A HAUGHTON Green pet shop is celebrating its first anniversary by inviting customers to turn their beloved pets into works of art while raising money for a local animal charity.
Village Pet Foods is marking one year under the ownership of Georgia Cambridge with the launch of a giant community “doodle board” featuring hand-drawn portraits of local pets.
To take part, pet owners are being asked to donate 50p to Glossop Cat Rescue before creating a simple doodle of their furry friend. The drawings will then be brought together to create a colourful display that will remain on show in the shop.
Georgia has pledged to match the total amount raised if the community helps reach a target of 100 doodles.
With 13 years of experience in pet care, Georgia took over Village Pet Foods a year ago and has worked to build a welcoming community for local pet owners.
She said: “It’s not been easy building up the shop in these economic times, but what keeps me going is the community that we have.”
As well as offering advice in-store, Georgia runs a WhatsApp group where customers can seek pet care guidance, while four-legged visitors are regularly featured on the shop’s social media pages.
The business also supports local suppliers, stocking products from Dunn’s Raw Foods in Ashton-under-Lyne, Red Barn Bird Foods in Macclesfield and harnesses from Manchester-based petwear company Olive Heath.
One of the shop’s most popular features is its range of healthy pet treats, with Georgia ensuring there are no rawhide products on the shelves.
Local customer Rachel, from Gee Cross, said: “Village Pet Foods is a great shop. Georgia is very knowledgeable and doesn’t push products on you – she just advises what is best for your pet. And my dog loves visiting!”
The charity doodle board will run throughout August, with all proceeds going to Glossop Cat Rescue.