Paws, People, and Purpose: A Henderson Pet Shop’s Commitment to Shopping Small

The Liberty Bell: External Contributor

For Small Business Saturday, Seth Crowley of gabbi’s Pet Boutique in Henderson saw firsthand what supporting local really looks like.

“The most enjoyable part of the event is seeing everyone participating,” Crowley said. “We see customers come in with their local love bags or their purchases they made at other businesses.”

To celebrate, gabbi’s Pet Boutique offered various coupons – some up to $20 off – bringing new faces through the door and reminding shoppers of the value found close to home. As a small business themselves, gabbi’s Pet Boutique is intentional about where their products come from.

“Our supply comes from other small businesses rather than large chains,” Crowley explained. “Everything from toys to treats and food, we choose smaller business distributors rather than the big names.”

That philosophy extends beyond just inventory.

“Our business is about building relationships with our neighbors, which turns into trust with one another,” he added, emphasizing the community-first approach that defines the shop.

Crowley also addressed a common misconception about shopping small.

“There seems to be a stigma around small businesses that we don’t have the same selection as what people are used to,” he said. “But when you get a customer through the door, they may find out we carry the same products that they get at the big names and have a competitive price.”

With a loyalty program that rewards repeat purchases, gabbi’s Pet Boutique often beats big-box pricing, too. The takeaway, Crowley says, is simple: “It’s important to keep your dollars here in town, and it’s not only an end-of-the-year thought. Support local all year long.”

You can read more about these efforts at 1776bank.com/locallove.