A couple who wanted to spend more time with their dogs have set up a business where they can do just that.

Ryan Tolley and his partner, Anthony Marshall, have opened Pablo's Pup Shop underneath their new flat in Union Street, Maidstone.

Named after their much-loved Jack Russell terrier, the store – which stocks only dog-related goods – opened last month.

The pair, who have been together since they met at KFC 10 years ago, took the gamble of starting a business after buying their new home which came with the shop unit below.

They also have a seven-month-old cockapoo called Poppy.

Ryan explained: "After getting Pablo, and later Poppy, we both felt really bad for leaving them on their own for a few hours of the day for work.

"We worked opposite shifts and it just wasn't ideal.

"So we just decided to make a change and create the career I always wanted whilst caring for our own dogs."

Ryan studied animal care at college and always knew he wanted to have a career working with dogs.

However, after getting a part-time job in the hospitality industry he has worked at numerous restaurants for the last 10 years.

Now a part-time griller at Maidstone's Nando's, the 27-year-old has focused most of his energy onto his new business.

And as well as being able to take their own dogs to work with them, customers are welcome to bring theirs in too.

Ryan said: "People are loving our shop.

"We're stocking smaller, higher quality brands to support other local businesses too.

"We're only selling dog products as we want to stand out, offer advice and help other owners who love their pups as much as we do."

With Ryan working at Pablo's full-time, Anthony, 32, works part-time but spends the rest of his working week also at Nando's.

Anthony said: "It's been a real challenge juggling everything.

"We were both working full-time whilst we renovated the shop. We even roped our family in to help us out."

It as after Anthony's mum died that the couple decided to get Pablo.

Anthony said: "I was in a low place and I was made redundant from work at the same time due to the pandemic.

"Pablo pulled me out of that slump. He helped me recover and our love for dogs has just grown."

Poppy wasn't a planned addition to the family but Ryan and Anthony caved after buying her sister for Ryan's mum.

Anthony said: "Dogs are like your family and we really want to share that feeling with our customers.

"This business is the dream and we love meeting other people's dogs.

"It's so much fun and so far there have been no down days – and I doubt there will be.

"This business is just a bit of fun, happiness and a place for people to treat their pooches."

Having their own pups meant Ryan and Anthony were perfectly placed to come up with ideas for what other dog lovers would want.

Ryan continued: "We've been to your Pets at Home stores and other pet shops on the high street.

"The staff are lovely but because they have to cater to everyone there wasn't the high quality products that we were looking for so that is one of the reasons why we decided to open our own shop."

Anthony and Ryan supply food made by Forthglade, Hugo and Co and many other nutritional brands.

They even stock dog outfits and dog harnesses made by a local business.

The couple also host competitions on their social media platforms and offer free treats to its fluffy visitors.

You can find out more on their Instagram and Facebook pages.

Ryan said: "As dog lovers ourselves, we just want the best for them.

"Please come along, there are plenty of opportunities for an Instagram worthy picture with our little set up.

"Pups drag your humans down and try out some treats, try on some clothes or just say hello."