The Animal Store

We're Moving Our Blog

2011-09-19T17:37:00.001-05:00

We've migrated our blog over to WordPress and hope you'll come with us. Click here to take a look and get a sneak peak at the general design of the new website.

Be sure to follow us on the new blog. This will be our last post here and this blog will be coming down as soon as the website goes live.

From the Way Back Machine

2011-09-19T11:52:00.001-05:00

If you haven't heard, we are hard at work on a brand new website. We know, it's about time. But don't worry, it's going to be great — well worth the wait.

While picking through the material on the old site to see what is worth reposting on our beautiful new site, we came across this beauty shot from the Way Back Machine. With humble apologies to Becky (a truly beautiful woman) for reposting what is probably not her favorite picture, we did think you would get a big kick out of seeing Kenn with a full head of jet-black hair. This was taken a little before his youngest son, Seth, was born. Is the grey hair that's happened in the 13 years since his birth a coincidence? We think not.

The Craftsman Experience

2011-09-18T13:41:00.002-05:00

Today, at 2:30 p.m., The Animal Store will be featured live on SCREW*D: Where Survival Comes Down to the Right Tools — The Craftsman Experience. The crew visited the store and one of our most exotic animals will be making an appearance. Don't miss it.

This was a live stream that is not currently available. As soon as they post the video on YouTube, we'll add the link here.

craftsmanexperience at livestream.com

Help Local No-kill Shelter with Your Vote

2011-08-18T19:48:00.000-05:00

Our friends at the Buddy Foundation, a nonprofit foundation no-kill shelter, is looking for your vote. The shelter has a has a chance to win a $25,000 grant from EMC Insurance Company. $25,000 will help them provide food, shelter, and medical care for hundreds of homeless and abandoned animals.

Show your support.

Click here, then click on the round purple kitty button on the right to vote.

Vote daily through October 8th.

Thanks.

Pixie Frogs New at The Animal Store

2011-07-11T08:00:00.002-05:00

When you hear the word "pixie", the first thing that comes to mind is probably a tiny, fairy-like creature with wings, making magic and causing mischief — not a giant bullfrog. The African Bullfrog, pictured here, is also known as a Pixie Frog and it gets its common name from its scientific name, Pyxicephalus adspersus.

This frog is brand new to The Animal Store and is already bigger than a baseball. Young Pixies are bright green in color, but they become duller as they age, and adult males have a yellow/orange neck, while the females will have a creamy white one. These animals are native to sub-Saharan Africa and are the second largest amphibian in the world. Adult males can grow to nine inches long and weigh more than four pounds. They have been known to live as long as 40 years.

Stop in soon an meet the newest addition to our amphibian collection.

We're Havin' a Party

2011-07-08T22:03:00.000-05:00

This weekend we're throwing Spur a big welcome home party, and around these parts that means big savings for you. Kenn's so happy to have her back that he's offering 25% off everything* in the store. Yep, everything.

And just so the fish department doesn't get jealous of all the attention being lavished on Spur, we're also offering buy 2 get 1 free on all fish**. Plus, don't miss our sidewalk sale savings, with discounts up to 60% off of select merchandise.

And see that groovy button featuring Spur's famous photo? Our good friends at Busy Beaver Button Co. made them up in a hurry just for the party. Saturday and Sunday, we're giving a free "I found Spur …" button to the first 200 customers.

Bring Spur a leafy green or two to welcome her back. Get great deals and a free button. And join the party:

Saturday July 10 — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday July 11 — 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

*Good on white tag prices only.
**Of equal or lesser value.

Big Weekend at The Animal Store

2011-07-05T19:52:00.009-05:00

If you have been following along on Facebook or Twitter, you already know that the 4th of July weekend brought a lot of excitement to us here at The Animal Store. In the end, the news was good: Spur, our beloved Sulcata tortoise was returned safe and sound. Thanks so much to everyone who showed concern and helped to spread the word. We feel very lucky to have her back.

