Allen Simon, Wee Wee Pad inventor
Allen Simon never went to high school. But now he’s filthy stinkin’ rich. How?
Easy… He is the inventor of the Wee-Wee Pads for dogs. That’s right: Every time a dog pees, this guy hears cash registers ringing.
Allen was a former carpet layer who transitioned into a dog grooming business in Brooklyn. In those days they used newspapers for the pets to pee on. Noticing how the urine soaked through the paper to the floor, Allen says he had an epiphany: “I said this is ridiculous; I’ll make my own pad.”
Nothing “Wee” About This Idea
A novel product of the 1970s, Allen’s super absorbent piddle pads were designed to attract the puppy when nature comes calling. There is a plastic lining that helps to prevent floor damage from urine. You can use them in potty training or for dogs that are housebound for longer periods of time. Various sizes are available, from small pups to extra large dogs.
As the bestselling housebreaking pad in the world, Four Paws Wee Wee Pads have been tremendously popular, and Allen figures that he’s “gone from $1,000 in sales to over $30 million.” That’s nothing to bark at.
Word of Caution
“Dog Whisperer” Cesar Millan praises the pads, but cautions pet owners about their use in house training a puppy.
“Though Wee-Wee Pads are a wonderful invention,” he says, “it’s very important that puppies don’t learn housebreaking inside a house.” He advises to set the pee pads out at times when you won’t be able to supervise the puppy. Also, always replace a used pad immediately with a new one.
Top pic: TV Land photo
