Retired police dog launches new Jollyes pet store in East Kilbride

A retired police dog stole the show at the grand opening of a new pet store in East Kilbride. Corrie, an Alsatian who served for six years with Police Scotland, officially declared the Jollyes store at Kingsgate Retail Park open on Saturday, November 30. The ceremony was made even more special with a St Andrew’s Day piper accompanying the furry guest of honour.

Corrie, who was lovingly assisted by South Lanarkshire Provost Margaret Cooper, showcased her skills by biting through a string of sausages to mark the store’s opening. The event was a heartwarming moment, symbolising the dedication and loyalty of service animals even after retirement.

The growing pet retailer, Jollyes, now boasts over 100 stores across the UK. The new East Kilbride store aims to become the go-to destination for pet parents in the area, offering the best value for their furry friends. With plans to introduce raw food frozen ‘shop-in-shop’ sections and community pet clinics offering essential vet services like microchipping and vaccinations, Jollyes is set to cater to the diverse needs of pets and their owners.

As Corrie enjoys her well-deserved retirement, she is supported by the National Foundation for Retired Service Animals, Jollyes’ charity partner. This heartwarming partnership highlights the importance of recognising and honouring the service of working animals like Corrie, who have dedicated their lives to serving and protecting others.

The opening of the East Kilbride store is part of a series of new Jollyes locations launching across the UK, with stores in Leyland, Lancashire, and Newport Road, Cardiff also opening within a fortnight. These new stores aim to bring quality pet products and affordable services closer to pet lovers in different communities, strengthening the bond between pets and their human companions.

In conclusion, the official opening of the Jollyes store in East Kilbride was a memorable event that celebrated the service and dedication of a retired police dog while also marking a significant milestone for the pet retailer’s expansion. This heartwarming story reminds us of the special bond between animals and humans, showcasing the vital roles that service animals play in our lives even after their active service has ended.