It’s 2024 and we’re still waiting for the tech gods to grant us the gift of pet language. In the meantime, we asked our friends on social media to spill the kibble on where pets — and savvy owners — shop locally for toys and treats.
Bone-A-Patreat is paws down the best! They pawsitively go the extra mile to get the things my dog needs and wants, most recently some adorable sweaters. Junie loves shopping there! — Jody Valentine
Jett & Monkey’s Dog Shoppe is the absolute best spot! Don’t let the name fool you: They have goodies for kitties, too. The Bonetique at Paws & Pints is also a fabulous place to pick up things to spoil a pup. — Tara Platt
Smitten Kitten in Des Moines and Ankeny has a wonderful food selection and all kinds of cool toys. They know everything about cats! — Sharla Fraker-Zubulake
The Hiking Dog Co. has incredible lifestyle items, and they’re very knowledgeable. — Shannon Bogolin
One-stop shopping at the Great Iowa Pet Expo, every October for the last 25 years. There are groomers, photographers, trainers, boarding, indoor dog parks, new products, custom products, products not sold locally, pet-related home improvement services and even rescue animals of all types — reptiles, bunnies, turtles, cats and dogs. — Cathy Erickson
Bone-A-Patreat is our favorite! They know our dog, Tailgater, and our family and are always ready to help us find what we need. They help bring your purchase to the car, and they also deliver. — Ruth Sparks Staplin
And one staff recommendation: The pet boutique inside Canine Clean sells the most beautiful dog collars, embroidered by Mom & Pup Co. They come in extra small so my chihuahua can have a perfect fit, and the pom-pom adornment takes the cuteness factor to a new level. — Mathany Ahmed