This week we're talking Small Business!

This is something we're passionate about not just because we are of course, a small business, but because we truly believe in it.

Here are some of the reasons you should support local small businesses whenever possible:

Support your local community

The first reason to shop small is supporting and shaping your local community. Local small businesses make up the neighbourhood, the employees are people you'll see around, who will remember you, and care about the place you live. Most of our staff live in East Van, and want to see it flourish. We give monthly to local charities and stay informed on issues that affect everyone here, not just our clients.

Have a say in the product selection

With an in-house product curator, and more quality time with our clients, we're able to provide what you need, and what you want for your pet. We're able to shift with trends, and get feedback directly from customers on whether a toy or food worked out for their dog.

Shop your values

Where you choose to spend your money has a direct impact on which products and companies grow, so vote with your dollar!

Here's what we believe in:

• We train dogs with positive and fear-free methods, and believe in using the least invasive and minimally aversive techniques.
• We believe that everyone deserves support, no matter their age, gender or sexual identity, race, ability, or religious beliefs.
• We value the earth, and consider the environmental effect in all aspects of our company.
• We believe in being a positive force, rather than a neutral one, when it comes to anti-racism and decolonization.

Our staff are part of our community too

Our staff earn a living wage, which in Vancouver means the minimum hourly rate is $20.52. We would be nothing without the amazing staff you see every time you pop in to grab some treats, or settle in for a long conversation about which food might be right for you.

Paying a living wage isn't just good business, it's good for the local economy, and community health.

It's better for the environment

Small local stores translate to less driving for your shopping, and an emphasis on stocking locally made products also requires less transport to get to the customer. Discover Dogs also has a packaging recycling program: any packaging you get from us can be cleaned and brought back and we will recycle it. Whether that means sending it through Terracycle for Open Farm products, or bringing it to the local Zero Waste facility.