Among the familiar faces at Kingfisher Dog Park in Fourways is Clayton Gere, whose handcrafted creations help make life with pets a little more comfortable.

From cosy dog beds and blankets to treat bags and car seat covers, Gere has built a business around creating practical items for animals and the people who love them.

His journey into the business began around 2015, drawing on experience gained from his sister. He also came to understand how Fourways residents love pets. “I took the experience from my sister, who was making bags. As I grew, I started making beds, and people began giving me suggestions about what else I could make.”

Those suggestions helped shape his growing range of products, which now includes bags for dog walkers to carry treats, as well as car seat covers to protect vehicles when travelling with pets.

Read more: What to do when your pet goes missing in Johannesburg

Gere’s work is driven by a practical understanding of what pet owners need. His dog beds, for example, have removable covers and washable cushions, making them easier to keep clean.

Although he did not formally study fashion or design, sewing was something he encountered during his school years. It was only later that he began to see the possibility of turning that interest into a livelihood. “When I was at school, I used to do fashion and things like that, but I didn’t take it seriously at the time. Later, I started thinking that this was something I could manage to do, and I started from there.”

Today, his skills extend beyond pet products. Gere also makes picnic bags with insulated linings to keep food cool, wine bags, blankets, and garden cushions. He takes on repair work too, including fixing cushions using waterproof materials.

Despite the variety of items he produces, dogs remain a familiar part of his world. Gere grew up around dogs and still considers them part of his family, although he does not currently have a dog of his own in Gauteng. His affection for animals is evident in the thought he puts into making products for them.

Also read: Thinking of gifting a pet this Christmas? Here’s what you should know

For Gere, Kingfisher Dog Park has become an important part of his working week and a place where he has built relationships with local residents and dog walkers. He is there every Saturday and Sunday, from about 08:00 until 17:00, and visits other locations to connect with customers. “The people here at the park support me. Some of them already know me, and they place orders and support what I do. I really appreciate the local community and the dog walkers around here.”

That support has helped him continue developing his business, with customers’ requests giving him ideas for new products and ways to improve what he offers.

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