When Tobi and Simone Skovron first came up with the concept for The Pet Loo, it was an idea born from pure - a solution to a very common problem that pet owners all around the world were facing.

 

As cities grow larger and housing becomes more expensive, not everyone has the luxury of a backyard. And it is for this reason that The Pet Loo wasn’t just a solution that suited Tobi and Simone, but a solution for all pet owners across the globe.

 

One year ago we joined forces with Oak Thrift Corporation so that The Pet Loo could be purchased in the UK – a country with one of the highest numbers of per ownership.

 

There are 27 million pets in the UK and 43% of households contain at least one furry, feathery or scaly family friend, making pets well and truly part of the UK’s landscape.

 

* 39% of London’s pet owners purchase their pet for companionship, despite living in the UK’s highest populated city.

 

* 39% of London pet owners feel the need for companionship despite having over 7.5 million neighbours across the city

 

* Over a quarter (27%) of the UK’s pets were bought or acquired from an animal welfare or rescue centre compared to 20% from a pet shop[1]

The Pet Loo isn’t just for people living with pets in apartments either. Dogs, and owners, who have backyards, may not be so keen on venturing outside in the cold winter months, when they could both stay cozy and warm with a Pet Loo inside the house. Boat owners can stay out longer on the water with Fido having easy access to his own Loo. And elderly pet owners moving to retirement villages are able to keep their pets with them, no longer having to surrender them to the pound.

With an estimated 100,000 pets abandoned every year in the UK, The Pet Loo is the perfect solution to a large majority of abandonment causes.

Pets are a wonderful companion and give us years of joy. Why not ensure their longevity in your family, and make pet toileting much easier for you both, by picking up a Pet Loo today?

Visit www.oakthrift.com

By Janet Storm

The Daily Reflector

Donna Whitfield doesn’t travel alone.

When she packs for vacation, the Plymouth resident prepares a special suitcase for her 4-year-old Jack Russell terrier, Skipper.

“I can’t think of traveling and Skipper not going with me,” Whitfield said. “She is family.”

Skipper’s bag contains such essentials as a treat ball, pig ears, and “night night puppies” — small stuffed animals that spend the night in the terrier’s traveling crate.

“On one trip to my mother’s I forgot the ‘night, night puppies,’” Whitfield said. “Skipper cried or barked all night. I had to go the next day and purchase a stuffed puppy, and put it inside my sweater so it would have my scent on it.

“Skipper slept all night with the new puppy,” she said. “I have never made that mistake again.” 

A growth industry

The popularity of traveling with pets is hardly surprising in light of statistics from the American Pet Products Association.

Last year, Americans spent more than $45 billion on their pets, and 62 percent of all households in the United States include an animal companion. That adds up to more than 77.5 million dogs and 93.6 million cats.

Jason Halliburton, who operates the pet travel Web site bringfido.com with his wife, said that although the overall travel industry took a hit when the United States’ economy faltered, traveling with pets is becoming more common.

“We’ve seen exponential growth in the past four years, said Halliburton, whose site hosted more than a million visitors in 2009. “It’s become increasingly popular for people to bring their pets along when they travel. It’s a great alternative to kenneling or hiring a pet sitter.

“A number of hotels charge no fee for pets, or have a very reasonable fee in the $10 to $15 range,” he said. “Because of that, it can actually be less expensive to travel with a pet that to make other arrangements.”

Eddie Beverly of Greenville said he and his two rat terriers, Pee Wee and Whitey, have received a warm welcome at La Quinta Inns.

“It can be hard to find a pet-friendly hotel, and we’ve found La Quinta to be the best,” he said.

A regular routine

Halliburton said pets typically do very well once they become accustomed to traveling.

“Some can be a little fussy, but once they get settled, they usually adjust,” he said.

Preparing pets for travel can be as simple as maintaining a regular routine, he said.

“Some animals can get a little anxious when they see the pet carrier, so it’s best to keep things as normal as possible in advance of a trip,” Halliburton said.

When bringing an animal on a flight, he recommends that owners refrain from feeding it for four hours before takeoff and taking it out for a bathroom break before heading into the airport.

Owners can, and should, continue to give pets water right up to the time of travel, he said. “It’s important to keep them hydrated.”

Driving vacations are a bit easier, Halliburton said, because owners can stop every few hours to allow their pets bathroom breaks and give them a little exercise.

