Geaux Health & Fitness Magazine June 2014 | Page 32

feaux paws

the buddy loft story
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As a retail shop owner, the start of Amy Traylor’s day is typical – turn on the
lights, set up the register, make coffee, unlock the doors, etc. However, when
the first customer meanders in tongue panting, tail wagging and eager to sniff
every inch of the shop, another day of happiness ensues. Such is life at The
Buddy Loft.
The Buddy Loft opened on November 1, 2013, in Goodwood Village. It is
a specialty pet boutique for pets and their people. Buddy, the Basset Hound,
was Traylor’s inspiration for opening the shop. When Buddy found Traylor
in 2011, he seemed to know she needed him as much as he needed her. “How
Buddy became part of my family is a poignant story, but not necessarily a
short one,” Traylor remarks. Stop by the shop for a visit and she will happily
share the tale.
Traylor’s eclectic style is evident through the shop’s inventory, which is a
collection of handcrafted pottery, original art, jewelry, treats for pets, organic
catnip, unique toys for cats and dogs, collars, neck ties, collar bling, apparel for
pets and people, and much more. Many of the items cannot be found anywhere else in Baton Rouge. It is one of a kind and as one customer states, “It is
Baton Rouge’s best-kept secret.”
Walking into The Buddy Loft is somewhat like walking into someone’s home.
Traylor’s well-versed warm, Southern hospitality hallmarks the charming
experience one might expect at The Buddy Loft. As a child, Traylor often visited a business owner in her small town. “She would take me to the
kitchen; give me a cold bottle of Coke and a pile of animal crackers. I loved
being there and I want people to feel the same way when they shop here.”
The mission of The Buddy Loft is to deliver outstanding customer service;
and it is [their] commitment to be a community resource for responsible pet
ownership. The Buddy Loft proudly supports local shelters and animal rescues.
“It is important to give back to and support our community,” Traylor says. One
of her goals is to grow so that The Buddy Loft can be a major presence and
resource in the community.
Be sure you have time to spend when you visit. It should be an unrushed stop
to ensure that you see everything that is offered. Shop at The Buddy Loft
because you want the best for your pet. For location and hours of operation, go
to www.thebuddyloft.com. GH&F

A specialty shop for pets and their people
www.thebuddyloft.com | 225-772-4732
711 Jefferson Hwy #5, Baton Rouge, LA 70806
32

geauxhealthandfitness.com June 2014