Co-owner Diane Groff and resident dogs Makana – also known as Mak – and Foster gave a warm welcome as Winston and I made our way inside Other End of the Leash’s downtown shop. “We love it when dogs and cats come into the store,” Diane says with a fresh-made treat in hand for Winnie. She provided guidance and advice as we browsed through their selection of local, fair-trade and natural food, treats, toys and more. “We like to partner with local vets,” Diane says, “and work very, very hard to source out of the U.S. and Canada [exclusively].”

Save the Date!
Be sure to drop by Other End of the Leash September 11 to celebrate its three-year anniversary with a Yappy Hour, which will include tasty delights for both pups and people!
Here are some of Laura and Winston’s favorite finds:
Auburn Leathercrafters Rope Leash, $29.99
As a 2-year-old, 70-pound black Lab, Winston needs a strong leash. This one from Auburn Leathercrafters is durable and fashionable.
Louise Morris Large Dog Bowl, $25
Other End of the Leash supports local artisans like Durham potter Louise Morris, who makes these beautiful bowls – in a variety of sizes and glazes – by hand.
Mutt Nose Best U. Berry Clean Dog Shampoo and Conditioner, $15.99-$17.99
These natural pet cleaning products from Mutt Nose Best are also available in Berry Calm Puppy, Hairy Dog and Itchy Puppy.
Toppl Treat Toy, $14.99-$19.99
“Stick a treat in it!” Winston says. He bounced this Toppl toy by West Paw Design stuffed with Diane’s homemade bacon-cheddar treats all across the store.
Bren Sparling Watercolors, $65-$325
Winston thought he was looking into a mirror when he spotted this watercolor by Durham artist Bren Sparling. More animal art is displayed throughout the store by other locals such as Barbi Bailey-Smith and Jewel Conway. You can buy a piece, ready to go, or commission a personal pup portrait.
Other End of the Leash Treats, $4.99-$8.99
Diane makes treats in flavors like peanut butter banana, turkey kale and chicken pot pie daily.







