This month, we got to sit down with a new Kensington business, Pet Planet! With the undeniable pet-friendliness of the Kensington neighbourhood, it’s no wonder that this family-owned business has fit right in. Catherine and Richard, owners of Pet Planet Kensington, spent two years searching for the perfect location to open a Pet Planet franchise and, after much research, determined Kensington residents needed their own pet nutrition store. By profession, Catherine is a wildlife biologist (BSc., MSc) with a background in animal physiology.
The Pet Planet team’s favourite things about being a part of the Kensington community are the friendly people that are excited to spoil their pets and the fact that so many of the local business owners have stopped by to introduce themselves and welcome them to the neighbourhood. The best part? Most people come in with their pets – many say that they come into the store whether they want to or not because their dogs drag them through the door!
Founded in Calgary (almost 20 years ago!), Pet Planet is different than other pet stores in many ways. Most importantly, however, it’s that their #1 priority is the health and wellbeing of the animals – they sell a carefully-curated selection of products, none of which contain chemical preservatives, animal by-products or rawhide. They abide by their ‘Certificate of Trust’, which is the philosophy through which they take their customer’s trust very seriously and work hard to both earn and maintain it. The store also has a veterinarian and pet nutritionist on their team, so they can have any questions answered professionally. In addition, Catherine, Susan and Katy (the three store ambassadors) are all proud pet guardians and have undergone training in pet nutrition.
When asked about the team’s go-to spots in the neighbourhood, they had trouble picking just a few. Some of their most common stops are Higher Ground, Espresso Cafe, Sunnyside Market, Peppino’s, Trend Fashions, Vine Styles and Kensington Wine Market (who hands out treats to pets that come through the store!).
The Pet Planet team has gotten to know a number of pets throughout the community – “too many to count,” to be exact. They love when people bring their pets in to shop with them and enjoy how unique each of them are. Disclaimer – they may not remember your name when you stop in, but they’ll surely remember your pet’s!
Hot tip: Stop by with your pet for ‘Treat Thursdays’ for 15% off treats, ‘Free-Biscuit-Fridays’ for a complimentary biscuit or ‘Bone-Tuesdays’ for $2.99 small smoked bones!
Carrying healthy pet food and supporting local brands are core values at the foundation of Pet Planet. For more information, visit www.petplanethealth.com or follow them on Instagram at @petplanetkensington or Facebook at Pet Planet Kensington.