Whitfield said that when she and Skipper make trips in the car, the terrier curls up in a crate, seat belted into place. To make the journey more pleasant, Whitfield fills the crate with “a treat or two, a stuffed toy and the purple cow toy I had for Skipper the day I picked her up and brought her home.”

 

Stemming misbehavior

Halliburton said owners occasionally express fears about their pets misbehaving once they arrive at the hotel. That’s understandable, since animals will be surrounded by unfamiliar scents and sounds, and may even run into other traveling pets.

“When dogs are anxious they may start barking, and the best you can do is to help them make that room their room,” Halliburton said.

“A special toy or favorite blanket may calm them. And it’s best to spend as much time as you can in the room initially so they can get comfortable.”

Whitfield said that Skipper once struggled to adjust to a rental house during a trip to Sunset Beach.

“The first two nights, Skipper wanted to bark all night — even with me in the room with her,” Whitfield said. “But after the second night, she was no problem.

“Everyone wanted to know if I had given her cough medicine she was so quiet and good. She was just comfortable with the new place.”

When Bill and Mercedes Ervin of Greenville travel with Honey, their 6 1/2-year-old cairn terrier, they always bring along her food, treats, water, toys and bowls.

“When she’s out, she is always on her leash,” Bill Ervin said.

Honey has never been on a plane, but Mercedes Ervin said she the dog was on her best behavior while taking a ferry ride in Virginia.

“She was fascinated with the water and the sea gulls,” Mercedes Ervin said.

Planning ahead

More and more hotels are opening their doors to pet guests, but Halliburton pointed out that the majority still do not. That makes planning ahead important.

“Some hotels have designated areas for pets and they impose a limit on the number of pets they will accept each night,” he said. “It’s always advisable to call ahead. Traveling from hotel to hotel looking for one that accepts pets can just make the day that much longer.”

Pet owners have a range of choice in accommodations, from budget to high-end, Halliburton said.

“Many budget hotels have low or no fees, but policies for high-end hotels vary,” he said. “Some charge between $75 and $100 per stay, while others don’t charge a pet fee at all.”

Popular pet-friendly chains often attract more four-legged guests, which can be hard on temperamental animals, Halliburton said.

“Most high-end hotels will have fewer animals, so that can make the stay more comfortable if your pet has some anxiety issues,” he said.

Some tourist attractions also have pet accommodations.

Mercedes Ervin said one of Honey’s favorite trips is to Busch Gardens.

“She gets to stay in the motel and at the kennels at the park,” Ervin said. “All you have to do is say ‘Busch Gardens’ and she is ready to go.”[1]

Pup-Pee Solutions are committed to developing innovative pet waste management products and the introduction of their latest development; the Pee-Pod is a true example of that.

Click here to see it in action

Pee-Pods have been developed to kill harmful airborne bacteria contained in pet waste. The innovative Pee-Pod is a biodegradable container that fits neatly inside the catchment jug of your Pet Loo, on contact the Wee Sponge (powder) acts like a magnet rapidly absorbing the liquid waste turning it into a solidified gel.

The result significantly reduces bacteria and airborne odours, further increasing the performance of your Pets Loo. A TRUE REVOLUTION!!!!!

Pee-Pods have been scientifically formulated using patented technology to blend nature and science – creating a product that uses natural materials to give supernatural results.

With the Wee Sponge in the Pee-Pod, The Pet Loo’s catchment jug is able to hold at least 100 times its weight in liquid and binds odours in a way like no other.

The Pee-Pod and the Wee Sponge are completely safe to humans and pets, and have been engineered using biodegradable materials, further reducing the carbon footprint of pet waste.

With a lifespan of up to 3 days per Pee-Pod, once full simply replace with a fresh one!

One Size fits all sized Pet Loo*

Follow Pup-Pee on Twitter: www.twitter.com/PetLoo

Official Press Release: Click Here

 

 

*Version 3 

Cynthia Frank is one of a growing number of pet owners using social networking sites to show off their animals and connect with other pet lovers.

Since she and her husband separated, Frank can't be with her dog, Scout, every day, but she can share news about her and get updates on Dogbook, a third-party application of Facebook. 

"It left a big hole in my life when she went to live with my husband … then we got connected on Dogbook," said Frank, 58, of Silver Spring, Md., who also maintains a profile of her cat, Cinnamon, at Catbook. "The fun part is that I can send little messages to Scout," which are read by friends.

