A DALE baker is enjoying a more relaxed routine after changing his customer base from humans to dogs.
Former Coghlans baker Owen Moody has traded in early morning rises to bake bread to become the new owner of Wellybix, a business producing handmade canine treats.
He said: “I finished at Coghlans in June and started getting preparations ready, taking over last month.
“It’s a big step for me because I’ve been a chef for 32 years working all over the country, so it’s stepping outside my comfort zone. But it’s like a breath of fresh air and I’m really enjoying the challenge of running my own business. My friends have been so supportive, giving advice.”
The business was started in 2012 by pastry chef Alison Walton after she baked some biscuits for her Jack Russell Welly, naming the brand after him. She developed a number of tasty recipes – including lamb with rosemary, peanut butter with spelt and chicken casserole with fresh thyme, all given the seal of nutritional approval by a veterinary laboratory.
Mr Moody, who has converted part of his home in Vane Road, in Barnard Castle, to accommodate an industrial kitchen where he can whip up large batches of the tasty dog treats, intends to develop more flavours and shapes for the treats. He even has plans to create a dog-friendly cupcake.
He added: “The work Alison has done with Wellybix has been amazing. The treats have all-natural ingredients and are good for the dog but are not a meal replacement.
“I want to carry on the name and business, moving it forward because it is my livelihood. A lot of people bought pets during lockdown and it is important to look after them and make sure they are eating the best ingredients.’
He admitted: “I have always loved dogs and being in the catering industry, being away from home for hours on end it was not conducive to having one. However now I’m hoping to get one, hopefully a wirehaired Dachshund.”
“It was a big decision for me to take the step of running my own business, but I’m really glad I have made the decision.”
As well as being available for sale in outlets across the north east, Wellybix treats can be purchased through the website and Mr Moody is attending outdoor events, starting with Eggleston Show.
He added: “I’m doing my first outdoor show at Eggleston and then Wellybix will be at the Festival of Thrift at Redcar later in the month, but I have been kept busy with orders from all over the country from the Brecon Beacons up to Scotland.”
For more information about Wellybix visit www.wellybix.co.uk
