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If you have recently watched television, you have likely seen a commercial with two adorable teddy bears dressed as an elderly couple that are strolling hand in hand through a bustling airport. The teddy bear commercial was recently released and has already taken the world by storm.
Whether you are the one traveling or you are waiting for someone to travel to you, traveling is a huge part of the holiday season.
The commercial is titled “Coming Home for Christmas” and was distributed by London’s Heathrow Airport. It was the first Christmas commercial that airport has ever put out and it was certainly successful. The ad was filmed at the airport over the course of three days while the airport was operating.
The commercial, regardless of it being just a minute long, has received over three million views.
We watch the bears get off of their airplane, get their passports checked, conquer an escalator together, and struggle reaching their baggage. They are portrayed as a well-dressed older couple, supporting one another in the attempt to travel without issues. The ending is guaranteed to pull on your heart strings.
Jonathon Coen, the commercial’s director spoke on the commercial saying, “We love the film and hope the bears’ journey through the airport captures that excitement you feel when walking through Heathrow arrivals into the arms of your loved ones at Christmas.”
If you are looking to give a teddy bear as a gift this holiday season, visit The Zoo Factory.
Stuffed animals are more than just toys—they can serve as valuable tools for emotional support and stress relief. Often used in therapeutic settings, stuffed animal therapy provides comfort and helps individuals manage anxiety, grief, and trauma. Stuffed animals offer an incredible source of solace, whether it’s a child going through a tough time or an adult seeking emotional grounding.
Stuffed animal therapy involves using soft, plush toys as a form of emotional support. This type of therapy is not limited to children; it can benefit people of all ages. From healthcare settings to counseling offices, stuffed animals are used to promote emotional well-being, provide companionship, and even help individuals express feelings they might otherwise find difficult to verbalize.
One of the key benefits of stuffed animal therapy is the emotional comfort it offers. Holding or hugging a stuffed animal can instantly reduce feelings of anxiety or fear. This simple physical act can provide a sense of security, making difficult situations feel more manageable.
For children, especially, stuffed animals can act as trusted confidants. Kids often find it easier to talk about their feelings when they can share them with a comforting object. This makes stuffed animals an excellent tool for therapists working with children who struggle to express emotions. The toy becomes a safe outlet for discussing worries or fears.
Loneliness can affect anyone, from a young child starting at a new school to an adult going through a stressful life event. Stuffed animals provide companionship during these times, offering a source of comfort and friendship. They can help alleviate feelings of isolation and provide consistent emotional support when needed most.
In situations where stress or anxiety is a constant challenge, stuffed animals can serve as a tool for learning coping mechanisms. Having a familiar, comforting object nearby helps individuals—especially children—develop strategies for self-soothing and emotional regulation. Over time, the presence of a stuffed animal can be a reminder of resilience and emotional strength.
While stuffed animal therapy is often associated with children, it can benefit people of all ages. Adults facing anxiety, grief, or trauma often find comfort in the soothing presence of a stuffed animal. It is also used in elderly care, particularly for individuals with dementia. The soft texture, familiar form, and gentle weight of a stuffed animal can have a calming effect, helping reduce anxiety and providing a sense of comfort and familiarity.
From young children to the elderly, anyone can benefit from the emotional and psychological support stuffed animals provide.
If you’re looking to explore the benefits of stuffed animal therapy for yourself or a loved one, you can find a wide variety of comforting stuffable animals to choose from at The Zoo Factory.
Browse our collection online today and find the perfect stuffed friend to provide emotional comfort and support!
From the earliest stages of childhood, many children form strong attachments to certain objects, often soft toys or blankets. These comfort objects, also known as transitional objects, play a crucial role in a child’s emotional development and overall well-being.
Comfort objects provide a sense of security and stability during times of stress or change. They can be especially important during periods of separation from primary caregivers, such as bedtime or the first day of school. By holding onto something familiar and comforting, children can better manage their emotions and self-soothe.
These objects serve as a bridge between dependence on caregivers and self-reliance. By providing emotional support, they help children navigate the challenges of growing up and adapting to new situations. As children mature, their reliance on these objects typically diminishes, signaling a natural progression toward independence.
Comfort objects can also play a role in cognitive development. Engaging in imaginative play with a stuffed animal or blanket can stimulate creativity and problem-solving skills. Children often project their own feelings and experiences onto these objects, which can help them process emotions and make sense of the world around them.
Interacting with comfort objects can also foster social skills and empathy. By caring for a stuffed animal, for example, children practice nurturing behaviors and learn to consider the needs and feelings of others. This can lay the foundation for healthy relationships and social interactions in the future.
