Despite sleepover camp being cancelled and limited summer activities available, Zoe Kirshner , a grade 8 student at Gray Academy (who will be going into grade 9) has managed to keep herself busy. At 13 years old, she founded Oodle Attire, her first business venture selling very affordable bandanas for pets  and matching face masks for pet owners.

Inspired by her love for her year-old toy poodle named Monte, and mixed with her concern about COVID-19, Zoe discovered a creative way to make the most of the circumstances. The business began with a trip to the fabric store and sewing lessons given to Zoe by her dad. Although Zoe and her Dad had paired up once before when weaving her bat mitzvah tallit, Zoe quickly took hold of this project and she and the sewing machine have not left her room since.

Her brand offers very affordable pet bandanas ($4 for small bandanas, and $5 for large bandanas) that come in an assortment of fun and colorful materials in various sizes. Face masks for pet owners (at $5 each) in matching patterns are available in light, breathable materials and can be bought as a set with the pet bandana. They can also be bought separately, regardless of whether you are a pet owner.

Pet Bandanas and matching face masks also make a great gift item. These cute designs are more than worth it. Oodle Attire offers city wide delivery for a small fee and also ships within Canada and the US. Zoe says, "I've already sold my pet bandanas and matching masks for pet owners to customers in Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Ontario. People like the idea of wearing a mask that matches their pet's bandana. I have had people buying the bandanas and face masks for their friends or co-workers, and I have had a lot of referrals by word of mouth."

Zoe notes that having a pet brings a lot of comfort to people. During the Covid 19 pandemic, people are spending more time at home, such that there has been an increase in pet adoptions. Oodle attire bandanas and masks bring a smile to what can otherwise be a stressful time.

Check out Oodle attire’s facebook and Instagram to place an order, or email Zoe at [email protected].

?Oodle attire is also looking to introduce other accessories including matching headbands for pet owners. Of course, others who don't have a pet will be able to buy the headbands as well.