HOW INVALUABLE ARE OUR ANIMALS?

The Animal Human Relationship Founder and owner of Rollo London speaks openly about the importance of the animal / human relationship whilst reflecting upon how these majestic creatures have helped her get through some of her toughest times and why it’s been so important to incorporate them into the heart of the brand.

The interaction between animals and humans is age old. Whether you work with animals, own pets, or use them within a profession (medical, military, etc) the relationship and diversity is limitless.

Brought up in outside London, animals have been central to Alex’s life. From farm animals to pets, you name it. Alex says, ‘life was unglamorous but idyllic’. ‘Where there are animals there is always a responsibility’ but Alex recalls ‘It wasn’t until I moved to London that I realised how vital they were to day-to-day wellbeing’... ‘where you have something depending on you, you have to think of them first, even if you are having a bad day, you can’t ignore them’. Whilst this may seem to some as being a burden, it has been well proven that canines are often used to aid addiction recovery as well as well as depression amongst multiple other medical conditions. Having battled with health herself, Alex credits her animals, namely dogs and horses for her recuperation. It was the hours of caring for them which brought welcome relief slowly leading to complete recovery. Alex now has her gorgeous home bread Labrador, Magic who accompanies her everywhere and has been an inspiration throughout lockdown.

Often asked about why the greyhound was used as the face of Rollo, Alex explains ‘as well the symbolism, this is very much a family breed’. New members of the charm family soon to be launched include the leopard and monkey.

However, the importance of animals goes far beyond human benefit. They hold a key role in environmental protection, ecological balance and the food chain.

Ensuring animals, but, namely the greyhound are at the forefront of our lives, the Rollo team have taken their key features and subtly incorporated them into every single design. Whether in the form of characteristics, charm, printed layout, stunning finish, sharp lines or texture, the more you look the more you will find!

Enlightening us further into what’s special about our chosen three;

The Greyhound; an ever-loyal breed with an undying faith. Known for their lightning speed, sleek physic and unquestionable elegance. These hounds make wonderful companions, family members, protectors and once upon a time were used for hunting. Today, when not at home curled up by the fire, we often see them gracing the racetrack.

In Egypt the greyhound was only second in importance to the birth of a son and frequently buried alongside their owners. When a ‘hound passed away the whole family would go into mourning’. Greyhounds are seen on tombs both painted and in sculpture form.

The Monkey: The cheeky one? Yes, but they represent so much more. Full of joy and mischievous in nature, they represent deep knowledge, courage and intelligence. They are solutionists filled with compassion. The monkey can’t live alone, preferring to live in packs. Eastern symbolism shows the monkey as 9th in the Chinese zodiac and any child born during his year is considered to be clever. In Indian mythology the monkey is the most influential animal for his strength and loyalty. In Japanese history the monkey is seen as a herald of the of gods, a physical manifestation of god and protectors against demons. In Africa, some believe the baboon was involved in the development of science and art.

The Leopard: Strong, stealthy, regal, powerful and eternally graceful, this big Cat is one of the Kings of the animal kingdom. With speed up to 58kph and known for elegance in spite of adversity, they are pound for pound the strongest of cats and renowned for their agility. In Egypt the leopard is a sign of divinity, therefore, when this magnificent creature crosses the track of a human, their path becomes holy. The Leopard is further considered is a sacred being, a provider of sound advice and successful warriors. In Africa, they are considered protectors and a Guardian of the Dead, carefully leading them to their next kingdom.

As we can see, animals hold considerable significance in all our lives, far beyond what we may consciously be aware of. Whether you are simply an admirer or involved with animals, there is no question of their importance. Therefore, ensuring Rollo and our growing animal family at the heart of the Rollo London brand is essential.. The more you look, the more you will see just how they influence the products you see before you. They are tangible, tactile and elegant whilst also being relatable and a pleasure to be around.