It takes real heart and soul to be in the pet industry. From leashes and grooming supplies to all the tricks and tips to keep your pet healthy, these companies understand that it takes a village. Gift Shop Pets caught up with some companies to find out why — and how they do what they do, and what makes them love it so much.

Son of a Sailor

GSP: When did Son of a Sailor grace the world with its presence?

William and Jessica Knopp, Co-Owners: 2011.

GSP: What can you tell us about the brand?

W&JK: The birth of the brand is inextricably tied to our own relationship — when we first met and began designing together, Son of a Sailor was the organic result. Son of a Sailor offers a full line of modern goods, handmade and constructed from heritage materials. Our leather pet line, Willis & Eastwood, is handmade in Austin from American leather and is hand-painted in bold colors and patterns. The Studio plays home to both the Son of a Sailor line as well as a curated storefront. As the studio expanded, we realized that this was the perfect opportunity to bring in other lines that are close to our hearts. The studio now carries a selection of brands, makers and goods.

GSP: What new products are you releasing this summer?

W&JK: We are excited about releasing new colors and designs of our Willis & Eastwood line, as well as a slew of new products in August!

GSP: What’s your favorite thing about the pet industry?

W&JK: The best part of making and selling pet accessories is getting to meet and pet so many sweet pups! The photo shoots are the best, and we have four-legged friends coming into the studio all of the time. Bonus!

Meet other makers in the pet industry:

• P.L.A.Y.: Pet Lifestyle and You
• Harry Barker

Sam Ujvary

Sam is the managing editor of Gift Shop Pets, Museums & More and Party & Halloween Retailer, and is a contributing editor for Gift Shop Magazine. She has a copywriting background and has been in publishing for six years.