Frank can give the pup virtual hugs and ear-scratches. She's also been able to hook up with old friends and their pets through the applications, including a woman she went to high school with and her cat. "It makes me feel like I'm more connected," Frank said.

At Dogbook, canine owners can create Facebook profiles for their animals, find dog parks and products, and tag their dogs in photos. Major advertisers on the app include Purina, Toyota and Coke.

Geoffrey B. Roche, cofounder of Poolhouse Industries, which produces Dogbook and other pet pages, said the idea came to him a few years ago at the dinner table, and it took off quickly. Now, there are about 2 million users on Dogbook and about 1 million on Catbook, he said.

The sites work, he thinks, because people see their pets as more than just animals.

"The dog goes way beyond what was just a dog. It becomes a family member," he said.

"This is a great way to keep track of pets' lives." Users "are as excited to show you pictures of their dog as much as their kid, if not more," he said.

Dogbook's recently launched iPhone application passed 80,000 downloads after just two weeks.

Brandee Barker, a Facebook spokeswoman, said Dogbook has nearly 800,000 active monthly users, followed by about 175,000 on Catbook, 31,000 on Horsebook, 3,900 on Rodentbook and nearly 1,900 on Fishbook.

"From the beginning, our goal has been to provide a platform for people to connect and share about anything that might interest them, and clearly people are very passionate about their pets," Barker said. "So, I think it's a natural extension."

Facebook doesn't allow pet profiles on its main site, where it tries to foster "the real-name culture" and keep up security, Barker said.

Other social networking sites, including Twitter and MySpace, also allow people to post updates and create profiles for pets. One popular cat page at Twitter goes by the handle "Sockington" and boasts more than 1.5 million followers who receive Sockington's (or Sockington's owner's) random thoughts. At MySpace, there are thousands of pet pages and nearly 200 pet-related applications listed in its applications gallery.

Pet-related businesses are using social networking sites to reach and educate customers. For example, Petco has more than 15,000 fans on Facebook, and joins conversations on Twitter in which customers ask each other and the company questions and share advice on products.

Natalie Malaszenko, director of e-commerce for Petco, said establishing a relationship with customers is good for business. "It helps us to have an insight and a seat at the table in the life cycle of their pets," she said. [1]

Pet Loo uses Twitter – Follow Us!

www.twitter.com/PetLoo

About 71 million U.S. households have at least one of these little rascals, running about the backyard, snuggling under the covers or begging for attention. They're not children, but pets. Sometimes lovingly referred to as "part of the family," these creatures are what draw thousands of business people to Global Pet Expo. With most expos and shows, it’s about the buyer coming to, well, buy.[1]

The Global Pet Expo is the pet industry's largest annual trade show.

It is presented by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) and Pet Industry Distributors Association (PIDA). The 2009 Show featured 779 exhibitors, 2,306 booths and more than 3,000 new product launches. 41,000 pet product buyers from around the world attended.

In 2010, Global Pet Expo will take place March 25-27 in Orlando, FL. Global Pet Expo is open to independent retailers, distributors, mass-market buyers, and other qualified professionals. (The show is not open to the public.)[2]

From canine prescription lenses, dog car seats and hi-tech water bowls to microprocessor-controlled smart aquariums, DVDs for cats and cookbooks for birds, the products unveiled at Global Pet Expos over the years demonstrate the innovative thinking and entrepreneurial spirit of pet product manufacturers.[3]

2010 will mark the second year that The Pet Loo team has exhibited at Global Pet Expo. So come along and see us in booth #621

More – Click Here

[1] The Orlando Sentinel (Orlando, FL), February 23, 2007

[2 http://globalpetexpo.org/Default.asp?gclid=CIGn1ICr158CFQQupAodhkWHaw

[3] Business Wire, March 29, 2005

At just 28 years-old, Tobi Skovron knows what it takes to turn an idea into a multi-national business – hard work, determination and a really great product. His idea? “A backyard in a box” called The Pet Loo.

In 2006, Tobi and his wife Simone formed Pup-Pee Solutions Pty Ltd which manufactures The Pet Loo and a line of pet waste management products. They launched their hero product, The Pet Loo, the same year. The invention received a kick-start from Australian national television show 'The New Inventors' when the public voted it Australia's favorite new product.

