【sociability of eroticism in the eighteenth century】

Last week,sociability of eroticism in the eighteenth century monthly subscription service BarkBoxreleased their “Overstuffed” November box that included a “pigs in a blanket” toy that looked more like a Fleshlight than the iconic hors d'oeuvre:

Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

A Facebook ad displayed photos of the toy, conveniently available in three sizes:

Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Naturally, the internet took it to a horny place, and the ad went viral with comments insinuating that the dog toy was produced with a much different purpose in mind. According to BarkBox, the viral fame was good for business: they sold out in three hours on their BarkShop — and they even included a last-minute gift with purchase. Sales were up 200% above average for a normal, non-promotional day.

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According to the company’s blog post about the ordeal, BarkBox toy designers had no idea of the possible connection. “For the record - NEVER crossed my mind and I am a fairly nasty human,” said an anonymous employee over BarkBox Slack. “They’re just two pigs stuffed into blankets… When you see them in person, it certainly doesn’t read as a sex toy… I think.”

Sensing dollar signs, BarkBox has leaned all the way in to this viral mistake. In addition to the blog post, they sent out PR pitches to hungry reporters, and even made a TikTok about how “thicc” the toyis.

If you have a hankering to get your dog the closest toy to a Fleshlight they’ll probably ever receive, you can buy it here. Otherwise, a bone is probably fine.

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