
Who knows pet-friendly places better than those who create them? Some of DC’s most notable and active pet lovers take a moment to share where they can be spotted enjoying time with their pets around town. We call it Pawin’ Around.
Kristina Robertson owns the wildly popular Barkley Square Gourmet Dog Bakery & Boutique in Alexandria’s Del Ray neighborhood, as well as Karing by Kristina Pet Care.
I had the pleasure of meeting two of your Chihuahuas at your store in Alexandria. Are they your only dogs?
My husband Grayson and I are proud parents to four Chihuahuas. Cocoa, a chocolate male (our only boy!), Tasmania, a fawn female, Gigi, a black and white female and our most recent family addition, Gracie, a brindle female.
Many people don’t realize dogs such as yours, seemingly in high-demand, can actually be found at shelters or breed specific rescues. All four of your dogs are from rescues correct?
Yes, they are all rescues. Gracie is from the Alexandria Welfare League. Gigi, Cocoa and Tasmania came from the Prince Georges County Animal Shelter.
What’s the best thing about having them in your life?
Wow, just one thing?? I guess that greeting I receive when I come into the house. I could be gone all day or just down to the post office and they greet me with such passion.
What pet-friendly locales in the DC metro area do you enjoy going to?
We love to visit our friends at the Pawticulars Gourmet Pet Boutique. Then there are Yappy Hours at Chef Geoff and Cafe Ole.
At the bakery the owner treats every guest like they are her only customer, taking time with them, answering questions and making you feel right at home. Its also a great sensory experience for the pups.
The Yappy Hours are put on by a group called PAL - People. Animals. Love. The bar/restaurant lets all the pups and their people come and enjoy their outside facilities while offering lower priced drinks and fare.
The single most important question, if your pets were a celebrities, who would they be and why?
Gracie is so new to my family that she will have to be a TBD. Cocoa would be Kato Kaelin, because he's so naïve and trusting. Tasmania would be Hillary Clinton because she is strong, determined and if you're in her way she'll walk right over you. Gigi would be Carol Brady because she is motherly, proper and serious - all while making everyone smile.
Kristina’s Spots:
Barkley Square Gourmet Bakery & Boutique
2006 Mt. Vernon Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22301
Pet boutique specializing in original, fresh baked treats, custom birthday cakes and gifts galore!
Pawticulars
407 8th St SE
Washington DC 20003
Conveniently located near Capitol Hill, providing high-end foods, stylish collars, clothing, treats and bedding. They recently began offering dog walking, pet sitting and training as well.
Chef Geoff's
Locations in Tysons Corner and Washington, DC
Throughout the year, Chef Geoff hosts happy hours for guests and their dogs, with proceeds benefiting a pet charity. The next takes place on Wednesday, August 26th, with the aforementioned PAL as the beneficiary. When a Yappy Hour is not scheduled, dogs are welcome on the patio and fresh water will be provided for them in a custom dish.
Café Ole - Mediterranean Bistro
4000 Wisconsin Ave, NW
Washington, DC 20016
Café Ole has generously hosted happy hours and dinner benefits for various local pet charities. Their enclosed patio is always open to dogs.