Pup-Pee Solutions is now Australia's leading designer and manufacturer of pet products which it exports to more than 75 countries, including the United States. In 2009 Tobi moved to Los Angeles with his wife Simone and dogs Subii and Coopa to grow Pup-Pee Solutions’ U.S. business.

Direct Marketing Digest: What was your life like when you were young? Were your parent’s business owners, or show other entrepreneurial traits?

Tobi Skovron: I was born and raised in Sydney Australia. My parents were hard workers that wanted to ensure their kids (my sisters and I) didn’t go without. My dad was an entrepreneur who changed the landscape of his industry and some twelve years after his passing, his products and ideas still lead the automotive industry –www.asnu.com.

My inspiration is my father for doing things his way and my main motivation is to make my family (wife, mum, sisters and extended family) proud. It is the support of my immediate family that drives me and without their support and encouragement I wouldn’t be half way to where I’m right now. I value my support structure and it’s a large part of who I am.

 

DMD: Were there any business people you looked up to, or wanted to be like?

TS: Not really business people, more athletes.

It takes hard work, not just talent, to become the best in your field. Michael Jordan was my childhood hero, not only because he was the best in his era but because he was a competitor, a hard worker and the kind of person who was in the gym first and last to leave. He didn’t just happen; it was the years of hard work that made him into the Michael Jordan the world knows!

 

DMD: What was your first work experience?

TS: I was a Junior Basketball coach at my school and local club. The lessons I learnt doing layups and playing defense still guide the way I run my day-to-day business.

 

DMD: Why did you want to start your own business?

TS: For anyone that knows me personally, they know I am a highly motivated individual. While I respect corporate structures and the 9-5 grind, it’s just not for me.

I love to conceptualize, create, package, sell, deliver, expand and everything that goes along with running your own business. Working for someone is not even a consideration – I need to do my own thing, my way, from beginning to the end, it makes me tick!

 

DMD: Were you entrepreneurial at an early age? For instance, did you sell lemonade on the corner, shovel sidewalks or deliver newspapers? And if so, did your parents push you that way, or was it more part of your DNA?

TS: Yes, it is in my blood, it’s in my family and I believe I’m a born leader!

My parents didn’t push me, but my mum certainly gave me the support I needed. She has been on the sideline from day one, cheering me on. Recently, my father-in-law has been a great mentor and supporter even coming with me on round the world trips.

 

DMD: Were you involved in another business before you started the business you're in now? If yes, What happened with it?

TS: I was involved in a corporate health company and on the side ran private sessions as a personal trainer. Personal training was never a long term career, but is certainly built my skill set and gave me experience in strategic planning and setting goals. It also taught me how to deal with people, take care of those people and ensure they achieve their goals – I believe these are the basic skills of any CEO.

 

DMD: Did you ever have a business idea you didn’t act on?

TS: No, never. I do what I say and say what I feel.

 

DMD: How did you get into the "business you're in now"? How did the “Big Idea” come to you?

TS: It all came about from “need” from there it evolved into “if I need this, who else does”. Simone, my wife and I moved into an apartment with our dogs – we were both working long hours and needed a solution to those in between times when we couldn’t take our dogs outside to “do their business”.

 

DMD: Did you layout a detailed business plan for it, or was it more a napkin-sized outline?

TS: Everything is detailed, but I’ve moved away from the “business plan” and focused on the “strategic plan”. I believe it’s the daily strategy that delivers the results. I see the “strategic plan” as the short terms goals – as in what is on today and the “business plan” is the long term program – as in this year’s goal!

 

DMD: How did you finance your start up? i.e. Savings, Family, Mortgage, Loan, Angel, Private Investors?

TS: I borrowed some money from a family member. This gave me enough to register patents, and get some samples made up. From there, I sold, sold, sold. For the first year and a half I didn’t take a salary, and put everything we made back into the company. I worked two jobs and some ridiculous hours to make it happen.

Today, there is no debt in the company, we are cash flow positive and self sustaining. The initial loan was paid back almost overnight after generating fantastic interest and sales.

 

DMD: What are your thoughts about having and/or dealing with business partners? Some businesses partnerships seem to thrive, while it destroys others. If you had partners, how did you decide on an exit strategy?

TS: We established an exit strategy before we entered into the agreement. I believe it is important to stick to what you’re good at and allow others to do what they are good at.

