A shop for fans of four-legged friends

BEHIND the dark facade of a small building on Mair Street is a treasure trove for animal lovers.

It is not a pet shop, it is the bricks and mortar arm of Animales Online selling animal-themed merchandise.

Owner Bettina Harlos said people who love animals also want to have things that feature animals.

“It’s not just cats and dogs, I sell items with turtles, hedgehogs, giraffes and even cows,” she said.

Her online business started in 2017 and Ms Harlos recognised the need for a street store when she was continually asked by customers for the opportunity to see the products before purchasing.

“I think you need both options, online and retail to cater for a wide customer base,” she said.

Almost all the items in her store are imported direct from the overseas manufacturers.

She has Australian exclusivity on Mila Ceramics, one of her stop selling bands which she brings in from Germany.

A high-quality colourful porcelain range of cups, bowls and plates decorated with cats, dogs, llamas and birds.

Ms Harlos said her most popular item is Chala Bags which she imports from California. The leather bags are adorned with the likes of squirrels, giraffes and even unicorns.

She also ships in a range of animal themed jewellery with life-like animal breeds featured in the sterling silver pieces.

Ms Harlos has worked in retail most of her life mainly for large organisations such as Ikea and Disney.

“Having my own shop was like having that dream,” she said.

Animales Online is at 75 Mair Street East, Ballarat and is opened Wednesday to Sunday.

For further information go to animales.com.au or call 0478 709 054.