At The Zoo Factory, we understand the importance of comfort objects in a child’s life. Our wide range of stuffed animals offers the perfect opportunity for your child to find a special friend that provides comfort, security, and endless imaginative play. Visit our website to find your child’s new best friend today!
In a world where empathy and understanding are more important than ever, teaching children the values of kindness and sharing is crucial. One of the most effective and heartwarming tools in imparting these lessons is through something most kids adore – stuffed animals. These plush companions are more than just toys; they are vehicles for emotional development and social learning.
Stuffed animals provide a unique opportunity for children to engage in role-playing activities, which are instrumental in developing empathy. When children pretend play with their plush friends, they often project emotions onto them, imagining feelings of happiness, sadness, or even fear. This act of attributing feelings to a toy helps children understand and express their own emotions, and more importantly, recognize and react to the feelings of others.
Introducing multiple stuffed animals into playtime is a great way to teach sharing. Children naturally create narratives and scenarios involving their stuffed companions. This can lead to situations where sharing and taking turns become integral to the story. It’s a subtle and enjoyable way for kids to learn the importance of cooperation and generosity.
Stuffed animals need to be cared for – they need to be ‘fed’, ‘bathed’, and ‘put to sleep’. Engaging in these nurturing activities allows children to develop a sense of responsibility and compassion. It’s an early lesson in understanding that other beings, whether real or imaginary, have needs that they can empathize with and attend to.
Lastly, stuffed animals can be powerful comfort providers. They offer solace and a sense of security, teaching children about the calming power of kindness. When a child comforts their stuffed animal, they learn to soothe themselves and, in turn, understand how they can comfort others.
Stuffed animals are far more than just playthings. They are silent teachers of some of life’s most valuable lessons – kindness, empathy, sharing, and compassion. As children grow and navigate their emotions and relationships, these plush companions serve as gentle guides along the journey.
At The Zoo Factory, we believe in the power of play to teach and heal. Our range of stuffed animals is perfect for helping your child learn these essential life skills. Visit our website to find that special plush friend who will not only be a source of endless fun but also a companion in learning and growth.
When you think back to your childhood and your favorite stuffed animal, what do you see? If it’s a teddy bear with loose stitching or a missing arm, it is obvious that your stuffed friend was well-loved. And while your mom might have replaced a missing eye with a button, or continually re-stitched the same hole, Second Life Toys – a Japanese campaign created by Dentsu Japan – has found a creative and beautiful way to give new life to old stuffed animals.
Participants will take a photograph of their toy for approval, sending the actual animal in for “surgery” through the mail once approved. Animals will be given new life with transplanted limbs, showing individuals that organ donation is an enhancement, not a compensation.
Examples include a deer with new, fuzzy pink back legs and a white bunny with a new, floral printed ear.
This program is especially wonderful for introducing the concept of organ donation to children, and we at The Zoo Factory think it is a beautiful project that combines learning with whimsical fun.
Especially for the stuffed animals that your children play with the most, pay close attention to their seams, checking them regularly for small rips and tears. A little hole under a bears arm is much easier to repair than a missing limb!
We recommend sewing injuries by hand, keeping stitches close and matching the thread to the fur color.
It is also important to keep your stuffed friend clean, but just throwing it in the washing machine could cause extra wear.
For all your stuffable animal needs, visit The Zoo Factory online or contact us by phone at 866-993-3325. Whether you are hosting a birthday party or just looking for a fun activity to do with your kids, stuffing 8” or 16” animals is sure to be a fun time!
Why should I order from The Zoo Factory instead of other websites?
We know you have many options when shopping for DIY Stuffed Animal Kits and separates and are grateful to have been serving the Stuffed Animal community since 2007. Shopping with The Zoo Factory will allow you to shop with a company that is going into our 18th year of business and stands 100% behind its products that are crafted in the USA – with love, by us, for you and your recipients. We offer both retail and wholesale products and have worked with countless organizations including schools, hospitals and more for all of their fundraising needs.
How do I contact The Zoo Factory if I have questions or issues?
For questions or concerns, feel free to call us toll free at 866-993-3325 or use our quick and easy contact form located here.
Do you only offer your animals to Wholesale clients, or can I place a retail order?
We cater to both retail and wholesale customers who wish to enjoy the quality animals we have to offer!
Do you offer any discounts on retail orders?
For discounts and promotions, check our home page and sign up for our monthly newsletters!
Do you offer eco-friendly products?
The Zoo Factory is proud to carry eco-friendly stuffing, as well as offer our customers Plush for the Planet animals in both 8” and 16” sizes, all available here.
What is The Zoo Factory?
