12-4-14 A customer-friendly dog can be a great attraction for a retail business

I went into Vino Amore in Freeland to purchase a couple bottles of wine the other day.  While I am always satisfied with my purchase, I think I got even more pleasure out of being greeted by the two shop dogs.  As you walk in the door and up to the counter, a beautiful large golden retriever named Koa jumps up and puts his paws on the counter and says hello, as only a friendly dog can do.  When you peak over the counter, you notice a new fur friend that has joined the greeting committee: Buddy, who is a pug.

 

Gail Liston, who owns Vino Amore with her husband, Brian Plebanek, agrees that the dogs bring in customers.  Many of the regulars stop by to say “Hello” to the fur fellows, give the dogs a pet….and buy a bottle of wine.

When Gail first began bringing Koa with her to work it was to keep her company.  Soon, she discovered that the dog was a natural greeter. She definitely likes having the company of Koa and Buddy when she is on duty by herself (and Brian appreciates the company when he’s there, as well), and she is the first to admit that they have definitely been as great a draw for the business as their excellent selection of wine and beer.

 

(A special note for cat lovers: While there are several businesses that have dog greeters, there are cat greeters, as well.)