Pride of Guernsey: Creature Comforts

CREATURE COMFORTS is a family-run affair ‘for the love of animals’ which likes to reach out to the community with the same support it receives. This has earned it a nomination for the Alexander Daniels-sponsored Customer Service award.

CREATURE COMFORTS is a family-run affair ‘for the love of animals’ which likes to reach out to the community with the same support it receives.

This has earned it a nomination for the Alexander Daniels-sponsored Customer Service award.

In 2011, after 20 years in the finance industry, Michelle Botes was looking for a different career path. The opportunity to open a pet shop arose and Ms Botes jumped at the chance of working in the retail industry, especially as it involved meeting lots of dogs, supplying pet food and accessories for dogs, cats, birds and small animals. 

In an island full of contactless and internet shopping, Creature Comforts aims to offer good, old fashioned personal service with a smile. 

The friendly, knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer help and advice. 

Ms Botes said: ‘We are a local, family-owned business, with both my sons, Jack and Louis, being shareholders. Jack is also a director of Creature Comforts, working full-time in the shop alongside myself, Marc and Hannah. My mum, Bridget, also works part-time, together with Michele and my nephew Joseph.

‘Customers are welcome, in fact they’re encouraged, to bring their dogs in, where they’re welcomed with treats and cuddles. We’ve also had visits from cats, guinea pigs, rabbits, budgies and even a tortoise. 

‘I’m absolutely thrilled to be nominated for this award. I really love my job, so to be acknowledged in this way is just fabulous. 

‘I really couldn’t do it without the rest of the team though, they’re the best.’