University of Wisconsin-Stout recent industrial design graduate Claire Dronen loves walking, running and being outdoors with her mixed-breed dog, Benji.
To protect Benji’s paws, Dronen tried doggie boots, which Benji disliked and pulled off quickly. She then started to use wax to protect Benji’s paws from snow, ice, salt and other elements as well as provide better traction on slippery floors.
“It’s really messy,” Dronen said of applying the wax. “You had to use your fingers and it took a long time to get the wax applied.”
The Pup Rub Speedy Paw Protector created by UW-Stout recent graduate Claire Dronen earned a third place in the International Housewares Association Inspired Home Show’s annual Student Design Competition.
Then Dronen came up with the paw-fect idea to create an applicator for paw wax.
For her Industrial Design 5 class in fall 2020, Dronen designed the PupRub Speedy Paw Protector, an application device for the paw wax.
“It is really neat,” Dronen said. “This applicator solves multiple problems for both humans and canines. Color, materials and finish were important considerations, and its portable size makes it easy to bring when you are on the go.”
PupRub garnered Dronen, who graduated in May, third place in the International Housewares Association Inspired Home Show’s annual Student Design Competition. She garnered a $1,000 award.
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