Family hoping to clean up after dog invention

26/10/2007

A FAMILY have come up with a innovative solution to one of the least pleasurable aspects of owning a dog -cleaning up its mess.

The Poopod, an all-in-one kit to save dog owners from spoiling a good walk by having to carry a bag of dog dirt, has been designed and patented by the Bell family, from Darlington.

The invention is a team effort by father Neil 47, mother Sue, 43, and children Nicole, 15, and Joe, 11, and was inspired by Nicole, who hated holding the used bags after walking the family's Yorkshire terrier, Rosie.

The hand-held device has a scented compartment for used bags, so owners pick up the mess, put it in the pod, then bin it later.

It also incorporates a bag roll dispenser and detachable lead, making it an all-in-one dog walking device.

The prototype was created in the garage by Nicole and her father because the family could not find any suitable products on the market.

They have spent three years patenting and refining the design.

The Poopod comes in two sizes to meet the requirements of different dogs -the Poopod for medium and large dogs and the Poopod Petite for smaller breeds.

The gadget has won the backing of the British Inventors Society, which awarded the Bell family double golds for innovation and invention.

Mrs Bell, a housewife, said the family is hoping the product will encourage owners to clean up after their pets.

She said she will run the Poopod business full time, while her husband continues working for Northumbrian Water.

She said: "I think if it is easy to clear up, and is not horrible to carry, people will be much more inclined to clear up after their dogs.

"You put it in the compartment and it is hidden away from sight and smell.

"Everybody at the British Invention Show thought it was a fantastic idea. We have already got a waiting list and we will be sending out the first Poopods off the production line on November 20.

"We cannot wait. To turn something from an idea into a reality is just brilliant."

The Poopod will be available on the high street by the end of next year, and will cost £12.99.

However, it can be bought online in time for Christmas from www.poopod.com

The Northern Echo - www.thenorthernecho.co.uk - 8:48am - Friday 26th October 2007.