I bought my first pedigree dog, Buffy, a Frenchie, 9 years ago. I had always wanted a French Bulldog, since seeing one in the vets and falling in love with the breed. Unfortunately, from the start, she had health problems. She had to have BOAS which means having her nostrils widened and her soft pallet trimmed. Even so, she still regurgitates her food. Also, she was constantly itching and biting her paws.

She was on prescription medication for it but I was concerned about the long term effects so did some research and found out about raw dog food. I would be a liar if I said she was 100% better health wise but she has certainly improved from when she was on kibble.

I started the shop because I had to travel quite far to buy raw dog food. Cardiff, Abergavenny, Porthcawl to name a few places. As I have only been driving for a few years (nine now) I found it quite nerve wracking to drive to some places and I especially hate roundabouts.

So, one day, I thought why not open a shop here in Treherbert selling raw dog food, natural treats and all things complementary. Talk about naivety. I didn't have a clue and started off with just four freezers. Four freezers and tons of frozen dog food and nowhere to put it. I had to ask friends and colleagues if I could store it until I bought more freezers for the shop. I also spent hours pricing up all the treats before realising I had forgotten to take into consideration the VAT

Now, 5 years on, I think I’ve finally got the hang of things. I’ve got great customers (both human and canine) and I feel part of a wonderful community.

Colleen.