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FRAMINGHAM, MA — We asked our small business owners to tell us their story, and this one started with an energetic pup and an owner who knew how to turn her dog's energy and her own into something great.
Meet Lisa and Leo:
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Hello, My name is Lisa Kamer and I’m the founder and CEO of Knots of Fun- Makers of Happy Hands Happy Dog Toys.
After a long business career I unexpectedly found myself with time on my hands. My husband and I have always loved Corgis and we were excited to bring home 12 week old Leo.
Leo quickly began teething on everything in sight and I mean EVERYTHING! To save my blankets, sofa and rugs, I began to think of ways to entertain this bursting bundle of energy. When I realized that Leo’s favorite items were made of fabric, Knots of Fun was born. I created knots of fabric and suddenly this bounding ball of movement was quietly teething on knots.
Before I entered the retail market I created fundraising kits for local not for profits. The kits have everything an organization needs to create their own toys so that they can creatively fundraise. It was my way of giving back. The kits quickly became a successful way for organizations like The Perkins and Maryland Schools for the blind and the Learning Center for the Deaf to engage their students and their community. When I saw the enthusiasm about the product I began selling my manufactured toys at small local pet boutiques and, a year later, my products are sold 25 Whole Foods Markets retailers nationwide.
Why are these toys exceptional? I’d like to begin with telling you three things about my product:
My toys are made in Massachusetts, every bit of them (fabric, manufacturing and tags). They come in a variety of color combinations.
My toys are durable, machine washable, you can freeze them and they float- dogs love them!
The toys are to be used to encourage play with your dog, after all, that’s what they really want!
My toys are not just a way to keep your dog busy, but also a great way for you to bond with your dog by encouraging play- Leo learned quickly that when he saw his toy it meant playtime. Play with your dog- It makes life better!
This business has become a dream come true. I’ve made hundreds of new relationships, met great dogs and their humans!
Our toys are available at these local retailers: Whole Foods Market Pet World Especially For Pets Wild Birds Unlimited/Sudbury. For additional retailers, please look at our website or contact me at (508) 259-0470. We are located at 9 Vernon St, Framingham
Image courtesy Happy Hands Happy Dogs
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