Ridgefield’s newest pet store will open its doors on April 17. Pet Valu, a Canadian based company with hundreds of stores in Canada and the United States, will occupy the space that once housed Blockbuster, in Copp’s Hill Plaza.
We asked Amy DePaoli, Director of Marketing for U.S Pet Valu stores, a few questions regarding Pet Valu moving into town.
Q: What is the mission and purpose behind Pet Valu?
Pet Valu is more than just a pet food and supply store, it is a shopping experience unlike any other. While offering competitive prices, we bring Pet Parents the warm, neighborhood feel they are looking for when shopping for holistic and organic food, toys, and supplies for their four-legged family members. We are also proud to be community partners, with a heavy emphasis on supporting local shelters and rescue groups with adoption days and various fund raising efforts throughout the year.
Q: Why did you choose Ridgefield as the company’s first Connecticut location? We already have a few independently owned pet shops in town.
Ridgefield will be our first Connecticut location and we are very excited! The area is filled with pet lovers, and we feel that it is an area that has a need for a store like Pet Valu. We look forward to offering Pet Parents a unique shopping experience for their pets.
As the pet industry continues to grow, and there is an increase in demand for holistic and organic products, we find the most important thing we can offer customers in our knowledgeable staff. Pet food is more than just pretty bags. Every pet is different, and they all have different restrictions, allergies, or other conditions that dictate what they can and cannot eat. Our staff undergoes a rigorous training program, and at completion they receive a Certificate of Pet Nutrition from the University of California Davis. Education and training, along with our unique dog wash and grooming facilities are a few things that make Pet Valu different than your average pet store. Our self wash is a really fun, mess-free, way to bathe your dog. You bring the dog, we supply an apron for the pet parent, shampoo, towels, professional grade dryers, and you leave the mess behind! The self wash offers a great alternative to bathing your dog in your house or yard, and quick and inexpensive way to keep him sparkling in between grooming appointments.
Pet Valu will hold a Grand Opening Celebration on May 18. Plans are presently being finalized. We will share details when we have them.