Every good animal owner wants to find the right food for their furry friend. Whether you have an animal with special dietary needs or one needing extra nutrition for their stage in life, finding the best commercial food for them can make all the difference in their health and daily lives.
There is good news and bad news. The good news is that between local stores and online retailers, there are tons of options to help you find the right diet for your cat or dog. On the other hand, it can be a real challenge sorting through your options to find a trustworthy and reliable source for a high-quality diet!
But don’t worry. This guide will go through all the important considerations as you look for the right vendor for all the needs of your four-legged family members.
Does It Matter Where You Buy Pet Food?
Let’s start with the most basic question: Does it even really matter where you buy your animal’s meals?
Yes, it does! Your animal has unique nutritional needs, so it is vital that you find a reliable vendor who can help you find a healthy kibble formulated for them.
Your choice will also depend on other factors such as budget, location, and special dietary needs.
As a general rule, your options boil down to a big box store or grocery store, a locally-owned store, or an online retailer.
What To Look For In a Pet Food Store
So, what should you take into consideration when looking for the right place to shop for your pet? The options might feel overwhelming. Here are a few things that you should review when making your choice.
Selection
The first and maybe most obvious criterion is a pet store’s selection. This can vary significantly based on the type of store (such as locally-owned, chain store, or animal section in a grocery store, for example) and the location.
The good news is that these days, many places have a range of options in terms of pet supplies. That often encompasses fresh and dry food as well as specialty blends for different stages of life. Some shops even have more specialized diets for animals with certain health problems, such as allergies, kidney stones, dental issues, and more.
Of course, having a wide selection doesn’t necessarily guarantee quality. Ideally, a pet store will feature high-quality brands of all different kinds.
If your four-legged friend is on a special diet because of allergies or other health problems, finding the right meals for them can be a challenge. Many locally-owned shops will put in special orders for you (or already have the specialty brands in stock!).
Budget
Cat and dog food can vary significantly in price depending on a few factors. That includes quality of ingredients, brand, and if it is formulated for any specialty diets. Smaller shops may have more expensive options, but they also tend to have better brands that are healthier for your cat or dog. That said, every good vendor offers options for a variety of budgets.
Ownership
People can and do buy animal care products at large chain stores. But there are definite advantages to finding a local store that specializes in premium pet supplies.
Shopping local is always a good choice. In addition to supporting your town economy, you will also be helping local animal shelters and rescue partners. Small pet stores are often a one-stop shop not just for supplies but also for adoption events and even veterinary services.
Locally-owned shops also showcase personalized, curated service. You are likely to find high-quality dog and cat food, treats, toys, and much more. Many small shops can also order supplies on request.
Other Perks
Quality animal care shops often feature promotional deals, memberships, and other ways to increase savings. These will vary from place to place but could include a free bag of treats after a certain number of purchases or discounts with subscriptions. They can be a great way to save, especially if you are buying more expensive specialty items!
In-Store Pickup or Delivery
Don’t think that shopping local means that you won’t find things like curbside pickup or even delivery. Many smaller shops are featuring services like this these days, making shopping for your furry friend more convenient than ever. Check out your local pet vendor’s website to find out what they offer.
Service
One of the biggest standouts of specialized pet vendors is that they care about animals. When you walk in, you are likely to be greeted by name, especially if you bring your animal friend along for a visit. Expect your cat or dog (or any other animal, for that matter) to be offered treats, belly rubs, and more.
Small shops are all about providing real care and connection to animals and their owners, so it is no surprise that the people who work there love their animal friends. This is a huge contrast to chain stores, where employees don’t have the time or freedom to make a real connection.
When it comes to getting your pet the quality items they need, this can make a huge difference. Employees will get to know you and your animal and help you find the perfect items to help them live a happy and healthy life.
Visit My Pet Naturally To Find The Best Nutrition For Your Pets
My Pet Naturally features a range of top-quality, holistic products to make it easy to keep your animals healthy. Our knowledgeable staff can help you compare options so you can choose the best nourishment for your pet’s unique needs. In addition to food, we also have all the animal supplies you need, as well as supplements and even grooming services.
Whatever kind of animal you own — from dogs and cats to chickens or even something more unique — we can help you get everything you need to keep them happy and healthy. If you are on the hunt for a premium animal care shop in Santa Monica, stop in to My Pet Naturally.
