|
Interview with Lyn Townshend , Inventor of the Strock™
1. How did you come up with the idea?
My dog, Buddy, hurt one paw back in late October of 2005 that wasn't very serious or required any medical attention, however, it was irritating him and he began licking his paw which was headed for infection. The only alternative my veterinarian had to offer was to put the Elizabethan collar (the lamp shade) on him to keep him from licking the wound, but it also restricts his entire body. So I decided to invent this new product which would cover the leg he needed to stop irritating yet keep him mobile and comfortable. It's a combination of a strap and sock that I've dubbed "The Strock" (patent pending).
2. How long did it take to bring your idea to market?
Once I came up with the prototype, I auditioned for the TV show on ABC, The American Inventor, and actually made it through to the second round of the auditions in January 2006. Although I didn't win anything on the show, I received excellent encouragement to bring this product to market because every dog and cat owner that's experienced having to use the E collar or the booties that just fall right off would also need The Strock". I found a manufacturer in March of this year that's been handling that aspect since. And, of course, acquired the patent protection needed. From there, it became necessary to establish my new company, Best Buddy Pet Products, Inc.
3. What makes your product unique?
The "Strock" is truly unique because it's the only product of its kind that actually straps up over the animal's body keeping the sock over the leg yet allowing blood and air flow down the legs, which helps in healing. Animals wearing The Strock" remain completely comfortable and mobile while wearing one, so it keeps them happier and healthier.
4. Are you planning any enhancements/improvements to the product?
One product at a time! I definitely have more ideas for future products and expansion.
5. What is your professional background? Did that line of work or education help you in developing this product?
I was an Administrative Assistant for most of my adult working life and also served 10 proud years in the U.S. Air Force. I can't credit any of my professional experience to helping develop this product, but I attribute it to my lifelong love for animals and always wanting them to be happy and healthy. Inventing a product and learning everything involved in launching my own company has been extremely challenging yet equally rewarding!
6. Throughout the entire inventive/manufacturing process what was the hardest obstacle you faced?
My hardest obstacle has been in getting veterinarians to begin using The "Strock" as a viable alternative to treatment on leg injuries. Although every one of them, without exception, has stated that they dislike the E collar, I am finding that most people are hesitant to change what's familiar to them. It's not an obstacle I've completely overcome yet but I continue to chip away at it every single day. My company, Best Buddy Pet Products, Inc. is currently featured in the August 2006 issue of INC Magazine which should go a long way in knocking down that particular obstacle.
7. What type of pets do you own?
I have one special boy, Buddy, who is a Bichon-Maltese mix that is the "star" of all the pictures featured on our website, www.bestbuddypetproducts.com. He's a wonderful 5-year old that has inspired this entire journey.
8. Is there anything else you'd like readers to know about you or your product?
This product truly is all about helping our beloved animals. They give us so much unconditional love and joy in our lives that I think they deserve a product that will help in keeping them more comfortable and mobile in times when they really need it. I just ask that each person that agrees with that to just give it a try and I know you'll agree that it's a tremendous help to our pets.
|
