Wimbledon is home to a number of small and independent businesses which help to add a sense of character and diversity to our town centre. Lockdown has made us all pay closer attention to our local surroundings, whether it be parks and local hidden gems, or getting to know local business owners and discovering the brilliant products/services that they offer!

We are shining a spotlight on these businesses and giving you an insight into who our local business owners are, what their stories are, what makes them special and why shopping local in Wimbledon Town Centre is vital to community spirit.

And this time it’s Creature Company! The dog groomers and pet shop is run by an eclectic all-female team of local dog lovers, including General Manager Anna de Brito. We caught up with Anna to find out more…

Who are Creature Company and what do you offer?
We are an independent pet shop and dog grooming salon right in the middle of Wimbledon Broadway. Half of the business is our complete dog grooming service, from the full groom and spa treatment, to if a pup just pops in for a quick nail clip. The other side is the store, where we also sell a huge variety of products for dogs including favourite wet, dry and raw foods, popular toy brands, clothing, training and grooming. We also have a large range of products for cats, small animals, fish and both wild and domesticated birds.

How long has Creature Company been based in Wimbledon?
We opened our doors in Wimbledon in 2001 and have been here ever since. We’ve developed a great loyal customer base who regularly bring their dogs in for some grooming, pampering and TLC.

Tell us why it’s important to regularly groom your dog?
It’s important to groom your dog regularly to prevent matting, which leads to tightened skin and discomfort, and to help with de-shedding to get rid of dead hair. Much like with humans at the hairdresser, regular trims and grooming will maintain a healthy coat! When regularly grooming you will also be able to spot any blemishes, hot spots or sore patches, well before your dog is in too much pain. You should also be brushing your dog daily in between grooms, to avoid knots and matting, – this also to help them get used to the grooming experience in a comfortable environment with people they know.

Can you recommend one product from your store, that is a must-have for a dog owner?
The KONG classic is just that – a nifty rubber chew toy with a hollow centre, which you can fill with treats or KONG peanut butter to keep your pet occupied and stimulated.

Name a product that the dogs just can’t get enough of…
Lily’s Kitchen Duck & Venison Sausages – these are a favourite with all our clients, from tiny terriers to Bernese mountain dogs!

We know that you have hundreds of friendly, furry creatures coming through your doors… what’s been your funniest experience with a pooch?
Once I was looking after a dog, who was waiting to be picked up and he slipped on his harness, but every time I tried to get it back on comfortably he inched away so his legs were splayed out as he ran.

How has Creature Company been affected by Covid-19?

As I’m sure is the case for many other local businesses, the pandemic has presented huge difficulty, both for the business and our team. From staff members being furloughed and a huge decrease in customers coming through our doors, to the changing levels of restrictions, this has been a tough year. We have, however, been fortunate enough to be able to continue our grooming services through lockdown and want to thank all of our regular customers who have continued to support us. We would love to remind the people of Wimbledon that we are open and ready to treat your dog’s lockdown locks!

So #LoveLocal and visit Creature Company at 54 The Broadway in Wimbledon Town Centre (between Oddonos Gelati and VPZ).

Shopping local helps support local business and local jobs. Plus you’re shopping greener – less packaging than online purchases and less transport miles. So pop round the corner, find something new in Wimbledon, and support your local independent businesses – including the brilliant Creature Company!