Setting up Shop

Written April 30^th 2012

So after much blood, sweat and (luckily not many) tears the shop is finally open to the public! I have had so many compliments on it and sales are great which is encouraging.

For readers who have not yet visited I thought I’d give you a bit of a virtual tour; although coming in to see me really is much more fun.

The pine dresser is stocked full of Pet Head products for your dog and cat including ‘dry clean’ shampoo for dogs and Pretty Kitty strawberry yoghurt detangling spray for your long haired moggies who are highly unlikely to jump gleefully into the bath. These products are great for dogs in between baths and for cats who like to wander around picking up different smells. Also on the dresser is the Hing bone bowls in red, white, black and pink, and the Becobowls. The Becobowls are a great innovative product and I wonder if one day all plastics will be made in this way. They are created from plant fibres which means they are strong enough to withstand dishwashing; and perform like melamine; but here’s the good part… they are actually biodegradable, so when you are finished with them and the go to landfill (or on your compost heap to speed things up) they will eventually disappear back into the land. There are 3 sizes to suit any pet, and there are matching food and litter scoops also available.

Alongside the dresser is the extensive range of pet beds, including the floral, stripe and pheasant print from Joules; starting at £24.00. They are fantastic quality with traditional Joules prints and made in the UK!  Also in the bed section is the Union Jack duvet, and the House of Paws spots and floral, also made in Britain, and many more.

The centre table houses the range of Puppia harnesses with co-ordinating leads, as well as the Mutts & Hounds quality apparel. The Union Jack harness has been on of the best sellers so far, and I can only imagine the demand will continue with the impending Jubilee celebrations. The Scrufts collars, handmade in Brighton, are also showcased on the centre table. The mannequins have worked really well as a size guide for customers, and 10 days in Bobby has finally stopped barking at them and realised they’re not going to play with him!

Next to the counter is the beautiful selection of leads, ranging from £10 for a printed nylon style to £38 for a handmade leather style. Here sits another best selling item, the doggy rainmacs in red, yellow, navy, pink or lime – unfortunately a wardrobe essential for British springtime! The Planet Dog Orbee-Tuff toys are also here. They are one of the most resilient toys available, and Planet Dog promise to replace any which prove otherwise! 2% of profits on these items go to canine charities worldwide.

Kitties corner is opposite the counter, with the soft cat beds and cocoons for even the fussiest puddy. There are a selection of collars, including handmade leather ones with Swarovski crystal exclusive to Barkitty. We also sell Lily’s Kitchen organic cat food (as well as dog treats); and hand crocheted Queen’s corgis stuffed with quality catnip and a ‘Best of Britain’ bow tie (£7.00).

Please come by and see for yourself as stock and displays are changing all of the time. Dogs and children are welcome!

See you soon!

Lisa x