Since 2006, We Lov Pets has been connecting Mount Vernon with beloved furry – and scaled, winged, gilled and feathered – friends.
We Lov Pets, ar 1433 Coshocton Ave., calls itself the “local pet professionals.” The team offers education on owning pets, food and supplies, grooming and other fundamentals of animal care, often visiting schools and other organizations to share all things pet knowledge.
“You have to want and be able to put the time, effort and, most importantly, love into your pet,” said Austin Fowler, store manager of the Mount Vernon location. “They are not always the easiest animals to take care of, but when you do it correctly, they are very rewarding as companions.”
Fowler started working at the store as a sales associate in 2018 and accepted the store manager position in September 2020 after a series of promotions. The most surprising part of running a pet business, he said, has been the behind-the-scenes work:
“Things our guests and even associates don’t necessarily realize is such a vital part of maintaining our store,” he said, such as financials, inventory, vendors and distributors.
The store adopts out reptiles, birds, rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, rodents, fish and, of course, dogs and cats. Outside of those two, small mammals are the most common adoptees, and pet owners also regularly seek out We Lov Pets experts for fish and reptile knowledge and supplies.
“I believe the ideal pet owner for both dogs and cats is fairly similar,” he said. “I think dog owners need to be more of an extroverted person, while cat owners can be introverted. Dog owners have to want to interact with their dogs as they need lots of attention. They have to enjoy taking their dog out to play and get exercise so that their dog will stay healthy and happy. Cats do not need nearly as much attention; they are much more self-sufficient.
“For many people, dogs and cats are able to fill a void that people cannot, and I think that's really cool and unique.”
Fowler’s store also offers grooming as of July 2021; a new groomer is set to start at the store in the coming weeks offering nail trimming, ear cleaning, bathing and haircuts for most dog breeds.
“She is very excited for the opportunity,” Fowler said. “Clients can book appointments with her by contacting the store.”
We Lov Pets in Mount Vernon is one of four locations; the other three are in Zanesville, Marietta and New Philadelphia. The store is active in the community in several ways, including annual support of the Knox County Fair livestock auction, feeding programs for local law enforcement K-9 units and contributions to WNZR, breast cancer awareness organizations, the Knox County Animal Shelter and the Fairways Condominiums.
For more information, call 740-392-0059 or send email to contactus@welovpets.com.
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