From puppuccinos to Pilates, Chelsea Dog Day saw a wealth of free treats, special activities, and limited edition products available on the King’s Road. Photos by India Stronach
Stitch the dachshund being photographed for his Instagram (saustitch.dog) by Woof Photography at Peter Jones.
Chelsea Dog Day returned for its fifth year on Saturday (3 October,) with businesses across the area opening their doors to four-legged customers.
For an neigbourhood with an already above-average saturation of dogs wearing outfits, Chelsea was overwhelmed with a tidal wave of little paws in bandanas, coats, and even tutus.
Teacup poodle puppies Dior and Chanel, dressed for the occasion.
Dior and Chanel attended with their human, Petunia, who told The Chelsea Citizen: “It’s almost overwhelming, there’s just so much on! It’s really great.”
From check-ups at Virtue Vets to fine dining at The Trafalgar, King’s Road was alight with opportunities for dogs and owners to experience Chelsea in a way they never had before.
“It’s been busier than last year,” said Alice, an employee at Les Néréides, where dog-themed jewellery was available and free ‘Dog Lover’ tags were included with purchases. “People really love it.”
The event – championed by Cadogan Estates – also offered plenty of entertainment for the humans in tow. Visitors could take a Pilates class at Eyeam, join a disco at Pet Pavilion, or try out a pet portrait workshop at Art Play.
This wasn’t the only option to get a personalised artwork. Woof Photography set up at Peter Jones, while Needle and Thread hosted a Vogue-inspired photoshoot complete with complimentary bandanas. Meanwhile, guests at The Cadogan Arms enjoyed hand-drawn pet sketches by artist Peter Kuznicki.
“Needle and Thread was the best,” said attendee Rajan, who had brought his Shetland sheepdog Lara. “Everything’s been great. We liked the vet checkup!”
American cocker spaniels Herbie and Bella, ready for their close-up at Needle and Thread.
Lauren, who brought her teacup poodle to Chelsea for the day from their home in South East London, told The Chelsea Citizen: “I spent a lot more than I planned to! There was a lot to do.”
Another activity available in multiple businesses was pet tarot– perfect for the cusp of spooky season as we move into October. However, other businesses were dedicated to proving that summer isn’t over just yet, with cool pup cups and ice creams available from The Surprise, Azzurra, and The Trafalgar.
Dachshunds Bruno and Mars sharing pup cups at Virtue Vets.
“It’s all about the dogs, really,” said Sue, who works at Pet Pavilion. “It’s just good to see them being appreciated.”
Additional photos by June Torrance
