This month, we focus on two of the more unusual pet stores you’re likely to come across. Located in Northwest Washington, Bridges Pets, Gifts and Watergardens in Lake Stevens and its new 21,000 sq ft. sister store in Snohomish continually strive to create a “Wow” factor for shoppers through its unique mix of products as well as its inviting décor.
Owner Dan Eylander uses his creative talents to make the stores a must visit destination for area pet owners.
The stores feature oak shelving and sturdy hardwood furniture in place of the usual sterile-looking warehouse-style store fixtures. It’s all meant to remind shoppers of their own homes, and to make them want to stay a while and browse.
“We really try to make it a homey, family-type atmosphere,” Snohomish manager Julie Bailey explained.
The stores also feature extensive water garden supplies and accessories, as well as a well-stocked gift shop that sells plush toys, glassware, cards, statues, framed art, and various other items.
Julie explained that Dan loves the beauty of outdoor fountains, plants and gardens, and relishes the opportunity to pass his vision along to his customers. A former youth pastor and accountant, Julie said Dan had a goal of creating a business that people would enjoy visiting.
On the pet side, the stores sell a full selection of live animals—birds, fish, dogs, cats, ferrets and reptiles. Store associates specialize in the different animal categories, and continually update their knowledge by reading in-store books, talking to sales reps, and through cross-training each other. Many associates call manufacturers directly for more information about the products stocked on their shelves. There’s even a TV tuned in to Animal Planet that serves to instruct both customers and store associates. Julie said it’s this approach that sets the stores apart from others.
“We’re very big on customer service—we want everyone to feel comfortable here,” she said. An integral part of serving the customer is giving knowledgeable advice on the products stocked at the store.
Bridges sells close to 40 brands of dog food, with Holistic brands leading the way in customer popularity. Julie said the holistic concept—giving dogs grain-free, human grade food--is a big trend that shows no signs of slowing, despite the current economic conditions. The food is particularly well-suited for animals with allergies or skin conditions.
“People will always want to feed their pets the best,” she said. Julie knows of several vets who tell her the healthiest and best animals they see in their practice are fed Holistic foods.
After pet food, Coastal products are a big part of their business, with customers buying collars and leashes “constantly.” Basic colors and patterns sell the best.
Other trends in the dog aisle are strong sales in dog clothes, owing to the popularity of small breeds that actually get cold and need to stay warm in the cool Northwest climate. Surprisingly, shoes are also a big category for the store.
Julie said customers ask for them every day. Bridges carries a line of well-designed shoes that actually fit great, Julie said. “They stay on, and cost about $39.” Customers buy them to protect the pads of the dog’s feet from heat and from cold.
Pet owners are also spending money on toys and treats, and Julie said it’s normal to see people spending $50 to $60 a purchase when they come in the stores.
“People may not go on a vacation this year, but they’ll still spend money on the family dog,” she said.
Reptiles are another big category for the store.
“It’s a huge trend for us,” Julie said, “We purposely made the reptile section very big. Customers are split about evenly between male and female, a noticeable difference than when Julie was growing up, where girls traditionally stayed away from reptiles of all types.
“These days, girls don’t seem to be afraid of snakes,” she said.
Shortly, the original Lake Stevens store will expand, as soon as the tenant next door vacates, allowing Eylander to knock out some walls and begin remodeling later this spring. It will be exciting to see what he creates with the additional space. Visit Bridges online at www.bridgespets.com to get a taste of what the store offers.