Pet project place

By Mara Pattison-Sowden
THREE animal lovers have taken over the Yarra Junction pet shop, turning it into a pet palace where almost any animal’s needs can be met.
Tania Thomsen, Jane Crosby and AJ Thomsen recognised the need to start up Pick a Pet to provide a friendly and helpful service within the community.
Jane said most of their knowledge and experience came from being dedicated and loving pet owners.
“Animals have always been a big part of us; they will always give you plenty of love and attention and play a very special part in our lives,” she said.
“We are dedicated to the health and well-being of all our animals.
“Both Tania and I have experience in managing business and AJ has a natural ability and understanding of all animals.”
The women have been running the business for five months, and have transformed the shop into a menagerie to encourage children to interact with the animals in store.
Play with the cute kittens, watch the hermit crabs race each other and marvel at the fresh and saltwater fish.
Take a fish home, along with any aquarium needs such as lights, gravel, plants and ornaments.
Flying friends in store include eclectus parrots, cockatiels, hand tame and aviary budgies, love birds, canaries, finches, rainbow lorikeets, quail, galahs, poultry and baby chickens and ducks.
“We try to cater to special requests from customers,” Jane said.
“And if there is something you want, we will always do our best to get it in, customer service is a priority,” she said.
Jane said pooches in need of a pamper could come and meet their groomer Jill, who provides a grooming and washing service, nail trimming and in store find dog treats such as bones, toys and bedding.
“Jill is very dedicated to her work and no job is to big or small,” Jane said.
“She offers a free nail trimming service and you will be more than satisfied with her prices.”
There are products on sale for all animal grooming, medicated soaps and creams and flea treatment.
The shop will also offer a micro-chipping detection service.
Jane said the shop was a warm and friendly environment, with the aim to please all of their customers.
“We are happy to have contributed to organisations for fund-raising within the community in any way that we can,” she said.
“Come in and see us even if it’s just for a chat.”
Pick a Pet is located at shop 3/2455 Warburton Highway, Yarra Junction, and is open from Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm, and Saturdays from 9am to 5pm. For any specific requirements give the girls a call at the store on 5967 2272, log on to www.yarrajunctionpickapet.com, or give feedback to their Facebook page.