Santa grotto for dogs comes to Hampshire next week

Regardless of their good or bad behaviour, your pooch can be treated to an unforgettable Christmas experience next week.

Rural Pet Food Pantry in Shedfield has promised a luxury festive experience for Christmassy canines and their owners – with the added bonus of meeting Father Christmas himself.

The pet supply shop in Botley Road is holding its first ‘Santa Paws’ grotto for dogs on December 10.

'A major event'

Shop owner Aimee Cross said: “We thought we would mix it up a bit this year with a Santa’s grotto for dogs.

“This is a major event for us, we have never done anything to this scale before. It’s really exciting and we are ready for it.

“We’ve already spent around £5k on decorations so it should be something special.

“Everybody always says how owners treat their dogs like children, and it’s totally true.

“We see that’s how people want to treat their dogs, so rather than people coming in to buy food at Christmas, we thought we’d do something to give back.

“It’s all about giving something back to the community; something extra for them.”

'Traditional festive fun'

The ‘Santa Paws’ grotto runs from 10am to 5pm and tickets cost £5 per dog.

The ticket price includes a gift, a meet and greet with Father Christmas, and much more.

Aimee said: “People receive a gift worth £5 at the end of their visit.

“We are also offering a dog deli as well on the day, which will be full of 'pupcakes', 'chocolate' eclairs, truffles, beer, and more. 

“And we’ve got Huskies coming down with their sleds for photo opportunities. People can pose and cuddle with them.

"We wanted to run the grotto event to give something back to customers and the community that has supported us over the years.

"We wanted to create some traditional festive fun for our customers and their owners and do something magical but different."

Over 70 tickets have been sold so far and you can book yours by calling the shop on 01329 833671 or 01329 595300.