Like many folks, lifelong New Jersey resident Patricia Dill used the pandemic to pivot her career. After owning a pet sitting business for 18 years, the rise of COVID allowed more people to stay home; resulting in less of a need for a pet sitter. So Patricia found a new way to work with pets: a dog and cat cafe and boutique called Doggie Sweets.
Doggie Sweets began as an online store and food truck called The Waggin’. Now, the business includes a physical pet cafe and shop. Doggie Sweets in Long Branch offers supplies, baked goodies, and social events for pets. Though Patricia is an NJ native, she had no connection to the town prior to opening her business. “We had zero connections in Long Branch other than driving in Pier Village,” the East Windsor resident explains. “We felt it was a community.”
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Pup-cakes, Supplies, & More
Of course, the best part of Doggie Sweets for pets is the cafe boasting pet-friendly ice cream and treats. Both dogs and cats can enjoy the selection of cookies, pretzels, and treats that look like bagels or cigars. Patricia also makes donuts and birthday cakes for pets. They have a seating area for dogs, as well as device charging stations for pet owners.
As for the shop, Doggie Sweets offers grooming supplies, harnesses, toys, and dog food, plus a dedicated birthday section. They also carry different sizes and styles of dog clothing and accessories. Guests can purchase their pooch any number of rhinestone necklaces, sunglasses, bows, or stylish leashes. Their online shop provides delivery and shipping options.
Photo Ops and Social Events at Doggie Sweets
Doggie Sweets includes a photo op area featuring a grass wall that changes with the holidays and seasons. They take reservations for photo sessions and special events such as Paint Your Pet Portraits. These events typically feature special guests like Santa Claus, The Grinch, and the Easter Bunny.
The store also hosts an array of animal-oriented events. For instance, they hold adoption events, egg hunts for dogs on the beach, and K9 meet and greets. During “yappy hour,” dogs and their owners can socialize as pets enjoy free “barkcuterie boards” and dog-friendly ice cream. In fact, they even host breed-specific yappy hours for pups like beagles, Frenchies, terriers, and shepherds.
Visit Doggie Sweets at 15 Morris Ave in Long Branch. Look for them online to learn more.
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All Photos: © Doggie Sweets