Wags to Wiskers offers a holistic mix of natural pet foods and community
At my house we don’t have any pets. Nothing feathered, nothing furry. My family has launched a campaign against me and my enjoyment of an animal-free home with no walking duties and no pooper scoopers.
The conversations and debates have lasted all summer, and were just starting to die down in an it's-no-use sort of way. Until I told them about my interview with Dena Gilmore, the owner of Wags to Wiskers, the new Pet Supply store that opened this month in Ann Arbor.
Wags to Wiskers is what Gilmore calls a community-based store with a focus on holistic pet foods - everything from dog to cat. She opened the first shop in Saline in 2002, and since then locations have popped up in Dexter, Gaylord, Chelsea, and now Ann Arbor.
Gilmore, with a Masters degree in business, and 8 years of successful work at Ford Motor Company under her belt, woke up one morning finding herself looking for work that offered more meaning. She remembers musing “what do you love, what do I love?” She knew the answer was pets. “I don’t want to wake up in thirty years and wonder what did I give back. I can make a difference; I can do it with pets.”
Her goal is to offer a nutritional diet to animals that won’t cost the owners an arm and a leg; she says she wants to make a living, not a killing. Her prices reflect that; some large bags of specialty dog foods are a full $4 cheaper than what is offered at the big box competition.
Through personal research in periodicals, books, and theories of pet nutrition, and by talking with veterinarians and pet food manufacturers over the years, Gilmore has developed a real knack for helping customers solve their pets’ problems with proper nutrition. She wants Wags to Wiskers to feel like a true community; a second home to the patrons and their pets. “If certain products are requested, I am going to order them. I am going to learn from my customers and they will learn from me.”
I ask Gilmore about her pets at home. She lists Bismarck (giant schnauzer), Deliah (boxer), Buddy (mix), Arnie (mix), and Tyson (boxer)—5 dogs, 3 of which are rescued. The conversation picks up as we talk about their personalities and temperaments. She excitedly starts offering me encouragement and advice when I mention that my family has been given adoption approval by a local Boxer Rescue. She is supportive, and readily shares ideas for minimizing dander and allergens, a must for our family.
I am not sure when our dog owning days will begin, but I know when they do I will be making a visit to Gilmore and the other pet-passionate staff at Wags and Wiskers. The commitment to community, family and pets distinguishes them from the pack.
STORE INFO: Wags to Wiskers
2425 W Stadium
734-769-2000
Hours: Monday - Sat 10am-7pm, Sunday 12-5pm
Lead Shopping Blogger Angie Smith will hunt for deals and dish on the latest in retail in Ann Arbor. Readers will attain notices of great deals, and store happenings in and around the city. To report a news item or tip contact her at angieannarbor@gmail.com.
Comments
Robad1
Wed, Dec 9, 2009 : 11:09 p.m.
Wags to Whiskers is a wonderful business that offers a very personal touch. A large area of the walls at the Saline store are covered with pictures of customers pets. Taking my dogs there reminds me of years gone by when I took my stepchildren to toy stores. My dogs get excited when we get near the store. Dena and all the staff are very friendly and knowledgeable. Treat yourself and your pets to trip to one of their locations soon.
Leah
Sat, Oct 31, 2009 : 8:42 p.m.
I agree with your family. You need a pet. How about a cat?