NEWINGTON - A mother-and-daughter-owned pet store opened this April.

       Hound and Home LLC Co-Owner Jennifer Walker said she and her daughter, Kayla, started as entrepreneurs during the pandemic.

       “Just over two years ago, Kayla was making dog collars, and I started my dog treats business,” Walker said. “We were doing farmers markets, craft fairs, and wholesaling, but it was always Kayla’s dream to open a store.”

       The store is located at 2600 Berlin Turnpike and is open Wednesday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

       According to Walker, the business offers treats from her company, Muddy Paws Barkery, and collars, signs, and decor made by Kayla.

       “When we decided to open the store, we wanted to add something unique,” she said. “So we did a self-serve pet wash, and now we will have a groomer in a couple of weeks.”

       Walker said the business aims to be community-based and work with other local nonprofits and small businesses.

       “We rent out space in the store to other small business crafters and artisans to sell their products as well,” she said.

       Walker said the business had many events, such as candle-making and dog painting. She also said she received support from the town’s residents.

       “Being Newington locals, we only looked in town to open up our business,” she said. “It’s nice to open up something where you live and support the community where you’re from.”

       According to Walker, she hopes to hire adults with disabilities and believes in an inclusive workplace. She also said the business works closely with veterans.

       “It’s important for us to give back to our local community,” she said. “We have a donation collection for the Connecticut Human Society, and we work with rescues.”

       Walker said the store is similar to a boutique and focuses on dog health and nutrition.

       “We have a lot of raw food products, healthy food products, and my dog treats are all-natural,” she said.

       Walker said her daughter created the business’ interior design and is a great work partner.

       “I’ve been there to support and help Kayla to get the business off the ground and start up,” she said. “It’s nice that we have each other, and we’re there to support each other.”

       Kayla Walker, a co-owner, said the business also sells local teas, honey, and maple syrup.

       “Someone that doesn’t have an animal could still come in here and find some cool gifts,” she said.

       According to Walker, the business began as a mobile pet store.

       “My focus was to be affordable and to have other handmade items in the trailer,” she said.

       Walker said that since opening the business, the start-up process has become less stressful.

       “We couldn’t wait to get here,” she said. “Now that we’re open, running, and everything’s done, it’s calmer.”

       For more information on the business, visit /www.houndandhome.org/ ">https:/ /www.houndandhome.org/ or call 860-594-4000.