This pet store encourages you to drop by with your dog. And its staff are encouraged to put up black and white portraits of their pets as décor. Heads Up For Tails (HUFT) which began as a niche e-commerce business for pet couture by Rashi Sanon Narang back in 2008 is now 14 branches strong, with its newest franchise outlet open in Chennai as of last month. We took a tour of the 520 square foot store in Kotturpuram with co-owner Devan Thuppali. Here are some novel offerings we sniffed out:
Orthopaedic beds
Yep, you read that right. By incorporating nanotechnology in doggie mattresses, their human owners can better sleep in their own. And here is why. The beds are repellent to drool, hair and water. Rs 2,749 upwards. Orthopaedic beds are also available for senior canines with joint pain. Made of made of Open-Celled HR foam that adapts to the shape of the spine offering more support, these are thoughtfully low-lying so your pet doesn't have climb into bed, just step on. Rs 6,499.
Slow feeding bowls
If you’re worried that your dog is eating too fast — this is your solution to stress-free mealtime. Blunt built-in ridges within the bowl create a mini maze so your furry family member is forced to pause between mouthfuls at every step. Rs 500 upwards. Also look out for bowls designed with drooping ears, like the Cocker Spaniel or Basset Hound. Created narrow and tall, the ears fall on either side of the bowl, so your pet doesn't end up getting his ears wet with gravy. Rs 720 upwards.
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Calming Mist
If your pet has become a bit on edge post all the Diwali crackers, try this Calming Mist. With an infusion of both lavender essential oil and ylang-ylang essential oil, spray on your dog's coat (avoid eyes and face) or around their bed, to calm their nerves. Rs 199 for 50 ml.
Golden paste
You might not be able to share your turmeric latte with your pooch. But here’s the next best thing. Golden paste brings together the goodness of organic coconut oil and turmeric — and can be used as a quick addition to a meal for its antiseptic properties or for a gentle massage and a shiny coat. Available in 100 ml jars, in paste form at Rs 510 (with organic pepper) and in oil form Rs 550.
Pea Mutt Butter
You got to love that name. Handmade in small batches without any preservatives, emulsifiers or added oils, this is a fun treat. It contains some wildflower honey for flavour and honey is not for puppies, so this edible is only for adult dogs. Put inside an interactive toy or simply enjoy a lick off a spoon (you're dog we mean) after a welcome woof home. Rs 315
Sherwanis and tuxedos
Your furry family member might enjoy a change of coat, the next time there’s a wedding. From sherwanis to tuxedos and even a ready range of raincoats (Rs 1,399 upwards) — this wardrobe lookbook will most certainly get you plenty of likes on Instagram. But more importantly, these are tailor-made to fit your dog to ensure free movement. Rs 5,500 upwards.
sonali@newindianexpress.com | @brightasunshine