The Zoo Factory is your destination for creating personalized stuffed animals. We offer a wide selection of furry friends that you can customize with outfits and accessories to make them uniquely yours.
How does it work?
It’s simple! Select your favorite stuffed animal, customize it with clothing and accessories, and add any special features you like. We’ll bring your creation to life and ship it to your doorstep.
Where are your stuffed animals made?
Our stuffed animals are lovingly crafted in the USA with a focus on quality and attention to detail.
What size stuffed animals do you offer?
At The Zoo Factory, we offer 8” and 16” stuffed or unstuffed animals for your convenience.
Does anything come with my stuffed animal?
Each of our 8” and 16” animals comes with a Wishing Star, Birth Certificate and Stuffing Instructions.
How do your unstuffed animals close?
Since our stuffed animals require no sewing, unstuffed animals are made with an easy to use, child safe Velcro closure!
How do I know my children won’t be able to easily pull the stuffing out?
Each animal utilizes an internal closure that houses the stuffing, so even if your child opens the Velcro closure, there is another layer of protection where the actual stuffing is held.
Are your stuffed animals safe for children?
Yes, we prioritize safety. All our stuffed animals are made with child-safe materials and meet or exceed industry safety standards, making them suitable for children of all ages.
What is the recommended age range for your products?
Our stuffed animals are suitable for children of all ages, but please consider potential choking hazards for very young children. Always use your best judgment.
Can I order additional outfits or accessories separately?
Yes, you can purchase additional outfits and accessories from our store to change your stuffed animal’s appearance as often as you’d like.
Does my animal come stuffed?
You have two options when it comes to stuffing for your animals. First, you can choose to purchase stuffing with your order, and stuff it at home which allows you to add as much or as little stuffing that you would like. For your convenience, we also offer the option to order your animals pre-stuffed. You can choose this option for each individual animal.
Do I need to buy stuffing from The Zoo Factory?
You absolutely do not need to purchase your animal stuffing through The Zoo Factory, however we do offer stuffing for your convenience. You can order the stuffing as an add on to stuff it yourself, or pre-stuffed for your convenience!
How much stuffing does it take to fill an animal?
Each 8″ animal will need 2-3 ounces of stuffing, and each 16″ animal will need 7-8 ounces of stuffing depending on how soft or firm you want your stuffable animal to be.
What is your stuffing made from?
Our premium stuffing is made of 100% high quality polyester fiber, guaranteed to give it long-lasting resilience and loft. Our stuffing is non-allergenic and hand washable!
Do you offer any custom apparel for my organization?
We absolutely offer customized t-shirts for your organization! Our pricing can be viewed here (link “here” to https://www.thezoofactory.com/custom-printing/) while we work on our Custom T-Shirt Online Ordering. When you are ready to order, please call us toll free at 866-993-3325.
How do I order custom t-shirts?
We are currently working on implementing Online Ordering for our Custom T-Shirts. In the meantime, our pricing can be viewed here (link “here” to https://www.thezoofactory.com/custom-printing/). When you are ready to order, please call us toll free at 866-993-3325.
Can I personalize my stuffed animal?
Absolutely! Choose from a variety of outfits, accessories, and even voice recording options to create a one-of-a-kind stuffed animal.
How do I record a voice message for my stuffed animal?
During the customization process, you can select the voice recording option and follow the provided instructions to record a special message. We’ll include it in your stuffed animal.
Do you offer any discounts on wholesale orders?
Once you register and are approved for a wholesale account, you will have a login to use on our website. Any time you are logged in under your wholesale account, your discount will appear on each individual product. You can also find special discounts here.
How do I get started with an account?
Get started by Registering for an Account!
How do I place an order on The Zoo Factory website?
To place an order on The Zoo Factory website, simply add items to your cart, choose whether or not you would like to have your animal stuffed for you, come with stuffing to stuff it yourself or come without stuffing, then choose your accessories. Once you have added all items to your cart, go through our simple checkout process and if you need assistance, please contact us toll free at 866-993-3325. Use the menu to browse our categories or start shopping here.
How much does shipping cost?
Shipping cost varies, depending on order size and shipping method/speed. You can review the shipping cost during checkout.
How long does it take to receive my order?
Orders are typically processed and shipped within 1-2 business days. Shipping times may vary based on your location and the shipping method selected during checkout.
Can I track my order?
Yes, once your order is shipped, you’ll receive a tracking number via email, allowing you to monitor the status of your package.
What do I do if my order is wrong, or a product is defective?
Please use our simple Item Return Form, found here.
What is your return policy?
We have a 30-day return policy. If you’re not satisfied with your purchase, please contact our customer support team for assistance with returns and exchanges.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. PayPal is also available for your convenience.
