Doggywood

“It’s an old-fashioned customer service kind of thing.” That’s how Patricia Frank explains her store Doggywood Limited's philosophy and the reason for its success. Always a collector, Patricia wanted to share her love of dogs and knick-knacks with others, so she opened the business in 1996. The unique shop is a gift store featuring dog-related items. “I wanted a fun place where you could buy different things other than the products available at the big box stores,” she says. “I knew of one store that had collectible cat items. My focus was specifically on dogs.”

Over the years, Patricia has added more items to her shelves, including pet food and accessories as well as offering some cat and other animal products. She has moved a few times since 1996, but her customers have stayed true. “I have gained loyal customers. I know their tastes and their needs,” says Patricia. “There are a couple of customers who take the C-train and the bus from across town to see me.”