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Community Corner

Support Pet-Friendly Small Businesses

Lulu recommends a few small businesses to check out on Black Friday and Small Business Saturday

by Lulu

Thanks to a few discipline challenges, I don’t expect lots of gifts under the tree this year. But there’s still time for me to redeem myself and earn a full Christmas stocking by helping others. In this economy, I hope you will take a moment to support the small businesses that make our neighborhoods special.

As you dash around the city in search of gifts this season, consider supporting these pet-friendly small businesses:

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Wag-A-Lot (Reynoldstown or Decatur)
I always put a little extra pep in my step when Mom takes me to Wag-A-Lot in Reynoldstown. Maybe that’s why I was voted “Best Strut,” this year. Consider this a destination for all things fun and fabulous, from pet bedding to toys and gear. There’s a super tough pet toy called Talulah turkey that’s just begging for me to destroy it. While the holiday spaces at Wag-A-Lot are filling fast, it’s a great place for pets to chill while parents do their shopping.

Park Pet Supply (East Atlanta)
Victoria Park, owner of Park Pet Supply, always finds the latest and greatest pet gear to keep people and their pets happy. Mom picked up a super yummy Himalayan dog chew made from cow and yak milk. It sounds weird, but this thing is awesome. I also saw salmon skin “bones” and Sam’s Yams sweet potato dog chewz that would make great stocking stuffers.

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The Ark Animal Hospital (Midtown)
I hate bath time. But Dr. Arhonda Johnson’s team at the Ark knows how to pamper a dirty dog. Midtown pooches get the full spa experience. Elevated tubs make this chore more tolerable for people and pets. How civilized! In addition to veterinary care, Dr. Johnson also offers boarding and emergency veterinary services.

VLH Studios (East Atlanta)
Whether you celebrate Christmas, Kwanzaa or Hanukkah, Vyvyan Hughes of VLH Studios offers pet portraits for the occasion. Don’t miss her upcoming photo shoot from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. December 4 at Park Pet Supply. This woman has the patience of Job and takes awesome pet photos. Book your appointment by emailing pibtullbella@gmail.com today, then share photos with EastAtlanta.patch.com!

Red Bandanna (14 locations, including Buckhead and Midtown)
I have a rather delicate stomach, so regular kibble simply won’t do. Fortunately, Red Bandanna stores specialize in all-natural cat and dog food formulas that are free of preservatives and other yucky stuff. They also believe in paying it forward, donating thousands of dollars to pet organizations such as Ahimsa House, which helps people and pets escape domestic violence together.

AARF Pet Central (Stone Mountain)
Whether you need training or a new addition to your pet family, AARF Pet Central houses everything under one roof. Proceeds from AARF Pet Central support Atlanta Animal Rescue Friends (AARF), a no-kill organization that has helped more than a thousand pets find forever homes. Bookmark the nonprofit’s Facebook page for information on low-cost vaccinations, schedule a training session with Lennox Gavin of Paws-A-Tive Results Dog Training or try the DIY dog wash stations — if you absolutely, positively must bathe your dog.

East Atlanta Animal Clinic (East Atlanta)
I’m not getting any younger. Fortunately, Dr. Karen Jordan and the team at East Atlanta Animal Clinic offer acupuncture to keep my aging joints moving smoothly. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it. Dr. Andrea Dunnings and her team make sure that even the most willful pooch leave healthy and happy.

Dogma Dog Care (Smyrna)
Sometimes I just need to get away from Mom and hang with other dogs. Dogma Dog Care is my other home away from home. In addition to family-friendly events such as “For the Love of Dogs,” this dog and cat friendly facility offers pet food, gear, and discounted daycare rates on Wednesdays. Say hello to owner Robin Crawford and her team for me.

Stay safe, pet lovers! Have a lovely Thanksgiving! Remember to keep pets safe this holiday season. Keep wrapped food out of reach and bookmark the ASPCA poison control site or save the hotline number (888) 426-4435, just in case your pooch discovers the holiday chocolate!

Remember, bad dogs have more fun.

— Love and licks, Lulu

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