An animal-loving landlord has given his pub a new leash of life after opening a boozer – for DOGS.
Ian Bradford wanted to offer dog-walkers somewhere to take their four-legged companions so he dedicated his pub to cater for man’s best friend.
He gives away free treats and biscuits to well-behaved pooches, who even have their own bar where they can get a drink of water and a tennis ball to play with.
Ian, who runs the pub with his wife Viv, are also putting up maps around The Borehole, in Stone, Staffs., showing the most popular dog walking routes locally.
Today (Mon) Ian said: “Our dog, Sparky, is a big part of our life and we wanted to create somewhere for people to be able to bring their dogs.
“As well as our award-winning beers, spirits and wines, a lot of customers like the fact that we’re offering something different and that we don’t exclude dogs.
“It does give us that advantage.”
To attract more dog owners, The Borehole has introduced Sparky’s library – where dogs are invited to choose a tennis ball to take away with them following their visit.
Ian added: “Sparky has a talent for finding lost tennis balls. So much so, I don’t think we’ve ever actually had to buy her one.
“We came up with the idea so dogs can come in and take a tennis ball away with them, knowing that if they lose it, Sparky will find it again.”
Regular visitors Vicky Gallagher and Adam Tunstall take their five-year-old springer spaniel Ruby to The Borehole.
Vicky, 45, said: “There’s not many places you can take a dog, so it’s a big plus for us that Ruby is welcome.
“She enjoys the pork scratchings and sometimes she’s been given cheese, biscuits and other treats for free.”
Adam, 48, added: “It’s just a really relaxed atmosphere and it’s quite original that dogs are made so welcome.”
Ray Gimbert, from Stone, and his Boston terrier Monty are also regular customers.
The 52-year-old said: “Monty automatically heads for the pub now when we’re passing, so we both like it.
“We both share the same taste in beer too.”
