colorful dog collars

Mercifully, Black Friday is behind us. There has been much promotion to Shop Small Businesses so that’s just what we’re doing — shopping small pet businesses locally-owned here in Tucson.

GIFTS FOR PETS

Greyt Escape
Collars and leashes, cards, and dog coats…these are a few of my favorite things. Greyt Escape is a Tucson greyhound resort (my greyhound Jett loves to go there) but if that is not enough to keep the proprietor Michelle Caillet busy, she makes dog collars and more in her “spare” time. You can buy the items on Etsy.com and in person, Michelle also sells doggie doodads at the Ventana Plaza (Sunrise/Kolb) farmers market on certain Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (She will be there Nov. 26.)

Urban Puppy
When not just any dog tag will do for your pampered pet — go upscale for a sterling silver, copper, or brass pet ID tag. While Nancy sells on Etsy.com — she is based here in Tucson.

Adventure Dog Ranch
Well-socialized dogs stay in a cage-free safe and secure environment with supervised hikes and exercise on trails in the expansive fenced acreage, dog playground, and swimming pool then relax on the large, shaded veranda. Dogs live and play with each other and the hosts, enjoying fun activities during the day and sleep on comfortable dog beds at night a la B&B accommodations. I wouldn’t mind staying here.

Pet Designs Salon
The hip place for cool dogs to be bathed and groomed and have their nails trimmed and even their teeth brushed. View the slideshow.

Dirty Dawgs
This is for DIYers who like to get down and dirty and wash their own dogs. DD provides the sink/tube, shampoo & conditioner, water, and encouragement. Mention small biz Saturday and receive 10% off any service.

GIFTS FOR PEOPLE WITH PETS

Loren’s Pooper Scooper
Treat your poopy-picker upper pals to Loren’s Pooper Scooper service. This is the ultimate indulgence or necessity depending on your priorities to have someone come to your backyard to scoop the poop.

Wild Bird Store
Locally owned the Wild Bird Store caters to the backyard bird enthusiast. Check out the bird feeders, bird food, bird baths, bird books, and bird art.

GIFTS FOR ANIMAL LOVERS

Beading Divas to the Rescue
During the month of November, fundraising bracelets benefit HOPE Animal Shelter. Bracelets cost $20 and the entire amount benefits the charity of the month. You can buy bracelets at Silver Sea Jewelry & Gifts, 330 N. 4th Avenue, in the 4th Avenue shopping district (next to Bison Witches Cafe) or at Sissy’s Pet Grooming Salon, 7350 N. La Cholla Blvd, in the Albertsons shopping center (at Ina Road) or online (add $4 S&H). Every bracelet is one-of-a-kind and comes with a paw charm dangling at the end.

While you’re at Silver Sea Jewelry & Gifts, pick up some beautiful baubles for yourself or gift list. While it’s always important to support the locally-owned store, it’s especially urgent during the holiday season.

Clues Unlimited Bookstore
Tucson’s only mystery bookstore has a good assortment of dog books and animal books and mysteries with animal characters.

Make a Donation
For the person who has everything or has a cause in which they are really dedicated, make a donation to their favorite charity in their honor or in the memory of their pet.

SHOP LOCAL TUCSON PET/FEED STORES

Azmira Holistic Animal Care Shoppes (2 locations)
OK Feed
Paws & Claws Boutique

What are your favorite locally-owned places to shop for pets and pet lovers?