NEW ZEALAND’S FIRST ADOPTABLE DOG CAFÉ HITS $50,000 STARTUP GOAL
Source: Stuff (Extract)
Posted: December 8, 2020
The ultimate pup-up venue is now officially a reality.
The Barkery – New Zealand’s first adoptable dog cafe – has reached its $50,000 crowdfunding goal needed in order to construct the container site in Christchurch’s red zone.
Once up and running, the dog-friendly dining venue will help connect cute canines with new owners. Visitors will be able to choose from a human and a canine menu, and learn about and interact with local rescue dogs looking for a new home.
Organisers were surprised the goal was reached thanks to being “inundated with last-minute pledges”, co-founder Jack Penniket said.
Under the crowdfunding site’s terms, none of the funds would be paid if the target wasn’t met.
“It was unbelievable. I have to admit I lost my marbles a wee bit and shed a few tears. The support has been overwhelming.”
A donation of “in excess of $5000” was instrumental in getting it over the line, Penniket said.
“It hasn’t quite sunk in yet. At the halfway point of fundraising we started to worry a bit, knowing anything less than the $50,000 would mean we get nothing. But now we know this is really happening.”
The project is still in the consent process, but Penniket said he hoped this would not be too arduous due to it being a container build.
Donor Detta Donde pledged $5,800 the day before the funding’s deadline.
She said her two passions were dogs and community – something The Barkery would encapsulate.
“It’s a brilliant concept and I think other cities should look at it too. It serves a great cause and also makes great use of our red zone, which is finally being used for something.”
A mid-2021 opening has been pencilled. In the meantime, organisers will be searching for local suppliers and businesses looking to get on board.
This included container fitouts, fencing and labour workers, hospitality managers, and anyone who “wants to have a real crack at an awesome canine menu”.
Chefs, baristas and dog handlers are also being sought.
The concept was formed in 2019 by Penniket and co-founder Ally Mullord, who wanted to help rescue dogs find new owners. Only 12 per cent of New Zealand’s pet dogs are adopted from shelters.
The venue will showcase adoptable dogs with displays, digital signage and information about the adoption process.
A percentage of all profits will be returned to local dog shelters.
