"There was no point in searching online, I didn't understand any of it. When I got home, I mentioned to Didier that an app, centralising information about bike shops and services, would be great. So I developed one," said Paul.
Bike Aid was launched in March this year and has 4500 users worldwide, with about one third of those in New Zealand.
"There are over 6000 bike stores listed in the app around the world and we are adding to it each week."
But it wasn't long before vet Didier suggested, "Why not develop an app called Vet Aid?".
And so the idea for the wider development of an app for complete dog services and stores was born.
Research
The research skills of young Louis came into force and since its launch in August, the Good Dog Co app now has more than 5100 users across New Zealand.
"We needed lots of research and the biggest challenge for us was the time-consuming aspect of development," said Louis.
When he was not studying at Saint Kentigern College in Auckland, young Louis was busy researching services online and on the phone researching parks, cafes, vets and pet suppliers and dog-friendly motels and campgrounds.
The app has a full range of information on bylaws around New Zealand, from beaches to CBD dog bans. Now available to download on iOS and Android through www.thegdco.com, Paul believes the app is the only one of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Initial quotes for app development was in the $40,000 bracket, but Paul said that was just too expensive.
"We found a less expensive option from the US that still offered a great app," he said.
The online platform helps users find the closest services based on their current location, as well as directions to get there.
Already there are hundreds of Northland listings and more than 5100 users across New Zealand.
"Dogs are valued members of families," said Paul. "People care about them and want to bring them out when they're going out. Nobody wants to leave their dog at home, for many people, that's like leaving a child at home alone."
Dog friendly
Paul said the app also highlighted a need for businesses to ask themselves how dog-friendly they are.
"There is a perception that all dogs are dangerous. But really, most dog owners care for their pets and take time to train them.
"Searching for all of this information online is too hard - where would you start? After all, you probably just want to grab a coffee or get some pet supplies. The app has all of this information in one place."
The app can also be updated with more shops and services by its own users.
Users don't pay and listings are free to businesses, with premium upgrade listings costing just $9.90 per month.
"The name, address and contact details are free. The payment is for additional information like web and social media links, opening hours and any other information a business would like to add."
The app is sponsored by global pet supplies Hill's Pet Nutrition.
With a little help from Hill's, Paul and Louis hope to expand into the Australian market next - with its 4.2 million registered dogs - in the next 6 to 12 months.
They will then set their sights on the US market, with its 78 million registered dogs.
Paul said the business model was ideal for his family life.
"I have two young children and enjoy working from home. Whangarei is perfect for us."
He said he hoped that in time, the app would expand into the Australian and American markets and need some staff, giving opportunities for people to work from home.