Is my payment information secure?
Rest assured that your online security is a priority. Our website is secured with SSL encryption to protect your personal and payment information.
For any questions or assistance, you can contact our customer support team via email at zookeeper@thezoofactory.com or by phone at 866-993-3325. We’re here to help with all your inquiries.
PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF USE CAREFULLY BEFORE USING THIS WEBSITE. All users of this site agree that access to and use of this site are subject to the following terms and conditions and other applicable law. If you do not agree to these terms and conditions, please do not use this site.
Copyright
The entire content included in this site, including but not limited to text, graphics or code is copyrighted as a collective work under the United States and other copyright laws, and is the property of The Zoo Factory. The collective work includes works that are licensed to The Zoo Factory. Copyright 2003, The Zoo Factory ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Permission is granted to electronically copy and print hard copy portions of this site for the sole purpose of placing an order with The Zoo Factory or purchasing The Zoo Factory products. You may display and, subject to any expressly stated restrictions or limitations relating to specific material, download or print portions of the material from the different areas of the site solely for your own non-commercial use, or to place an order with The Zoo Factory or to purchase The Zoo Factory products. Any other use, including but not limited to the reproduction, distribution, display or transmission of the content of this site is strictly prohibited, unless authorized by The Zoo Factory. You further agree not to change or delete any proprietary notices from materials downloaded from the site.
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All trademarks, service marks and trade names of The Zoo Factory used in the site are trademarks or registered trademarks of The Zoo Factory
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This site and the materials and products on this site are provided “as is” and without warranties of any kind, whether express or implied. To the fullest extent permissible pursuant to applicable law, The Zoo Factory disclaims all warranties, express or implied, including, but not limited to, implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose and non-infringement. The Zoo Factory does not represent or warrant that the functions contained in the site will be uninterrupted or error-free, that the defects will be corrected, or that this site or the server that makes the site available are free of viruses or other harmful components. The Zoo Factory does not make any warrantees or representations regarding the use of the materials in this site in terms of their correctness, accuracy, adequacy, usefulness, timeliness, reliability or otherwise. Some states do not permit limitations or exclusions on warranties, so the above limitations may not apply to you.
Limitation of Liability
The Zoo Factory shall not be liable for any special or consequential damages that result from the use of, or the inability to use, the materials on this site or the performance of the products, even if The Zoo Factory has been advised of the possibility of such damages. Applicable law may not allow the limitation of exclusion of liability or incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
Typographical Errors
In the event that a The Zoo Factory product is mistakenly listed at an incorrect price, The Zoo Factory reserves the right to refuse or cancel any orders placed for product listed at the incorrect price. The Zoo Factory reserves the right to refuse or cancel any such orders whether or not the order has been confirmed and your credit card charged. If your credit card has already been charged for the purchase and your order is cancelled, The Zoo Factory shall issue a credit to your credit card account in the amount of the incorrect price.
Term; Termination
These terms and conditions are applicable to you upon your accessing the site and/or completing the registration or shopping process. These terms and conditions, or any part of them, may be terminated by The Zoo Factory without notice at any time, for any reason. The provisions relating to Copyrights, Trademark, Disclaimer, Limitation of Liability, Indemnification and Miscellaneous, shall survive any termination.
Notice
The Zoo Factory may deliver notice to you by means of e-mail, a general notice on the site, or by other reliable method to the address you have provided to The Zoo Factory.
Miscellaneous
Your use of this site shall be governed in all respects by the laws of the state of California, U.S.A., without regard to choice of law provisions, and not by the 1980 U.N. Convention on contracts for the international sale of goods. You agree that jurisdiction over and venue in any legal proceeding directly or indirectly arising out of or relating to this site (including but not limited to the purchase of The Zoo Factory products) shall be in the state or federal courts located in Los Angeles County, California. Any cause of action or claim you may have with respect to the site (including but not limited to the purchase of The Zoo Factory products) must be commenced within one (1) year after the claim or cause of action arises. The Zoo Factory’s failure to insist upon or enforce strict performance of any provision of these terms and conditions shall not be construed as a waiver of any provision or right. Neither the course of conduct between the parties nor trade practice shall act to modify any of these terms and conditions. The Zoo Factory may assign its rights and duties under this Agreement to any party at any time without notice to you.