Stay tuned for even more fireworks next weekend, when we plan to celebrate Spur's return with a big Tortoise Welcome Home Party for our whole community.

When we say Spur is famous, we're not kidding. She's been featured on the radio, in newspapers, on TV, on blogs, and in humor columns, from Chicago to Seattle to Missouri to Florida to Croatia to Australia. You know your news is big when the Internet begins to mock you. Here's the latest roundup; some posts helped bring her home, some were pretty funny, and some were just plain outrageous.

ABC7 WLS-TV Chicago "Spur the Tortoise stolen from pet shop"

ABC7 WLS-TV Chicago "Stolen Tortoise found in Lincolnwood backyard " target="_blank"

Chicago Tribune "70-pound tortoise lifted from Lincolnwood pet store"

Chicago Tribune "Tortoise stolen from pet store returned 'with only a few minor dings'"

SunSentinel.com (Ft. Lauderdale, FL) "70-pound tortoise lifted from Lincolnwood pet store"

Orlando Sentinel (Orlando, FL) "70-pound tortoise lifted from Lincolnwood pet store"

KY3 (Springfield, MO) "70-pound tortoise lifted from Lincolnwood pet store"

q13fox.com (Seattle, WA) "70-pound tortoise lifted from Lincolnwood pet store"

Gather "70-Pound Tortoise Stolen is Home Again"

Herald Sun (Australia) "Stolen exotic tortoise found in nearby backyard"

Perth Now (Australia) "Stolen exotic tortoise found in nearby backyard"

The Daily Telegraph (Australia) "Stolen exotic tortoise found in nearby backyard"

CourierMail (Australia) "Stolen exotic tortoise found in nearby backyard"

Chicago Sun-Times "70-pound tortoise stolen from Lincolnwood pet store"

Chicago Sun-Times "Happy ending for stolen 70-pound tortoise"

WLS 890 am radio "70-pound tortoise stolen from Lincolnwood pet store"

NBC Chicago "Giant Tortoise Stolen from Lincolnwood Shop"

NBC Chicago "Stolen Tortoise Home Again; Anonymous tip leads to Spur's safe return"

Lincolnwood Review "Tortoise stolen from Lincolnwood pet store is returned"

WGNtv.com "70-pound tortoise lifted from Lincolnwood pet store"

WGNtv.com "Tortoise stolen from pet store returned 'with only a few minor dings'"

WGN radio 720 "70-pound tortoise lifted from Lincolnwood pet store"

WGN radio 720 "Tortoise stolen from pet store returned 'with only a few minor dings'"

KY3 (Springfield, MO) "Tortoise stolen from pet store returned 'with only a few minor dings'"

HULIQ "Tortoise stolen from Chicago-area pet store returns home"

Steve Dale's Pet World "Stolen Tortoise Didn't Get Far"

Triblocal Skokie "70-lb Tortoise Stolen from Lincolnwood Pet Store"

Triblocal Skokie "Tortoise Returned to Lincolnwood Pet Shop"

Fox Chicago News "70-Pound Tortoise Stolen"

UPI: Odd News "Big turtle stolen from pet store"

iStockAnalyst "Big turtle stolen from pet store"

dalje.com (Croatia) "Big turtle stolen from pet store"

Detective Shaved Longc*** (some material on this blog may be offensive to some readers) "Update: 70-pound tortoise stolen from pet store returned 'with only a few minor dings'"

Fark.com 25 comments (some material on this site may be offensive to some readers) "70 pound tortoise stolen from Chicago area pet store. Frantic owners now checking eBay, Craigslist, restaurant specials of the day"

Fark.com - 31 comments (some material on this site may be offensive to some readers) "M..i..s..s..i..n..g.....t.o.r.t.o.i.s.e.....r.e..t...u.nn..e.d.......t.o......w..o...r...r..i..e..d...o.w.n.e.r."

Great News. Spur is Back!

2011-07-03T11:55:00.003-05:00

Animal Store Kenn Bearman is happy to welcome
Spur back home.

