Knoxville, October 22, 2025
News Summary
In Knoxville, Tennessee, local businesses are increasingly welcoming pets to improve customer experience. Monkey’s Bar, Lincoln’s Hemp Collective, Nostalgia, and Union Ave Books are among the establishments incorporating furry companions, enhancing their atmosphere and appealing to pet owners. These venues create a unique shopping experience that fosters community and friendliness, showcasing the growing trend of pet-friendly spaces in the area.
Knoxville, Tennessee, is witnessing a unique trend as local businesses increasingly welcome furry companions to enhance customer experience. This initiative not only promotes a friendly atmosphere but also serves as a marketing strategy that appeals to pet lovers in the community.
Monkey’s Bar, located at 103 W Depot Ave in Old City, downtown Knoxville, has been operating since December 2022 and is known for its resident dog, a golden retriever named Monkey. Owners and customers alike have come to appreciate Monkey’s warm greetings as he welcomes visitors at the door. The four-year-old dog, which will celebrate his birthday in November 2025, has become a cherished part of the establishment, with patrons enjoying the cheerful presence he brings. Bar staff describe Monkey as having “puppy energy” and a touch of friendliness that enhances the overall vibe of the bar.
Another establishment embracing this trend is Lincoln’s Hemp Collective, an educationally focused hemp store also situated in Knoxville. The store features two rescue dogs, a maltipoo named Lincoln and a Havanese named Zuzu. The owner of the store, Kathy Holt, has had Lincoln for three years and adopted Zuzu, who has a unique circumstance of being born without a right rear foot. Both dogs take on the role of store greeters, with Lincoln standing proudly at the door while Zuzu eagerly seeks attention from shoppers.
Vintage-themed store Nostalgia is another venue that enhances the shopping experience with resident cats. Since its opening in 2006, Nostalgia has welcomed customers with the charm of two cats named Oscar and Felix. The feline duo recently celebrated their 13th birthday, adding to their allure as they roam the store and greet visitors. Nostalgia also opened a new location on Chapman Highway this year and supports more than 30 dealers, showcasing a wide variety of vintage items.
Union Ave Books, a local woman-owned bookstore in downtown Knoxville since 2011, is also part of this growing trend. The store, which welcomes various animals, is home to a nine-year-old Havanese named Scout. Owner Flossie McNabb selected Scout for her friendly nature, and the dog has become a beloved figure among the shop’s visitors. Customers often inquire about Scout during their visits, highlighting the positive connection between the bookstore and its furry friend.
The presence of animals in local businesses is not only popular but also beneficial in fostering a friendly and inviting atmosphere for customers. This trend demonstrates how businesses in Knoxville are creatively enhancing customer experiences, making shopping a more enjoyable endeavor for pet owners and animal lovers alike.
FAQ
What is Monkey’s Bar and who greets customers there?
Monkey’s Bar is located at 103 W Depot Ave, Old City, downtown Knoxville, and has been operating since December 2022. The bar has a golden retriever named Monkey who greets customers at the door.
What are the pets at Lincoln’s Hemp Collective?
Lincoln’s Hemp Collective is an educationally focused hemp store located in Knoxville, and it has two rescue dogs named Lincoln and Zuzu.
What animals can be found in Nostalgia?
Nostalgia, a vintage-themed store in Knoxville, hosts two cats named Oscar and Felix, who have been at the store since they were kittens and recently celebrated their 13th birthday.
What is unique about Union Ave Books’ pet presence?
Union Ave Books is a local woman-owned bookstore that allows various animals, including a nine-year-old Havanese named Scout who has been part of the store for nine years.
Key Features of Knoxville’s Pet-Friendly Businesses
| Business Name | Location | Type | Resident Animal(s) | Established |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monkey’s Bar | 103 W Depot Ave, Old City, downtown Knoxville | Bar | Golden Retriever (Monkey) | December 2022 |
| Lincoln’s Hemp Collective | Knoxville | Hemp Store | Maltipoo (Lincoln), Havanese (Zuzu) | N/A |
| Nostalgia | Knoxville | Vintage Store | Cats (Oscar, Felix) | 2006 |
| Union Ave Books | Downtown Knoxville | Bookstore | Havanese (Scout) | 2011 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Knoxville Celebrates Witches Paddle on the Tennessee River
Downtown Knoxville Welcomes New Veterinary Clinic
Upcoming Events in Knoxville This Week
Knoxville Revives Pedestrian Zone in Market Square
Discover the Magical Ancient Lore Village Near Knoxville
Knoxville Prepares for Deep Freeze with Warming Centers
Additional Resources
- UT Daily Beacon: Paws and Positivity
- The Smokies: PETA Protests Store
- Knoxville Moms: Donation Locations
- Knox News: Plush Moon Terrarium Co.
- WBIR: Young Williams Animal Center Adoption
- Wikipedia: Pet Friendly
- Google Search: Pet Friendly Businesses Knoxville
- Google Scholar: Pet Therapy
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pets in Business
- Google News: Animals in Local Businesses
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
