Husky News

When was the last time you took your pet to the store or saw a parrot sitting on its owner’s shoulders in the bird-food aisle?

Petco, one of the nation’s largest pet supply chains, encourages customers to shop with their family pet, whether it’s a dog, cat, hamster, reptile or parakeet. Employees stop and play with the well-behaved critters and shoppers at the retailer’s well-stocked superstores are often entertained by friendly barks, chirps and squawks instead of piped-in elevator music.

Bobbie Haskell of New Bedford enjoyed shopping at the new Petco in North Dartmouth earlier this week with her delightful French bulldog, Ava.

“She’s still young, so she chews a lot,” said Ms. Haskell, as the seven-month-old brindle puppy sniffed a large display of tempting canine confections. “I like shopping here because I can bring her. It’s a great thing and everyone here is very nice.”

Ava, who went home with a bag of food and some new toys, occasionally participates in the store’s play groups, which helps to socialize the inquisitive little dog and teaches her how to adapt to new situations.

Allison Gravito of New Bedford said she liked shopping at Petco because “it’s fun to see all the other dogs.”

DAVID W. OLIVEIRA/Standard-Times special Ava, a French bulldog, meets Chloe the Samoyed while their owners shop at Petco in North Dartmouth.

Sammy, her three-month-old Chihuahua/toy poodle mix, is a regular visitor to the store.

“It’s almost like a second home for him,” his owner said.

Sammy, who got a new dog collar, remained partially hidden under Ms. Gravito’s warm jacket for most of the shopping trip, except when he wanted to explore a large selection of dog biscuits.

“He looks at everything and he likes everything,” Ms. Gravito said.

Source: South Coast Today