Global kids’ content distributor Jetpack Distribution has announced it has acquired the worldwide rights for three brand new pre-school animated shows from Paper Owl Films – Ladybird & Bee, which launched in Ireland earlier this year, and two in-development shows, Mr Dog and Florida.

Ladybird & Bee comprises 26 x 2-minute episodes with series two in development (26 x 2 minutes) and has been commissioned by Irish public service broadcaster RTÉjr and funded by Northern Ireland’s Irish Language Broadcast and Screen Fund. It launched on RTÉjr in Irish language March 2021 and  in English on 4th October 2021.

Mr Dog will comprise 52 x 11 minute episodes and is due to go into production late 2023.

It centres around a wonder-dog, under-dog ‘Mr Dog’ and is based on the best-selling books by Ben Fogle. Mr Dog travels the world, meeting animals in need. He has a nose for sniffing out trouble and can’t resist the call of a good adventure. The world from Mr Dog’s knee-high perspective is full of canine danger and drama, as he solves other animals’ problems in his own lovable, mischievous and funny way. Mr Dog is determined to make the world a better place for humans and the animal kingdom. Facing every challenge with humour and confidence, Mr Dog empowers the audience to do the same in their own real-life adventures.

Florida will comprise 52 x 11-minute episodes and also goes into production late 2023.

The series centres around a girl called ‘Florida’ who has come to live with Aunt G in her GEM (Gadgets of Everyday Marvel) shop. Florida embraces creativity and change for the next generation of young engineers. The shop is a universe of possibility and the ‘gems’ are wonders of human invention and creativity. With imagination, a bit of mischief and plenty of optimism, Florida and her friends help these unwanted objects find a new purpose in the world.

Jetpack’s CEO, Dominic Gardiner, says:
“These shows from Paper Owl Films make delightful, quirky and unique additions to our preschool catalogue. They are gently introducing young children to concepts such as teamwork, helping others, using creativity, exploring the world around you and looking at everyday objects in new ways. All are set in locations that preschoolers will find fascinating and intriguing. Something that we love to encourage in young audiences.”

Paper Owl Films’ Creative Director, Gráinne Mc Guinness, says:
“We’re honoured that Jetpack is distributing these shows that are very close to our hearts. Paper Owl Films is committed to delivering memorable content that has a positive impact on young preschoolers – whether that’s as simple as a giggle or helping them learn valuable lessons through fun and funny content. This ranges from the beauty of natural biodiversity balance with best ‘beasties’ Ladybird and Bee, madcap animal rescues with Mr Dog, or being inspired by Florida’s confidence and commitment to a better world for everyone she meets.”