More Than a Pet Shop: The Community Spirit of Bella's Pet Supplies

Plympton Magazine June 2026

27th May 2026

Published by info@oracle.uk.net on 2nd June 2026

Bella's Pet Supplies first opened its doors in March 1999, founded by Keren Delamare and named after her beloved dog, Bella. Following her retirement, Keren wanted to ensure that one thing remained constant: the shop's commitment to serving local pet owners with genuine care, expert advice and a personal touch that is increasingly rare in today's retail landscape.

The latest custodian of Bella's is Nicki Milburn, who officially took ownership of the business on 23 December 2025. After spending 25 years working as a veterinary nurse, Nicki witnessed first-hand the changing nature of the veterinary industry, with many independent practices becoming part of larger corporate groups. While this brought some benefits, she often felt that the personal relationships between pet owners and professionals were becoming harder to maintain.

When the opportunity to become involved with Bella's arose, Nicki describes it as a genuine "this is it" moment. Although naturally nervous at first, the transition period working alongside Keren quickly put her at ease and confirmed that she was making the right decision.

Since taking over, Nicki has continued to build upon the welcoming atmosphere that has made Bella's such a popular destination for Plymouth's pet-owning community. Regular customers visit not only for the extensive range of products but also for the friendly conversations, expert guidance and familiar faces that greet them whenever they walk through the door.

Alongside running the shop, Nicki also operates a small clinic where she can assist with nail clipping, ear care and other minor pet health concerns. Drawing upon her decades of veterinary nursing experience, she is able to provide practical support and reassurance for owners who may be unsure about the best course of action for their pets.
"In a world of increasing industrialisation and growing corporate control, Bella's will remain Bella's," says Nicki. "It's important that people feel the store is moving with the times, but also that it doesn't lose what makes it special."
For Nicki, Bella's Pet Supplies is far more than a retail business.

"It's the best thing I've ever done," she says.

"Bella's is more than just a pet supplies shop; it's a real community hub."
When asked about her long-term ambitions for the business, her answer is immediate.

"Whatever happens in this shop, it's got to keep that personal side to it."
That personal approach is evident from the moment customers walk through the door. While large chain stores may offer convenience, Bella's offers something much harder to replicate: genuine relationships. During our visit, a returning customer entered the shop and Nicki immediately remembered what they had purchased previously. With another customer, her first question was simple:
"Do you want to have a bit of a nosey around, or are you looking for something in particular?"

It perfectly summed up the philosophy behind Bella's. Every customer is welcomed as an individual, not simply as another transaction. It is this level of care that keeps people returning time and again.

Another major attraction is the shop's carefully selected range of pet food. Bella's stocks brands such as Nature's Way and Canagan, products that are often only available through independent retailers rather than major national chains. Nature's Way, in particular, has long been a popular choice among Bella's customers and is a local brand originating from Tiverton.

For pet owners, choosing the right food is one of the most important decisions they can make. High-quality nutrition supports healthy growth, strong immune systems, good digestion and long-term wellbeing. Just as people benefit from a balanced and nutritious diet, pets thrive when they are fed food made with quality ingredients and carefully developed recipes.

Many independent pet stores take great care when selecting the products they stock. Rather than filling shelves with whatever sells in the highest volumes, they often focus on foods they genuinely believe offer the best value and nutritional benefits. Independent retailers also take the time to understand the needs of individual pets, whether that involves managing allergies, supporting weight loss, addressing digestive sensitivities or simply finding a food that a fussy eater will enjoy.

This is one of the reasons many pet owners continue to trust independent stores. Advice is often based on experience and knowledge rather than sales targets. Staff get to know both customers and their pets, allowing them to recommend products that genuinely suit a pet's age, breed, lifestyle and health requirements. That level of personal service can make a significant difference, particularly for first-time pet owners who may feel overwhelmed by the vast number of options available.

Of course, food is only part of what Bella's offers. The shop is also stocked with a wide selection of treats, toys, accessories and everyday essentials. Nicki laughs as she recalls the countless occasions when dogs passing by have stopped outside and scratched at the window in the hope of being allowed inside. For many local pets, a visit to Bella's has become an exciting part of their routine.

Looking ahead, the future is bright. Nicki is gradually expanding the delivery side of the business, allowing customers across Plymouth, from PL1 to PL9, to have supplies delivered directly to their door. Plans are also underway for a new website that will showcase the shop's product range and provide customers with additional information about the business from the comfort of their own homes.

However, growth for growth's sake is not the goal. Nicki is determined to expand carefully and sustainably, ensuring that the qualities which have made Bella's successful for more than a quarter of a century are never lost.

In an age where many businesses are becoming larger, faster and increasingly impersonal, Bella's Pet Supplies stands as a reminder that community, expertise and genuine care still matter. For Plymouth's pet owners, it is more than just a place to buy supplies—it is a trusted local institution built on relationships, knowledge and a shared love of animals.