A random photo on Snapchat made Daniel O’Connor take notice of a novel idea – one that he could introduce to fellow Aussie dog-lovers.
The Cronulla dog owner spotted a friend post a photo of their pups trying out a new invention for four-legged friends.
Described as innovation in pet care that took the US market by storm after appearing on the television show Shark Tank, Fresh Patch aims to provide a convenient and eco-friendly way to potty train pets.
Targeted at people living in apartments with no backyards, Fresh Patch works like this: a fresh wad of dirt-free grass is regularly delivered to your home, ready for dogs (and cats) to use.
The grass is Australian grown using hydroponic techniques, and requires no cleaning, emptying or disinfecting.
Mr O’Connor, 32, has brought the product to Australia with the help of some keen investors.
“I thought it was brilliant idea and had never seen anything like it in Australia,” he said.
He said high-density living residents were on his radar.
“I previously lived in an apartment and always wanted a dog, but there wasn’t access to a backyard,” he said.
“I would see the streets full of apartment dwellers walking their dogs, and thought there must be a market for it.
“This makes living with a pet in an apartment easier.
“Dogs instinctively know how to use grass, and it’s ideal for winter because some dogs don’t like going outside in the cold.
“We also get customers with sick or old dogs, new puppies, dogs recovering from surgery, and dogs going on vacation.
“People have also asked about grass feed patches for birds, rabbits and guinea pigs.”
