New Zealand's first adoptable dog cafe wants to help more pooches in shelters find their forever homes by providing a unique cafe experience.
The Barkery, opening its doors in Christchurch in 2020, will welcome patrons to cuddle, play and dine with adoptable furry companions.
Their point of difference from other dog-friendly dining options is dogs will be brought in daily from local shelters, including the Dogwatch Sanctuary Trust and Christchurch Bull Breed Rescue, for people to adopt.
Co-founder Jack Penniket said there's a barrier for people wanting to visit shelters, including the travel distance.
"It is something that requires a bit of commitment to head out there, so we thought what if we can make these dogs a little bit more accessible, is there a way we can help bridge the gap and create an experience that helps put them in the spotlight," he said.
Prospective pup parents who wanted to take a dog home would be referred to the shelter to start the adoption process, with the cafe being the place to meet and get to know each other.
- Meet New Zealand's cutest farm dogs
- Dog-friendly movie event leads campaign to allow pets in public places
- Owning a dog could make you live longer - scientists
Penniket recognises the demand for people to spoil their "precious furry companions", and always liked the idea of doing dog treats.
It was easy to find names for their dog-friendly food items because there are so many "ridiculous" dog puns, he said.
On offer for dogs will be puppuccinos, pupcakes, gourmet hot dogs and dog fortune cookies. Food for humans will also be available.
"We'll basically be trying to serve food up that replicates a human meal, but it's made out of dog-friendly ingredients," Penniket said.
The cafe will have about five adoptable dogs at a time, but that number is at the discretion of the local shelters.
Dog owners can also bring their own furry friends to play with other pups.
The Barkery's first 'pup-up' adoptable dog event is on Saturday October 26 from 2:30 at Sun Dog Diner, complete with 'pupparazzi' and a red carpet for dogs.
Newshub.