Walkies!
In the market for some pet-focused retail therapy? Take a stroll to Nala’s – your furry family member will love you for it!
Recently, our dog has been dealing with a few behaviour issues that we assumed were simply down to our low-key approach to training. It wasn’t until a meeting with a behaviourist that we realised that it could in fact all be down to his diet.
Determined to help his gut (and his associated anxiety), we set about researching the huge topic of pet nutrition and, luckily for us, this coincided with the opening of Plymouth’s new luxe pet store Nala’s. Not only did we find somewhere we could discover some trusted new brands – several of them local - we also realised that store owner Tom has some brilliant brains to pick and will happily help guide and advise.
It was just what we needed at the time and since Nala’s (named after his own dog) is such a lovely store, full of gorgeous things we had to introduce you. Dweller’s, meet Tom!
What’s the story behind Nala’s?
When Nala was a puppy she was very much a disruptive puppy and I was curious what was driving this behaviour as she was never left alone for long periods, always well exercised and had plenty of toys she could play with too.
Reading online I discovered the impact that a dog’s diet can have on them and their general quality of life and I was shocked with how bad certain brands of food and treats were. At the time very few places offered advice or high-quality products so this was something I wanted to change.
What’s the ethos behind the business?
I want to ensure that I’m only offering my customers the best that’s available – products that I would be happy giving to Nala. So my focus is on high-quality brands, particularly when it comes to food and treats. If I can source this from local brands then even better, so I do stock [Devon brand] Forthglade and [Newton Abbot-based] The Butchers Dog and hopefully others will follow!
Is it just us that can’t help coming to you for advice, as well as products?!
I am grateful for everyone who comes into the shop, whether it's to chat or purchase something. But yes, I get a lot of people asking for advice on their pet's nutrition, which is great as I love talking to people about their pets diets and helping them to find what is right for them. There is a lot of information online and not all of it helpful, so my aim is to assist people in understanding their pets nutritional needs and what the benefits of a good quality diet are for them. Understanding what is in the food you're buying is the biggest thing and ensuring it has a real meat protein source as its first ingredient is key.
So, for new dog owners, what would be your top 3 tips?
Firstly, research the breed thoroughly. Nala is a German Shepherd, who are notorious for hip & elbow dysplasia, so prior to getting her I did as much research about what causes these issues and how I could help prevent/manage from a puppy - things like not over exercising her. Each breed is different and will have certain things that need to be managed, so it's important to know this prior to getting them.
Second, socialise them early and often - not just with other dogs but with people (both at home and out); it's important to get them used to different people as well as different breeds of dogs - delivery drivers are an everyday occurrence in a lot of our lives so getting them used to this from a young age is important.
And do spend the time training them and particularly working on their recall, whether it's stopping them running into a road or chasing something they shouldn't - this could save their life one day.
And finally, for those considering becoming a dog owner, what advice would you share?
Plan to include them in as much of your life as possible, as quickly as possible. The hardest -and by far worst - part of owning a dog is that they aren't around for long enough, so make sure you include them in your life and share your experiences with them.
We couldn’t agree more. And if this sounds like your vibe too, then it’s worth knowing that Nala’s hosts a friendly “Pup Social” on the last Saturday of each month, which is a brilliant way to acquaint yourself with the brand. Starting at 9.30am at Block Café in Plymouth’s Royal William Yard, there’s a morning walk around the Yard and along the coastal path, before heading back to the café for special offers on hot drinks, breakfast baps and pupcakes. Plus, there will be discounts in the shop, too.
Have you seen the latest snuggly Cocopup jumpers in-store? We’re just saying…
Nala’s Pet Co. Unit 6 Brewhouse Arcade, 3-5 Brewhouse, Royal William Yard, Plymouth, PL1 3RP
Images: courtesy of Ben Knight Photography and H Hawke Creative.
