16/06/2026
Finally time to say a few words…
First of all, thank you to all of the lovely customers who’ve shopped at The Doghouse, not just under my ownership but for the 35 plus years the shop has been going.
I went in regularly as a young girl and always looked forward to seeing what animals etc were there at the time, up until just lately the smell of various pet foods would bring back nostalgic memories of my visits to the shop with my mum.
I’ve always loved working in the shop and having the opportunity to own it and put my own stamp on things, it really was a dream for me.
Sadly, times are changing.
The ever growing battle with the internet and prices that you just can’t compete with, next day deliveries which just can’t happen for a little shop and a way of life that seems to be all about convenience rather than making the time to actually walk to shops is sadly ruining independent business all over the country.
It is also no secret that the company who have moved next door to the shop and occupy the flat above the shop and now own several buildings along Church Street have played quite a big part in the demise of the business.
I’ve felt like I’ve had to keep relatively quiet about this, as I would obviously see them every day, however more care should be shown not only to the residents in their care but also to the residents who live and work along Church Street.
Commandeering the street with cars displaying blue badges, despite rarely more than one or two actually being used for the transport of residents isn’t fair on businesses or residents along the street or customers who would like to park near those businesses, antisocial activity, whether it be directly above my shop or on the street again causes a lot of stress and upset to the people working and living amongst it and doesn’t make for a very inviting atmosphere to potential customers nor does the constant presence of the emergency services, all of these things add extra strain to an already struggling high street and the council really do need to start taking note of this and making more of an effort for everyone’s sake.
Today I closed the door for the last time and I did get emotional, a mixture of happy memories hard work and the loss of such a wonderful long standing business turned me into a blubbering mess.
I’ve met some fantastic people, amazing pets, worked alongside the best colleagues and made friendships for life and for that I will always be thankful.
Best wishes from
Helen, Molly, Noah & James.
🐶🏠🐾
XX
