A LARGS cafe owner has got keeping pets cool this summer licked - after launching a new 'dog-friendly' ice cream.

Jim Walker, who owners the Green Shutter in Bath Street, says the new creation has 'cone' down a storm with local canines eager for a cool treat during the recent spell of hot weather.

Pet lovers have been barking mad for Scoops ice cream, which is available in tubs, and has less sugar and less lactose to make it easier for dogs to digest.

Jim said: "We get it from one of our local suppliers in Gourock.

"The main difference is that there is less lactose and less fat in it and there are some added treats in there too.

"It also keeps the dogs cool in the summer and helps them relax for a wee while while their owners come in for a bite to eat.

"We have some regulars and often post a wee gallery online of some of the customers' dogs tucking in. My own springer spaniels Murdo and Spook loves it too.

"It is a vanilla flavour. It has not been unknown for dogs who love it to drag their owners in looking for a bowl of it when out on a walk.

"One woman showed me a video of her daughter out with their dog. It was walking fine until it got to the war memorial and it started pulling her over to our front door. It wouldn't move until it got its Scoops!

"Largs is known as the home of ice cream so it is great to offer a dog version."

The ice cream, includes supplements for helping to keep joints strong, Omega 3 oil for a glossy coat, Vitamin C for their immune system and curcumin, which is a natural anti-inflammatory.

Jim, who appeared on BBC Breakfast recently talking about the impact of level zero on the restaurant trade, said: "The warm weather recently has provided a great boost for local businesses and we can keep the dogs as well as the owners well replenished."