
“I think everyone wants to have a life. When you are a dog carer or dog parent, you feel quite bad if you leave them alone,” said Jamie Swan, who opened the After Bark bar and cafe in June.
The dog drinks skip the alcohol, but the canines can enjoy a “Howlapaw Sling” of raw carrot juice or a “Great Expawlor” tray full of shots of apple and raw beet juices. Owners and their pets can also share treats.
Sharing a social life with pets is a way to ease the anxiety some families are feeling after the changes brought on by the pandemic, Swan said.
After Bark is the latest venture from the Barkney Wick dog and human community centre in the capital’s Hackney Wick area. Many customers are new owners who had adopted their pets during lockdown.
Abigail Davis adopted Coco the pug after feeling she could give the dog the attention it needed while working from home.
Labrador Bertie was picked up by owners Tom and Laurence in February for the same reason.
“I’m a huge fan of cocktails, so I love to come here. It’s so nice to be able to bring my dog along and know he can enjoy himself in a relaxed atmosphere,” said another patron, Dom Moore.
For those who think whining and dining together is a step too far, the centre also offers doggy daycare services and a cafe in the daytime until the doors to After Bark open.