Pup-Pee Solutions has three shareholders; everyone brings different skills to the company so in our case we’ve thrived. Early on we established that during business hours, it’s strictly business and nothing personal. Just like “white line fever” in sport – once you cross that line, you do what you have to do to win the game (in an ethical manner, of course) but at the end of the day it’s great to celebrate successes together.

 

DMD: Did you have a detailed spending plan in place for the money you started with? If so, in ballpark percentage terms, how was the money spent; (product/inventory, marketing, employees, tools/equipment, location of operation.) Or was it more, I have this much money to start and I’m going to wing it the best I can?

TS: Our start-up money was spent protecting intellectual property and creating some off-tool samples. From there the business had to stand on its own. Our first sales allowed us to manufacture inventory, do more marketing and promotion, then hiring new people. After a year we could better forecast growth, we added structure, more people and more inventory.

 

DMD: As your business progressed, was your growth self-financed through its own success? Or, did you need to raise outside money to grow? If you needed outside capital, how did you get it?

TS: Totally self financed. I don’t like to be in debt, so our aim is to sell, sell, sell, and reinvest revenue into expanding the company. We don’t spend what we don’t have, or borrow to make things happen.

 

DMD: What worked the best for you when you start promoting your company?

TS: The concept of The Pet Loo was great in theory but we needed to demonstrate this to retailers who reluctant to carry a new product, unproven in the market. I backed my products by giving well-known retailers The Pet Loo on consignment for 30 days. On the back end, I invested in PR to gain exposure in the media, drive traffic to my website and stores.

 

DMD: What DID NOT work for you?

TS: Giving payment terms to retailers. Some retailers early on took advantage and dodged paying bills when they became due.

 

DMD: Was there any big break that really got you off the ground?

TS: I applied to go on an Australian television show called The New Inventors and received a letter thanking me for my application and informing me that if my invention was chosen I’d hear back from them within 8 months. I got the call within three days, the following week we were in Sydney filming the show which went to air two weeks later. During that two weeks I recruited a PR firm to ensure every media contact they had watched the show. After that we were inundated with interest, sales and media opportunities.

 

DMD: What is the smartest thing you’ve done while running your company?

TS: I recognized very quickly that while I have the drive and hunger to succeed, it is so important to seek the advice and assistance from mentors and accomplished business people. I believe that we’ve been so successful because I’m not shy to ask questions.

 

DMD: What was the toughest time or “unexpected challenge” you experienced when you started your business, and how did you get through it?

TS: I have met a lot of honest, hardworking people but I’ve also come into contact with some very dishonest and unethical people. Unfortunately, you often find out who’s who the hard way. We had to see out the contractual arrangements we had with one of these people which put us behind, but it taught us an important lesson about forming relationships with the right people for the right reasons.

 

DMD: What do you think was/is the key factor that made YOU successful, when so many others have failed in starting and building a business?

TS: My approach is to deliver innovative products with first class customer service. From day one to date, that’s exactly what I’ve done.

I’ve focused on building relationships with key customers and delivered quality products on time, every time. This builds credibility and encourages word of mouth promotion. The biggest obstacle is to form the first relationship; from there you earn people’s trust and respect and expand your opportunities. People do business with people they like – I’d like to think I’m a likable person and if not, a very hard working, honest one!

 

DMD: When you’re making business decisions, are you more likely to go with your head or your gut?

TS: There is a fine line, I often go with wearing my heart on sleeve but with time learning to create a balance between both – It definitely comes with experience.

 

DMD: When do you do your best thinking?

TS: If it’s not at 3am when I wake with a rush of ideas then it’s definitely when out on my bike at 5:30am.

 

DMD: How have things changed in marketing since you started, and how has it stayed the same? What do you think the future holds for marketing your company?

TS: Right now I’m still doing what I did to get this business to where it is today. Our operations out of Australia are well established. This year I relocated to join my US-based team - I often think to myself “what did I do to get Pet Loo Australia to where it is today” then I work out a strategy for a population 10-times the size.

 

DMD: Do you have any worries about the future that may affect your company? And if so, what are you doing now to be prepared?

TS: When you have a successful product you are bound to become a target for counterfeiters. While we have very strong registered intellectual property (Patents, Copyrights, Trademarks, Design Protection etc.) and plan to protect our rights when threats surface, this causes me the most anxiety.

