Diva Dogs

We are really excited about our next interview as it is with the incredibly talented (and gorgeous) Louise Harris, founder of Diva Dogs who has appeared on numerous tv shows in the UK.

We originally bumped in to Louise at the Sisu Hotel where she was enjoying the Essex Fashion week hosted by TOWIE twins Adam and Simon Ryan.

If you, like many other people are a lover of pets and in particular dogs, then you will love this interview as it is not only lots of fun but very informative.

You will see from the summary that not only is Louise someone that adores dogs but somebody who is very knowledgeable on all things doggy.

1. What made you decide to move into ‘doggy’ fashion as opposed to womens or mens?
I became mummy to Lola my Yorkshire terrier 6 years ago and wanted to give her the luxuries that i enjoyed. The UK didn’t cater for this.

2. You have appeared on many different tv shows and magazines, what was the most challenging and why?
The most challenging has been my last show “A very British Party” to be shown October 25 at 10pm. Watch! I had to organise the UK’s biggest Doggy party with cameras following my every move – Very stressful. However we had over 350 dogs attend.

3. Personally what is your favorite breed of dog and why?
I love Yorkshire terriers, I have four now. They are small enough to fit in perfectly with my hectic life. They do not moult so my house is always clean and they enjoy being with me all the time, very loving. They are perfect!

4. If you could choose any celebrities dog to groom and pamper whose would it be?
I’d love to Diva- up Sharon Osborne’s babies, they look so cute. Sharon seems to appreciate the connection between human and pooch. Plus she likes a bit of ‘over the top’ doggy accessorising.

5. What was your most memorable moment at Diva Dogs?
We love to provide amazing products and goods to our customers but the real joy is when we completely make over a pooch that looks shabby and unkempt. It’s like makeover TV in Diva Dogs sometimes. We just need curtains for the big unveils. Their mums and dads sometimes get very emotional with happiness.

6. What is the strangest thing you have had to do to a dog (at the owner’s request)?
We colour dogs! Normally pink (all safe for dogs of course). It does seem strange seeing a bright pink dog walking out of the salon. We are however very careful when coat colouring,. The dog must be confident and enjoy attention as PINK does increase the amount of people touching and wanting to interact with the lil one. This would not be suitable for a quiet and shy dog.

7. What is your favorite pooch film?
Beverly Hills Chihuahua and legally blonde or course

8. If you could choose another location to open your next Diva Dogs where would it be?
We are currently looking for additional premises but have not yet decided on an area. Suggestions would be appreciated!

9. What is the most expensive product you stock at Diva Dogs?
Currently we stock wrought iron couture made to measure four poster beds with silk curtain, the highest quality faux fur, Swarovski crystal adornments and scatter cushions in oyster pink. Lush! The smallest which is perfect for small dogs starts at £1,100. The larger the size the more expensive see link the website here »

10. What would you like to achieve by this time next year?
Diva Dogs has had amazing success here in the UK. We are leaders in the world of pampered pooches. We supply products world wide. However we feel that additional branches would be nice so watch this space, Diva Dogs may be coming to a town near you soon

11. What advice do you have for dog owners in Marbella to help keep their pooches cool and comfortable in the hot weather?

a) Take your pooch for walks early morning or late at night. It’s much cooler and more comfortable for them. Could you imagine wearing a fur coat and going for a long walk during the day?

b) Watch for signs of dehydration THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT. Dogs cannot sweat. They cool by panting. If your dog is drooling excessively then it is probably overheating so It will become tired get bloodshot eyes, and it may appear a little off colour. If you lift its skin, it will take longer than usual for the skin to fall back into place.

c) THIS IS ALSO VERY IMPORTANT! Keep your dog hydrated! Bear in mind that as in life pooches with darker coats absorb more heat than lighter coats. Also, overweight dogs can be more at risk of dehydrating. Always have a bottle of water when walking your dog or on long journeys portable bowls are ideal to carry with you.

d) Find a spot in the shade for your dog to rest away from the direct sun. You could set up a child’s pool. Lay down a wet towel for your dog to lie on. Or simply set up a fan. You can if it will not scare your dog spray it with a light sprinkle of water. We also have amazing cooling coats that can help. See here for more information on our website »

e) Dogs cool from the bottom up. Make sure to spray the paws and stomach, not just the top of the dog

f) Never leave your dog in a parked car. The car is hotter than an open area, even if it is in the shade. Sadly people believe that leaving a window slightly open will help. Is it worth taking this chance?

g) Allow your dog to swim. It is a fantastic way for them to cool down. Be aware of the depth of the area. Life jackets are available if you are concerned See here for lifejackets for dogs »