Shop of the Week: Stadon Pet Supplies, Shirehampton

Settled on Shirehampton’s High Street, Gail Stadon has been running her pet supply business for 24 years.

The site was already a pet shop, before Gail took ownership and imbibed her wonderful personality to continue the site’s legacy through Stadon Pet Supplies. 

Fond memories of childhood pets surface upon entry, a feel-good feeling that arises from the ambiance of the shop.

Small green bins full of food line the middle of the store floor, a pick-your-own type of set up for customers to choose their own amounts.

A variety of pet supplies stocked within the small space.

The shop itself is truly an emporium of pet products, whatever you need they have it, and if they don’t, it won’t them take long to get it for you.

Descriptions of Gail from those working close to her appear to encapsulate not only her but her business.

Employee Melanie has worked for Gail for over a year and said: “Everyone knows Gail and everyone loves Gail.

“People come by to tell her just about their day.”

While new human friends are always a bonus, animals are at the heart of why they do what they do.

Meeting through their love of dogs, Gail became a great source of help after Melanie’s dog fell pregnant: “She recommended which products I would need, and we became fast friends because I was coming in so much.

Going above and beyond for customers is not uncommon in the shop as within five minutes of chatting with Melanie, a pair of customers came in carrying a large glass cage that Gail had offered to resell.

Products from the store can also be purchased and ordered on Deliveroo. Dog, cat, rabbit and guinea pig food as well as toys, treats, fish and bird supplies can all be ordered at customers convenience through the app.

Despite a limited online presence, the glowing reviews of the shop highlight the welcoming atmosphere the employees create. They offer the kind of customer service that can’t be replaced by franchises.

When asked about the craziest story to happen in the store, Melanie said: “You just missed a snake!”

The remarkable snake had actually been ordered by the shop for a customer, through Gails contacts.

The customer in question had even let Melanie hold it.

“Got any mice?”: said another customer, in way of greeting.

“It’s your lucky day there are four left”, Melanie replied.

Despite being in a rather quiet area of Bristol, Stadon Pet Supplies encompasses the community love that flows through the area.

The shop sits amongst other small businesses, such as a family-owned butchers

It is clear how much the shop values the local support they have accumulated, particularly after surviving through COVID.

New faces may not be common, but it’s obvious the shop deserves the love it so generously gives out.

Stadon Pet Supplies, Elizabethan Cottage, 26 High St, Shirehampton, Bristol BS11 0DL

All photos: Ellie Hastie

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