THREE adorable pugs and three stray kittens have inspired sisters to launch an online pet boutique.
Becca Gargery decided to start a new business during lockdown.
“It started when I caught Covid and realised I don’t really have a hobby or interests other than work and my animals,” said Becca, 31, a corporate lawyer from Knutsford.
“I was feeling down in the dumps and couldn’t see friends.
“I spent so long on the internet looking to buy all the different things we needed for our dogs from different suppliers, it took ages.
“I thought I can’t be the only person who does that.”
Becca teamed up with sister Zara, 35, who works in logistics management for an airline catering company, to see if their idea could take off.
The pair spent months contacting suppliers, testing products and researching the market.
“When we realised we spent just as long shopping for pet-cessories as we did our own, it was time to turn our passion into something to share with everyone,” said Becca.
Neon Moon Pet Boutique was launched five weeks ago and the sisters plan to run it alongside their careers.
“My job has demanding long hours so I struggle to switch off and relax,” said Becca.
“This was like therapy, I really enjoyed all the research.
“We have designed all our own products and our collections are inspired and named after our pets.
“Each range reflects a hint or whole bundle of their personalities.”
Pugs Luna, Tod and Willow model a selection of products, including different mesh and step in harnesses for different weathers.
Cats Mary, Minnie and Olive sport collars to match their dog siblings.
Owners can even buy matching scrunchies.
The sisters donate £1 from every item to an animal rescue charity.
Willow was adopted from a pug charity in 2019.
“It broke my heart to know she had a tough first year,” said Becca.
“We were able to help her gain weight, grew her confidence and enabled her to overcome some of her anxieties.
“She is still scared of open stairs and bridges but she is now the leader of our little pug pack.
“We absolutely love that we’ve given her a loving and fun home.
“As four of our pets were rescues and strays, it is only right for us to give back.”
Sales have already exceeded their targets.
“We’ve had a great response so far,” said Becca. “People have been really supportive.
“All our products are made with durable and resistant materials.
“We use carabiner-style hiking clips on our range of leads for enhanced security and total peace of mind.”
Each pet’s personality has inspired a different range of accessories.
“Luna makes every day exciting so her collection is bright and flowery,” said Becca “Willow is the crazy one so she has a leopard design.”
The name of the business was inspired by a passion for country and western songs.
“I love country music, we are huge fans,” said Becca. “So I was thinking of cars at night under neon signs.”
For more details visit neonmoonpetboutique.com
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