Figurines in the shape of animals have been made for centuries as art objects. These figurines have typically been made of clay, stone or wood.

Animal figurines have also been designed which have live herbs that simulate the fur or hair of the particular animal. Exemplary of such is those sold by Joseph Enterprises, Inc. of San Francisco, Calif. under the trademark Chia Pet. These figurines have hollow, clay bodies in the general form of the animal represented. A large torso portion of the clay body has many small grooves in which moistened chia seeds (Salvia Columbariae) are positioned. The moistened chia seeds produce a thick, gel-like paste which binds the seeds to the clay surface.*

Chia Pet® is the registered trademark belonging to Joseph Enterprises, Inc., the manufacturers and originators of the Chia Pet. The name was first used on September 8, 1977. The Chia Pet is not a patented invention. Other companies can freely make and sell novelty items similar to the Chia Pet, but the name of Chia Pet® belongs to Joseph Enterprises, Inc.

The first Chia Pet® was the ram, marketed and distributed in 1982.

Who needs a dog or cat when you can own a Chia Pet®? Available in popular Bunny, Frog, Hippo, Kitten, Pig, Puppy, Turtle, as well as the new Chia Head®.

Joseph Enterprises, Inc. also holds the patent for the Smart Clapper® whose slogan is "Clap On! Clap Off!" US Pat #5493618: Method and apparatus for activating switches in response to different acoustic signals, invented by Carlile R. Stevens of Horseshoe Bay, TX and Dale  Reamer of Lafayette, CA.

Chia-Riffic Websites
Joseph Enterprises, Inc
The official home of Chia Pet ®

Chia Pet Zoo
The wackiest zoo in the world.

Aliens Made Crop Circles on My Chia Pet
Live chia cam.

Tia Chia Pet
This site is the first treatment on the inner teachings and principals of the long lost six position form of the Tai Chia Pet. Lost for decades, these teachings became the source of inspiration to Western Chia Masters at Joseph Enterprises.

Chia Pets Threaten New Mexico
Chia Pet dumping has started an environmental disaster with grave consequences.

*References - US05549500 (background of invention) which is a patented Chia growing sponge.

Related Information
Toy Inventions

Smart Clapper®/Chia Pet® image used courtesy Joseph Enterprises, Inc.

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