Dog Ponchos for all Shapes and Sizes
Jenelle and Bob, the dynamic husband-and-wife duo behind K9 Ponchos, have been living in Baja, Mexico for the last 15 years. During their time soaking up the sun, they began to notice a problem in their neighborhood and surrounding areas: so many dogs were roaming the streets, going hungry, or living in very poor conditions. Being dog enthusiasts, (with a special fondness for Boston Terriers) they knew something needed to be done.
The idea for K9 Ponchos came to the two of them while walking their dogs, Sophia and Lucca one morning. Before the sun rises and the heat settles in, the weather can be a chilly 60 degrees, so it wasn’t uncommon to see neighbor dogs in all kinds of dog clothing and accessories to keep them toasty. Jenelle and Bob were repeatedly struck when they witnessed stray dogs wandering without a home, and how cold they were without a form of clothing. Influenced by the Mexican culture, Jenelle put her sewing skills to work and began creating dog serapes, which is a term used for a blanket with a variety of uses. These blankets are not just for warmth, but are also used as table cloths, bed decorations, and of course, ponchos. In addition, serapes are popular for their bright and vibrate colors and the fact that no two are the same.
The first day Jenelle and Bob put the ponchos on their dog-children, they received constant inquires as to where they got the ponchos, how they were made, and where interested parties could purchase them. Before long, the business was born. Today, the couple sells the fashionable dog ponchos for all shapes and sizes of dogs and even plan on starting a line for cats. Though cat owners may shudder at the idea of trying to put their feline friends in any form of clothing, Jenelle and Bob have found success in their kitty version of K9 Ponchos. After an afternoon cookout with some friends, they tested a small poncho on the host’s sphinx who was regularly shy and not really friendly. As it would turn out, once the poncho was on, the cat was so pleased she even sat on a stranger’s lap! Bob and Jenelle realized that the poncho was no longer just a good use for chilly weather, but calmed the animal like a warm hug.
With the money earned from the poncho purchases, the couple donates to four different pet charities around Baja, helping those chilly pooches they saw on their many walks in the morning. These products are great for both owner and pet alike, and support a great cause. If you are interested in supporting, and in turn, be sure to visit their website.
Photos Courtesy of K9 Ponchos