 

DMD: How educated do you think you have to be to start and build a business? Do you think you need a college education to be successful? Or do you think any average person can start and build a business in today’s world, if they work hard and are persistent?

TS: If you’re passionate, strategic and apply yourself accordingly you’re off to a good start! At Pup-Pee Solutions we have employees with and without degrees. Education is important but if you don’t love what you’re doing it doesn’t matter how many degrees you have. Surround yourself with people who have been successful in their time (advisors), people with common sense, drive, and determination.

 

DMD: Which is more important, talent or experience?

TS: I have drive, energy and vision BUT still have a lot to learn. I’ve implemented a board of directors to advise me and channel my energy – it’s this mix that has put Pup-Pee where it is today.

 

DMD: What is better, Money or Ideas?

TS: In 2003, Simone and I had a fantastic idea – The Pet Loo, being 22 & 23 years old at the time our access to cash was limited. We obviously needed money to bring our “idea” to life and then to market. While money certainly allowed us to get to market I think it’s far more important to understand “profit and loss”. You categorically need to be able to sell product and make a margin on it to make your business sustainable.

 

DMD: What’s the best advice you’ve received?

TS: Don’t live beyond your means. Put simply, if it’s not in the bank, I’m not buying.

DMD: What most impresses you about a person?

TS: Passion, efficiency, attention to detail and initiative.

 

DMD: What’s one thing they should have told you, about being a business leader?

TS: There is no such thing as a 9-5 job. If you have to work all night to meet deadlines – then that’s what you have to do. And, never compromise your values.

 

DMD: In your experience and opinion, is there any industry/business you would advise people to stay away from today. If so, why?

TS: No. Follow your dreams and passion! Do what makes you happy.

 

DMD: Are there any areas you see right now that you think offer great opportunity to get into today?

TS: Certainly. There are many companies in the industry that are folding. I see that as an opportunity to buy brands or companies and incorporate them into our corporate structure. I don’t want to dilute our existing brands but I know that it’s smart to diversify.

 

DMD: Who inspires you now?

TS: So many different people from all areas: Family, my Mum – her strength and determination will rival anyone. Extended Family, my father-in-law – cool, calm and collected in his approach to everything. Sportsman, Michael Jordan – he’s the best there ever was and potentially ever will be at what he did. Business, Richard Branson – I just love his approach and “out of the box thinking.” Immediate circle, Mark Stern – former president of United Pet Group, a global pet industry KING!

 

DMD: What’s the most overlooked secret to success?

Answer: Hard work! Nothing happens over night and sacrifices need to be made along the way. Some people who walk into a pet store will see our products and assume “that guy is making big bucks” but the effort to get it into stores is underrated.

 

DMD: Do you have any pointers or words of wisdom to give Entrepreneurs and small businesses that want to follow in your footsteps?

TS:

1. Surround yourself with people that have been there and done that. Understand where you’re at as a professional and don’t be shy to ask questions and learn.

2. Make sure you get advice from people who aren’t emotionally involved and can be objective about your business idea.

3. Protect yourself and your ideas. Discuss your ideas under confidentiality. If product related, register patents. These are invaluable when dealing with the big customers.

4. Back yourself. Don’t let anyone tell you can’t do it. This only comes into effect after points 1, 2 & 3 have been ticked!

 

DMD: Do you have any words to live by?

TS: Activity leads to results!

 

Personal and Company details if public:

Year Company founded: 2006, after 3 years of Research & Development

Number of employees: 12

Short Company Description: Pup-Pee Solutions are pursuing their goal of being a worldwide solution in the category of pet waste management. Pup-Pee has proven their success in multiple markets worldwide with their product range. More info:www.thepetloo.com

Interviewee’s age: 28

Hometown: Sydney, Australia. Relocated to Los Angeles, California in 2009.

Family: Wife Simone, two dogs Subii & Coopa.

 

Article written by: Direct Marketing Digest 

http://www.directmarketingdigest.com/node/15 

 

One Of Pet Loo's Favourite Retailers   

 

Born in Los Angeles, CA, Andrew Kim first fell in love with dogs when his parents decided to bring two Rottweiler puppies, KoKo and Magic, into their family at an early age. Growing up with his dogs, he completely cherished his special relationship with his four-legged childhood companions. This early exposure left an indelible emotional impression, attachment and love for dogs.

