Pet retailer to open UK’s first cinema and coffee bar for dogs

A pet retailer is to open the UK’s first cinema and coffee bar for dogs which will be accompanied by a play park and health store, this Saturday.

The purpose-built complex cost £100,000 and forms part of an overall £1.3m revamp at PetPlace in Abergele. Pets can sip canine tea and coffee or try pawsecco or the group’s ‘doggie beer’, Bottom Sniffer. Dogs can watch a selection of movies, from Beethoven to 101 Dalmatians.

Managing director Sion Pritchard says the unveiling comes after months of hard work by the PetPlace team, who have kept the plans a secret while refurbishing the 4,000 square foot site in time for the red-carpet launch.

Pritchard added: “The entire Abergele store has had a complete rebrand in the last year, and this is the icing on the cake,” said Sion, who joined the firm in 2000 before taking the helm five years ago. We looked at several options for the space before deciding to do something unique, something no other pet store in the UK has ever done before.

“Cinemas and theatres have allowed dog owners in to watch movies for one-off events but this is different, it is a facility designed for the dogs all-year round. The focus is on health and nutrition, but also the fun aspect in being able to watch movies or play in the park. It’s unlike anything else in the country and we are delighted with how it looks and functions.”

PetPlace employs more than 90 workers at its five stores in Llangefni, Chirk, Mold, Ruthin and Abergele, and head office in Mochdre.