A South London pet shop, which has been running for over 60 years, is set to close next month, blaming rising costs and a growth in shoplifting for its demise.

Dabners Pet Shop in Croydon has served generations of pet owners in the area but with increasing financial pressures the owners have now decided to call it a day.

Company director Mark Oram said: “It gives me great sadness to inform you all that the Dabners website will close immediately and the 60-year-old Dabners pet shop in Surrey Street Croydon will close its doors for the very last time on the 16th August 2025.

“I would like to thank the thousands of customers for their loyalty and support over the last 60 years, you will be very much missed by myself and all the staff, but unfortunately with continuous rises in overheads, which were made particularly bad by the present government, and the significant growth in shoplifting, this family independent pet shop will now sadly have to close for good.

“Once again, many thanks to all our loyal customers for their support and my wonderful members of staff for their hard work and enthusiasm over the last 60 years.”