 

After high school, Andrew moved out of Los Angeles to Northern California to attend University of California Berkeley. While living away in the Bay Area after graduation, both his dogs passed away. He was deeply saddened and felt an emotional void in his life. There was an undeniable feeling of emptiness when he came home to visit and didn't see the family dogs come to greet him. Everyone in the family was clearly affected by the loss.

 

After college, Andrew continued to stay in the Bay Area building a successful career at a hedge fund. Although he was in a lucrative profession, Andrew realized in his heart that he should be doing more with his time. He found contributing his time to help others more rewarding than his current career path and wanted to make a positive impact in the community. Andrew's new path would soon be revealed to him unknowingly.

 

Hearing through a friend that there was a couple who couldn't keep their dog and was giving the puppy away, he decided that he would adopt the puppy and give the Shi-Tzu Terrier mix a new home. That is when his new love, Maya Pyaari, came into his life and planted the seeds for HEALTHY SPOT.

 

During the March 2007 Massive Pet Food Recall, Andrew grew scared about the dangers of commercial pet foods and began researching pet food and nutrition. He was appalled by the detriments and nutritional deficiencies of the major pet foods available on the market. He was determined to seek out the best products and approaches to feed his newfound puppy. This passion led to the start of his new venture, HEALTHY SPOT.

 

Talking to his friends with dogs, he quickly realized that many people did not know what was available to properly provide nutritional care for their furry loved ones. Many owners honestly felt overwhelmed in trying to evaluate what ingredients or formulas were best. Andrew realized there was a strong need for a retailer to be the partner of the dog owner in pre-selecting the best products for their dog. Andrew believed that by providing education and access to the best available nutritional products, he could positively impact the lifestyle of the dog and their owner. A healthy dog is a happy dog and a happy dog makes a happy owner. Andrew found his calling with his vision of HEALTHY SPOT and moved to Los Angeles to begin building this new home of the highest quality products.

 

Andrew called Mark about his relocation to the area and his vision of HEALTHY SPOT. During this time Mark had also come to similar conclusions about his life. After several years in advertising, he left his career in search of a venture that he could be more passionate about. During the conversation, Mark completely understood Andrew's passion and vision and was flushed with memories of Biscuit. He never understood why his friend was stricken with such a horrible disease when he had always sought proper veterinary care and fed him premium dog food. Mark's passion for canines and love for his life long friend, Biscuit, had not left him to that day and he was quickly on board with Andrew's vision of HEALTHY SPOT.

 

They knew this was more than mere coincidence. Sharing in the same passion, Andrew and Mark continued to evolve and hone their vision of HEALTHY SPOT together. They cemented their commitment to build a friendly, knowledgeable and caring 'SPOT' to fulfill the needs and passions of dog owners today. HEALTHY SPOT is their shared dream of giving back to the memory of their dogs for their years of loving companionship and shared goal of impacting the world by elevating the standard of care and lifestyle of our four-legged family members.

 

HEALTHY SPOT, for your dogs mind, body and bowl.

www.healthyspotonline.com

 

The Call of the Red Carpet

Pet Loo at the Golden Globes 

Buddha Bark is the premiere wellness, pampering and gifting lounge for celebrities, media, tastemakers and their dogs to primp and prepare for the Golden Globe Awards held this year on January 15th and 16th.  

The Buddha Bark event series is the first to bring together top experts and brands from both the health and fitness world and the canine wellness community to honor wellness and the spirit of compassion. The zen garden oasis environment was fun and relaxing while supporting an important cause - to stop puppy mills and encourage animal rescue.

The Los Angeles Times reports; “The fashion community in Los Angeles has tripled, maybe even quadrupled, now that the Golden Globes are upon us. The world's finest jewel-encrusted clutches and cuff links, slinky gowns and tuxedo shirts are being messengered around the city for celebrities to consider.

And G-D forbid the purse dogs be left out. At Buddha Bark, a lounge being held in the garden setting of hairstylist Chaz Dean's studio, celebs and their furry friends will be treated to a doggie fashion show, pet psychics and canine massages.”[1] 

But, Buddha Bark is not just about fashion, glitz and glam. They are about extending the circle of compassion by educating and promoting a lifestyle of harmony and wellness between humans and their canine companions.[2]

The Pet Loo was featured throughout the lounge for gifting, sampling, and photo opportunities.

