      | The ins and outs of The Dog Shop...
Having had a successful career in Social Care, including teaching and consultancy, the end of a contract at the University of Lincoln provided an opportunity to consider a change in career. With help from a friend at Sokells, Driffield, a visit to a trade fair in February 04 and the opportunity to buy the Toy Gallery building in Lairgate, Beverley this seemed like an opportunity not to be missed. In May 2004 the decision was made and by August 2004 the property was acquired and the process of changing it into The Dog Shop began. The shop was opened on Saturday 28th August 2004 and since then we have had excellent feedback from customers, both local and abroad who have enjoyed their Dog Shop experience. This culminated in being nominated for a national award in Progressive gifts magazine, we were pleased to be one of the top four retail outlets in its category. What do we sell?
The other half of the shop provides a changing area for dog customers to try on the selection of clothing available. We try to provide a range in size, quality and price of dog clothing and collars, beds and bedding. At times we are asked for products that we do not stock or have not seen and this will send us off on a search in order to satisfy customer need. Who will you meet? Susan is in the shop most days and is supported by ‘Grandma’, Susan’s Mum Muriel, who is a great volunteer. Other volunteers include Gill, Pauline, Denise, Sylvia, Bob and Jason, all of whom have helped Susan develop the idea of the shop, decorate, stock and serve at busy times. She couldn’t manage without them! Not to forget Saffy and Robby! Other Acknowledgements: Photography: Les Gibbons, Steve Armishaw, Stephen Armishaw Photographers Accounts: Bob Thompson, Fish and Co Office support: Denise Thompson, Out of Office Catering: John Benn, White Rose Catering Website: Tmedia www.tmedia.co.uk
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The
Dog Shop was created and developed by Susan in 2004. She had wanted to have
a shop for many years and had always been attracted to ‘doggy items’
in other shops. Susan and her family had often had to improvise in order to
maintain the quality of life of her own and the family dogs. This culminated
in trying to find a jacket to cover Puppy’s operations scars, and at
this point she decided that there was a gap in the local market for dog accessories
a ‘one stop shop’ not only for the product but also advice on
where to get further help.
Part
of the shop is dedicated to items for dog lovers from limited edition sculptures
and pictures through to soft toys, cards and stationery. Susan selects all
products herself and looks for good quality and wherever possible, a local
product.