Kindred Tales | Serena, Frankie and Stanley | Lead the Walk
Tell us about Frankie and Stan and how they both came into your life
Frankie is a 6-year-old French bulldog who we’ve had since a pup. She has a very serious and protective nature. Nevertheless, she can be incredibly affectionate. Stanley is an elderly Staffordshire bull terrier. He came into our lives just over two years ago through a rescue charity. The more we learned about dogs and their welfare, the more we wanted to give a home to a dog that needed one. Stanley is a lovable and comedic character with a unique swagger.
How did owning a dog inspire you to start your own business?
When Frankie was six months old, I spent hours trawling the internet looking for a well made, reasonably priced winter coat that would fit her short, broad-chested little body. During my search, I found many well-designed products from small independent businesses scattered around the world. I thought: why not bring these little brands all together so that people like me could shop great dog accessories with ease? Since launching our dog accessories business, I’ve retrained as a dog groomer and now offer pet parents in east London an alternative to the traditional dog grooming salon experience.
How do the dogs fit into your general working day?
Frankie and Stanley get their first walk of the day before my first grooming client arrives in the morning. At lunchtime, Frankie goes out with her friends for an hour whilst Stanley joins me for our daily trip to the local post office to dispatch online orders. After my afternoon grooming session, Stanley, a former street dog, has a good pavement walk around the local neighbourhood. Frankie is keen to get back into the park in the afternoon to chase squirrels, chew sticks and play with her many friends.
When you’re not working, where do you and the dogs like to hang out?
We spend much of our time in Victoria Park, in Hackney. In warmer weather, we enjoy walks around Mile End Cemetery Park. The shaded paths are ideal for both dogs. Occasionally, we take ourselves off to Epping Forest or on special occasions, the East Yorkshire coast.
What essentials do you always have on you when heading out for a dog walk, and what do you carry them in?
I’ve always got pockets full of poop bags and usually take a bag containing water, a bowl and Frankie’s favourite frisbee, which is useful when needing to distract her attention quickly. I prefer a rucksack to a tote so I can have both hands free and not have to worry about it slipping off my shoulder.
What adventures do you have planned for the rest of the year?
Frankie enjoys getting muddy and loves exploring new places. Stanley is more sedate. A cottage in the country or a trip along the Norfolk broads would allow us to keep them both happy.
