“In the last five years, the neighborhood has become very doggy,” says Valerie Volinski, the owner of this pet-grooming-and-supply store. Her shop is a community center of sorts for pet lovers, who regularly stop in for conversation, dog treats and grooming. — Brian Keith Jackson
As a resident of Washington Heights with a new puppy, I was very happy to see Critter Outfitter move into the neighborhood. They provide a great selection of accessories, and the owner is quite knowledgeable. Products are priced well. The owner recommended a great dog-walker to us, and when our puppy had some training issues or digestion problems, we told her what our vet recommended, and she was very helpful in providing different dogfood selections, based on our dog's changing needs. The owner is very concerned with the health and welfare of the neighborhood pets, and is very active in donating money to shelters, and holding events to raise awareness for abandoned animals. The owner and staff work hard, and are not always able to be 'salespeople', but one quickly understands that any intensity or seeming aloofness evaporates once you communicate what you need for your pet. Once they get to know their regulars, you can be sure to be met with a smile, and an inquiry about how your pet is doing.