This store has gone to the dogs

After more than 20 years working in the dry cleaning industry, Mark McEachern decided it was time to take a walk on the wild side. His new family-owned venture, Woof Gang Bakery, opens at 10 a.m. today.

"We needed a change," he said.

While the dry cleaning business was good to him and his family, people just don't get passionate about their clothes, but they do about their pets, he added.

"When someone walks in the door (here), they have a smile on their face," McEachern said. "It's very fulfilling."

The bakery, at 18875 State Road 54, is located in the Sunlake Centre next to Publix. The shop is part of an Orlando-based franchise that features specialty dog and cat food and treats for any kind of diet. It also bakes its own line of dog treats.

McEachern said he intends to introduce some of his family's own recipes as well.

"It's very flexible," he said.

In addition to pet food, some toys and supplies, the store also will feature products made in the community, including a line of designer pet clothes, McEachern said. His shop may also run recipe contests.

The business is run by McEachern, his wife, Sheryl, and his parents, Ray and Pat. The McEacherns' two sons, Brandon, 2, and Justin, 2 months, will be seen around the shop, which is one of the reasons the family was so interested in making the switch into a business such as a dog bakery.

"We were looking for something closer to home," Mark McEachern said.

For her part, Sheryl McEachern said the business is the perfect opportunity for her family and it fits their passion for pets.

"I always wanted to be a vet," she said. "When he found this (franchise), I was like, 'Oh my gosh!' My dream job would be working with animals ... this is the next best thing."

The bakery is pet friendly and will offer monthly "Yappy Hours" to raise money for charities, such as dog rescues. Hours of operation are still fluid, but Mark McEachern expects it will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends.

The grand opening is planned for 10 a.m. today. The first 20 dogs in line will receive free treats for a year. A pet photographer will be on hand to take shots of owners and their companions. For information, call (813) 949-3644 or go online to www.woofgangbakery.com.