Town sees 65% of shops become dog-friendly

A list of dog-friendly businesses on a Devon high street is being compiled in the hope of increasing footfall and boosting income.

Thirty of about 50 shops in Crediton's main town shopping area, including cafes, a bookshop, a bakery, a hardware shop and even a butchers, have already signed up.

Co-owner of Adams Home Hardware David Adams said: "It encourages people to come into the town as they don't have to leave their poor old dog at home, or worse, in the car."

The town council was giving out window stickers to shops who signed up to make it clear that dogs were welcome, officials said.

Crediton Deputy Mayor Guy Cochran said: "It will improve the economy, it's a given."

Manager of the Bookery Carl East said he thought it would help businesses be inclusive.

He said: "It's not 100% easy on the high street at the moment, and anything we can do to include all potential customers just raises the tone and makes it a happier place", he said.

Some businesses that sold food also said they were on board.

Helen Hunt, who works in Oliver's Bakery, said: "I'm very happy with it because our counters are very high, so the dogs aren't actually anywhere near the food."

David Adams said he appreciated that not everyone liked dogs but said: "Dog owners can tell if people don't like their dogs, and the vast majority of customers are happy to see dogs in the shop."

Follow BBC Devon on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected].