buzz is priced at $13.99 (plus applicable taxes and shipping costs) and a limited quantity is currently available for purchase while supplies last through vw.com and Volkswagen’s enthusiast gear site, drivergear.vw.com. Pet lovers can take part in this initiative by purchasing a toy and spreading the joy to dogs everywhere.

For more information, visit VW.com or follow @VW on Instagram + Volkswagen of America on LinkedIn for updates.