Click Here to See our Photos:

• Jason Biggs and his wife with Sim & Tobi from Pet Loo
• Hal Sparks with Sim & Tobi
• Phoebe Price and Henry
• Uncle Phill (James Avery) with Amber Kane
• Jason White - From Avatar
• Eric Roberts was super impressed
• Camille Gauty from Las Vegas and Prison Break
• David Fisher from NCIS
• Hofit Golan - Israeli superstar
• Yuval David being smothered by Subii
• Sally Richards - from I am Legend (Co-Star with Will Smith)

And our very own Celebrity Sim Skovron on the Red Carpet

[1] http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/alltherage/2010/01/fashion-diary-quarterbacking-the-red-carpet.html#more

[2] http://www.buddhabark.com/content/golden-globe-celebrity-style-lounge

 

A look into Best Friends Animal Society. 

Best Friends is guided by a simple: kindness to animals builds a better world for all of us.  In the late 1980s, when Best Friends was in its early days, roughly 17 million dogs and cats were being killed in shelters every year.  Despite the commitment of shelter workers to the animals in their care, the conventional belief was that little could be done to lower that terrible number.

Best Friends' No More Homeless Pets campaign created a new vision: A grassroots effort to place dogs and cats who were considered "unadoptable" into good homes, and to reduce the number of unwanted pets through effective spay and neuter programs.  Since then, the number of dogs and cats being destroyed in shelters has fallen to approximately 5 million a year.  There has been much progress, but there is still much more to do.  

One of Best Friends new campaigns is Puppies Aren't Products.  Exposing the connection between puppy mills and pet stores, and encouraging adoption.

Right now, millions of adult dogs are suffering on the "production line" in America's puppy mills.  Their sole purpose is to breed and make money for their owners.  They live in tiny, wire-bottomed cages, in squalid conditions, with little human contact and often no veterinary care.  It is no life for man's best friend. 

Meanwhile, roughly 11,000 animals are euthanized in America's shelters every day.  There's something wrong with this picture. The goal of Best Friends' Puppies Aren't Products campaign is to create a world of No More Homeless Pets by fighting against puppy mills and irresponsible breeding.

Our campaign team saves lives by holding peaceful demonstrations at pet stores that sell puppies from mills, educating consumers about the inhumane conditions in puppy mills, encouraging people to adopt rather than buy pets, and advocating for better legislation to combat puppy mills. 

Please join us in the working toward a day when all of America's pets have what they deserve: good care, safety and love from a family of their own. [1]

 

[1] http://www.buddhabark.com/content/best-friends-animal-society-charity-partner

Launched in 2006 after 3 years of research & development by Australian entrepreneur of the year, Tobi Skovron, and former Vet nurse & animal assisted therapist Simone Skovron, Pup-Pee Solutions is an Australian business success story that has expanded worldwide. 

With offices in Melbourne Australia, Los Angeles California & New York City The Pet Loo is Pup-Pee’s flagship brand. The Pet Loo replicates a backyard and is a safe and hygienic device that allows dogs & cats to do their business in a mess free, sanitary manner. It is suitable for apartment dwellers, the elderly, office dogs, boat owners, plush garden owners, cold climates and grassless backyards.  

Pup-Pee has won multiple awards for its ever evolving Pet Waste Management range of products and has successfully sold them through tens of thousands of independent dealers, multi-chain retailers as well as national pet retail giants in numerous markets. 

Further growth is an ongoing objective for Pup-Pee and they are currently seeking multiple partners with experience to expand their current distribution channels. 

The success of Pup-Pee Solutions to date is all about innovative first class products merged with first class service. The team within the organization is highly professional, motivated and passionate about pets. Pup-Pee has built an honest and reputable name within the global pet industry servicing Vets, Doggy Day Care Centers, Breeders, Obedience Professionals & even Groomers. 

Keen to discuss business? Feel free to jump online at www.thepetloo.com to find out more about Pup-Pee Solutions – who they are and how they go about their business. 

Follow Pup-Pee on Twitter: www.twitter.com/PetLoo

Contact:

Los Angeles (Global Business): +1 310 591 8123 | Email Now

New York (US National Business): +1 646 383 8886 | Email Now

Australia (AU & NZ Business): +61 9415 8599 | Email Now

  Videos & TV appearance: www.youtube.com/PetLooUSA