Spur has been found and is back home safely here at The Animal Store. Our giant, 70-lb female Sulcata Tortoise was stolen when someone broke in very early Saturday morning, smashing the front door, avoiding our security cameras and taking only Spur.

An anonymous tip led to her return today with only a few minor dings. She's a little freaked out and, as you can see in the picture above, reluctant to come out of her shell, but we think she will be just fine.

Thank you to the Chicago media for their efforts to get the word out to the community.

And thank you to all the friends of The Animal Store who shared our story on Facebook and Twitter. We really appreciate your efforts and concern.

Giant Tortoise Stolen from The Animal Store

2011-07-02T09:59:00.005-05:00

Please help us find Spur.

In the wee hours this morning, we go a phone call at home — never a good sign. Someone had broken into The Animal Store here in Lincolnwood and stolen Spur, our 70-pound, four-foot-long Sulcata Tortoise.

Anyone who has visited us knows that Spur is a part of The Animal Store family and a part of the community. People who come for coffee at Starbucks next door will stop in and say hi to her. Kids love her and she frequently travels with Kenn on school visits, scout troop visits and visits to homes for the elderly. She has lived with us here with us for 20 years, but is actually about 30 years old.

Her beauty, size and visibility in the community make Spur easy to recognize. It's hard to hide a 70-pound tortoise. In addition to missing her terribly, we are very concerned for her welfare. Sulcata tortoises need a specific kind of lighting (that is very expensive), and have exact humidity and special dietary requirements. If these needs are not met, Spur could become very sick or even die.

If you have any information about Spur, or think you have spotted her, please contact the Lincolnwood Police at their non-emergency number (847) 673-2167. We would like her returned as soon as possible.

Going on Vacation? We Board Pets

2011-06-25T22:30:00.000-05:00

Summertime is here, which often means traveling away from home for a summer vacation. But before you hit the road, board a plane or hop a train, let us help you make sure you have a safe environment for your pet while you are away.

The Animal Store offers boarding services for your bird, reptile or small animal. Call or email us today to find out more information or to make a reservation. Bring your own cage, or use one of ours. We can even clip your bird's wings or trim your pets nails while your gone.

Beagles and Kong Guest Post

2011-06-22T23:25:00.000-05:00

This guest post is reprinted with permission from the fabulous blog of Melisa Wells called Suburban Scrawl. Thanks Melisa!

One Pet Peeve Down…
by Melisa Wells
from Suburban Scrawl

If you’ve ever known the joys of owning a beagle, you know that the breed comes with all kinds of eccentricities and baggage that show themselves just often enough to keep you in line and remind you who’s really in charge.

When Roxie was a puppy, a friend of mine took care of her for a weekend while we were camping, and upon our return said to me, “She’s just cute enough that all of your friends will want to watch her…ONCE.” Roxie has electrocuted herself once. She has been skunked once. She has escaped from the back yard around five times (including the time she was discovered running down the middle of the golf course behind our subdivision, big ears flapping in the wind). Where our late, great Bijoux had that adorable beagle bay that everyone loves because it sounds so dang cute, Roxie was “blessed” with the annoying type of surprising, blood-curdling howl that scares the bejeezus out of anyone who is hearing it for the first time (and sometimes the second). She does that “reverse sneeze” that is common for the breed, and, well, I love her dearly but it’s embarrassing to take her anywhere.

Roxie will also do anything for food. Anything. She has stolen more food in her seven years of life than Bijoux did in her entire thirteen, I think. Roxie has eaten entire loaves of bread just like her predecessor, and chocolate (never enough to warrant a stomach-pumping, but nonetheless), and crackers, and cookies, and, well, anything she can get by standing on her hind legs and swiping off the countertops or dining room table with her paws. She has even been known to slurp up a glass of milk or soda if I accidentally leave it on the table next to the couch when I get up to get something from the kitchen. She does this without spilling a drop, leaving the glass standing proudly on its coaster as if I put it there fresh out of the dishwasher. It drives me insane. INSANE, I tell you! She will stealthily carry off an empty wrapper that one boy or the other leaves in his trashcan, and lick it for dear life, in case there might be a microscopic crumb of its former contents stuck to the inside.

