This week we chat with Shendl Rewitzky, owner of Bark & Beyond, which produces a range of locally-made nutritious and delicious dog treats and foods, as well as products.
What products do you offer?
I make artisan dog treats, dog cakes, pupcakes, and pies. I also stock a range of natural and South African-produced pet shampoos, sprays, and dog toys. I am always looking for new and exciting products, especially products produced in SA. I also try to support small-owned businesses as much as possible.
Which animals do you cater to?
I cater mostly to dogs but I do have some products available for cats and horses. My dog treats have also been purchased for pet rats.
When and how did you start your business?
I have always had a dream of making healthy and delicious dog treats and when the company I was working for closed down, I decided to take the leap and started testing recipes. It has grown from there. I started my business at the end of 2018 and I am loving every minute of it.
What makes your product better or different from other similar products on the market?
My dog treats and cakes are created with my own pets in mind as I do not want them to have too many preservatives and additives. With each flavour I create, I am always looking for that treats to be unique and delicious for my own dogs and those of my clients.
What skills and knowledge does one need in your line of business?
You will need to have a good knowledge of pets and what they can eat. You need to be creative and also have business management skills. You will also need to be friendly to people who are interested in buying your products. Excellent service is key. Look after your clients as they are the best advertisement your business can ever have.
What are some of the challenges you have encountered so far?
My greatest challenge at the moment is load-shedding. I have to work around the load-shedding times for baking the treats.
What are some of your business highlights or achievements?
I have met some amazing ‘dog pawrents’ through my business and have been blessed to get to know them and their furry children. I have also created specialty items for my regular clients and have tried to cater, as much as possible, to dogs with allergies. I was very excited to have my business featured in the Saturday Dispatch a few years ago. I truly love what I do.
What advice do you have for someone who is interested in starting their own business in the animal food and nutrition space?
Do your research and test your recipes and their shelf-life. Be friendly and you must have a love for animals. Be patient as building a business takes time and a lot of effort. Build a social media following. Everything you offer for purchase needs to be as perfect as you can get it. Packaging is important as well.
Is there anything you would like our readers to know about you?
I love animals and have always felt more comfortable with animals than with most people. I try to be as flexible as possible when it comes to my client’s requests and will always try to go that extra mile.
How can our readers contact you?
My contact number is 072 236 8101. I prefer WhatsApp or Telegram messages as I am not always able to answer calls, especially when I am baking. My email is barkandbeyondel@gmail.com. My social media handle for Instagram and Facebook is @thebarkbeyondel. To order from outside East London, my website is barkandbeyond.co.za.
