Dalton Park outlet shopping destination, the biggest in the North East, has decided to become a dog friendly place, after receiving customer feedback suggesting the change.
On the bank holiday Monday, May 29, the centre is holding a day of dog-themed events to mark the occasion. These start at 10am and include dog behaviour trials, a dog selfie spot and a pop-up market selling canine treats.
To help adapt to the change, dog hydration stations, disposable poo bags and dog waste bins will be put in at each of the 3 entrances of Dalton Park.
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There will also be dog first aid kits at customer services, and The Dog's Trust will be onsite throughout the day on Monday to raise awareness and funds for the work that they do around the UK.
If guests want to go shopping with their dogs, individual shops will display a 'we're dog friendly' sign in their windows, and there is also 55 acres of landscaped parkland next to the centre for a walk nearby.
Richard Kaye, Centre Manager at Dalton Park, has spoken about the reasons for doing this, as well as explaining the 'dog house' rules that will help keep things under control.
"We are absolutely thrilled to announce that from Monday 29th May we will be a dog friendly destination.
"We continuously ask customers how we can improve their experience and being dog friendly is always at the top of the wish list - so we know we're not 'barking up the wrong tree.'
"The launch will be a celebration of the nation's favourite pet and we have lots of exciting activities planned.
"We do have a few 'dog house' rules we are asking people to follow, including keeping dogs on a short, non-retractable lead while in the centre, using the new green dog waste bins to clean up after their pets and being respectful of customers who may be afraid of dogs.
"As a dog lover myself, I can't wait to welcome our new four-legged customers into Dalton Park."
To find out more about Dalton Park's new dog friendly initiative and the launch event, visit the centre's website here.
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