Pub creates pooches’ playroom
DOG-FRIENDLY landlord Gavin Sinclair has created a pub for pugs, a boozer for schnauzers, a place where you can sup with your pup.
He has turned a spare room into a pooches’ playroom with tunnels, ball pool, agility beams, squeaky toys and even a chill-out area with cushions, blankets and beds.
With help from barman and pet photographer Paul McGuinness, Gavin created The Temple of the Derg at the Central Bar, Gateshead.
Gavin, 41, said: “I was out with my partner Marcia and our dog in another pub and saw a load of dogs under tables, looking bored.
“Marcia said, ‘It’s a shame they don’t have a play area like they do for kids’. We have spare rooms above the bar and converted one into a dedi- cated doggy zone. We allow a maximum of 10 dogs in there. It’s not a creche or daycare service. Owners supervise them and clean up any accidents as they can get a bit excited!” Rules are written on a blackboard outside and each owner signs in to say they will take care of their pet once inside.
Coming soon at the pub – on the edge of the Tyne Bridge – is a doggy menu, training classes and pet parties.
Marcia, 39, who adopted Romanian street dog Cookie two years ago, said: “It’s so lovely seeing them play and Cookie absolutely loves that he can meet so many different dogs.”
A Kennel Club study found 79 per cent of landlords thought pub atmosphere improved if dogs were welcome.
Dogs get bored so we gave them their own zone gavin sinclair pub boss who loves dogs