Use of Site
Harassment in any manner or form on the site, including via e-mail, chat, or by use of obscene or abusive language, is strictly forbidden. Impersonation of others, including a The Zoo Factory or other licensed employee, host, or representative, as well as other members or visitors on the site is prohibited. You may not upload to, distribute, or otherwise publish through the site any content which is libelous, defamatory, obscene, threatening, invasive of privacy or publicity rights, abusive, illegal, or otherwise objectionable which may constitute or encourage a criminal offense, violate the rights of any party or which may otherwise give rise to liability or violate any law. You may not upload commercial content on the site or use the site to solicit others to join or become members of any other commercial online service or other organization.
Participation Disclaimer
The Zoo Factory does not and cannot review all communications and materials posted to or created by users accessing the site, and is not in any manner responsible for the content of these communications and materials. You acknowledge that by providing you with the ability to view and distribute user-generated content on the site, The Zoo Factory is merely acting as a passive conduit for such distribution and is not undertaking any obligation or liability relating to any contents or activities on the site. However, The Zoo Factory reserves the right to block or remove communications or materials that it determines to be (a) abusive, defamatory, or obscene, (b) fraudulent, deceptive, or misleading, (c) in violation of a copyright, trademark or; other intellectual property right of another or (d) offensive or otherwise unacceptable to The Zoo Factory in its sole discretion.
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You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless The Zoo Factory, its officers, directors, employees, agents, licensors and suppliers (collectively the “Service Providers”) from and against all losses, expenses, damages and costs, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, resulting from any violation of these terms and conditions or any activity related to your account (including negligent or wrongful conduct) by you or any other person accessing the site using your Internet account.
Third-Party Links
In an attempt to provide increased value to our visitors, The Zoo Factory may link to sites operated by third parties. However, even if the third party is affiliated with The Zoo Factory, The Zoo Factory has no control over these linked sites, all of which have separate privacy and data collection practices, independent of The Zoo Factory. These linked sites are only for your convenience and therefore you access them at your own risk. Nonetheless, The Zoo Factory seeks to protect the integrity of its web site and the links placed upon it and therefore requests any feedback on not only its own site, but for sites it links to as well (including if a specific link does not work).
Return Policy
Orders that are refused when delivered, and returned to The Zoo Factory by the shipper, may be subject to a 20% restocking fee. Once order is received, a credit to your credit card will be made for the returned items less the shipping charges. Situations that fall out of this policy are if the order gets lost, or does not arrive on time, which is the “date needed” listed on the order.
Our stuffable friends are always there to help us, and that includes helping out in the community. Many of the same benefits that a stuffable animal can have for our children can apply to families in need. Here are a few ways you and your child can help the community with stuffable animals.
When police officers or firefighters respond to a situation, they often give stuffed animals to any children involved. After a traumatic event, a child is often in a lot of fear and pain, and a stuffable animal can help ease those emotions. To help, you can donate stuffable animals to your local police or fire station. You can also send them to Project Smile, a non-profit organization which donates stuffed animals, coloring books, and children’s books to police officers, fire fighters, and paramedics around the country.
As much as kids can benefit from stuffable animals, so can pets. Dogs in particular love stuffable animals; they’re fun to play with and can ease anxiety. Just be sure to remove any buttons or zippers before you donate them.
With the power of numbers, people can really make a difference. Local charities or schools often have charity drives, and they’ll donate what they’ve collected to children in need. That could range from local children living in poverty, to children in another country who have just survived a natural disaster.
Would you like to give a stuffable animal to a child in need? The Zoo Factory can help. Check out our inventory to see how you can start making a difference.
Between their huge imaginations and their charming ability to turn everything into a game, children love the idea of their stuffed animals coming to life. Classic kid’s movies and cartoons present tales of animated toys, talking teddy bears, and children that can communicate with their toys.
Children see stuffed animals as their first and most loyal friends, and the ability to witness “life” in these treasured toys keeps children’s creativity alive. Pretending they can talk back allows children to play with their stuffed animals in the most inventive ways.
By using soft robotics, researchers at Yale University developed robotic skins that animate inanimate objects. Made with elastic sheets and full of sensors and actuators, the robotic skins can animate objects and make them perform different tasks. The skins help objects walk, move, or grasp and move another object.
The leader of the research and an assistant professor of mechanical engineering and materials science, Rebecca Kramer-Bottiglio and her team developed the skins to use as soft robots with large implications. The idea is that researchers can use the robotic skins to wrap around deformable materials to create improvised robots for situations where they might prove helpful. For example, astronauts could use the skins in space to attach to objects and deploy for exploration.
Dubbed OmniSkin, the researchers wrapped the robotic skin around a stuffed horse’s legs to make it walk across a table, animating the stuffed animal in a new and exciting way.
These researchers, just like our children, are inventing unique ways to bring stuffed animals to life. Find your children a new stuffed friend from The Zoo Factory, your source for buildable, stuffable animals and dolls.
