A new spot to find gifts exclusively for pups and their peeps – and give back to pets in need.

We’re excited to announce we’ve added retail in the lobbies at Downtown Dogs and Dog’s Day Out!

Dubbed  “Change Unleashed! Barktique”, this new space features cool and colorful merchandise for dogs AND dog lovers. All products come only from companies that give back to pets, people or the planet. Plus, Downtown Dogs and Dog’s Day Out are donating 3% of Barktique sales to local animal non-profits.

 The Barktique is an extension of our ongoing Change Unleashed! initiative which raises awareness and funds for a designated local pet welfare organization each quarter. Change Unleashed! offers customers round up and donation options at check out as well as convenient drop off receptacles for items requested by our partners. It’s a win-win for everyone, especially the pets in need!

Ralph Bernstein, owner of the two dog service businesses, says “This retail expansion is something we’ve wanted to do for quite a while, and it’s been in the works for over a year. It is great to finally see it go live, and to hear our customers’ positive reactions. We’ve carefully chosen all the Barktique items for their quality, uniqueness, and very importantly, their social impact. For e

xample, the Project Hive Pet Company donates a percentage of every sale to help sustain bee colonies through the establishment of healthy wildflower habitats.”

“Our Pride merchandise was well received in June. In July we’ll be featuring Camping, Hollywoof, and Nostalgic 80s and 90s themed plush items from P.L.A.Y., an impressively innovative and generous company we discovered at Global Pet Expo. In addition to great toys, some of the other items you’ll find at the Barktique include unique treats like Dog-O’s Cheesy Chompers made at a creamery in Wisconsin and a selection of on-the-go snacks from a “Jerky Deli.” We’ve also got a cute selection of eco-friendly lick mats, slow feeders, and dog bowls. There are lots of dog-themed greeting cards, stickers, magnets, and books too.”

Bernstein adds, “We love that our third quarter Change Unleashed! partner is Mission Animal Hospital, the Midwest’s only, non-profit, full-service veterinary clinic. Mission was our first nonprofit partner when we launched Change Unleashed! two years ago. It seems only fitting that they are with us for the kick-off of our Barktique too.

Between the convenience and giving back aspects, we know Change Unleashed! Barktique will be a great addition to the dog-centric service experiences our Downtown Dogs and Dog’s Day Out customers know and value.”

To learn more about how you can join us in giving back to pets in need through Change Unleashed! visit https://dtdogs.com/resources/ . 

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The advice provided is based on many years of experience as dog parents and operators of one of the largest and longest established dog daycare and boarding facilities in the Twin Cities. Always consult your veterinarian. When not sharing advice, our dog bloggers — Frannie, Lyle, and Helen — share a space with their people, Downtown Dogs owner Ralph Bernstein and his wife, Abbe.