Not only does she eat anything she can get into her mouth, but she doesn’t even chew. She inhales. When it’s time for her to eat what we intentionally give her (dog food) in the morning and the evening, she sucks up the little nuggets so quickly and violently that over the past couple of months she’s been choking herself. (But it doesn’t stop her from eating, oddly enough.) I worry that one day, she’s going to excitedly run over to her food dish, start her inhaling process, and die because nobody was right there to give her the Heimlich.

I think I’ve found a solution, though.

(Note that this is NOT a sponsored post in any way, shape, or form.)

I read somewhere a couple of weeks ago that you can slow down your rapid-eating dog by putting her food into a container that acts like a puzzle: she has to use her mental and creative skills to figure out how to get the food, and thus doesn’t choke herself to death from the lack of a challenge. I took her to get her nails trimmed today, and remembered to look for this amazing contraption. Lucky for me, they were in stock:

Truth be told, I love this brand. Ages ago we bought one of the smaller toys and stuffed it with dog treats: Roxie, being really smart (as beagles tend to be), learned how to pick up said toy in her teeth and flip her chin so the toy would go airborne before bouncing on the floor, the impact making the treat slot open enough for the treat pieces to pop out. As I stood there at the store today, I imagined the entertainment possibilities for something like this.

Then I saw the picture of the spokesdog, in the corner of the package. She looked very familiar …

As I inspected the package, I had a great laugh:

Contrary to what this company thinks will happen, I know that beagles are not usually truly appreciative about anything, especially something that is going to stand in between them and food. In fact, I figured that the purchase of this meal tool just might cause Roxie to hold a grudge against all four of us for longer than you would think possible, for a dog and all.

As it turns out, we all had a great time! (Mostly us, watching her.) It took her about eight minutes to eat her dinner, as opposed to the 45 seconds it usually takes, and tonight’s mealtime was silent except for the sound of that red plastic Wobbler being pushed all over our living room. It was glorious.

Now if I can just find a way to change the way she howls …

*****

Thanks so much to Melisa for this great post. In honor of Melisa and her beagle, we would like to offer a 15% discount* off all Kong products to our readers. Just come in to the store and mention this post when you check out to get your discount. No coupon necessary.

*Offer expires July 22. Good on white tag prices only.

A New College Graduate’s Search for the Perfect Pet (Part 3)

2011-06-16T17:00:00.000-05:00

Welcome back to Lisa Shoreland, with the final installment of her three-part guest post. Let's see which pet she finally chose.

Lisa Shoreland is currently a resident blogger at Go College, where recently she’s been researching aerospace engineering scholarships as well as health administration scholarships. In her spare time, she enjoys creative writing, practicing martial arts, and taking weekend trips.

My Final Decision
by Lisa Shoreland

Drum roll, please … After considering all the pros and cons, I’ve decided to purchase a cat as my pet. They have a little bit of a startup cost for the shots and them spayed or neutered, but I should be able to work that into my budget.

In my opinion, female cats seem to have better dispositions than males (although this is not universally true; I’ve met male cats with nice dispositions as well). While female cats don’t spray like males, they do still go into heat and can keep you up at night screeching like a banshee at doors and windows in there quest for a mate, so having my new female kitty spayed is my first order of business as soon as she is old enough.

If I find my kitten gets too lonely in the house by herself all day, I can always get a second cat so that they have a buddy to hang out with while I’m at work. It seems only fair to consider the needs of the animal as well as my own needs. I hope my kitten isn't too mischievous. I had some friends that had a couple kittens that stayed up all night making all kinds of noise, the last thing I need when starting a new job.

My sister has a Maine Coon, and considering her disposition, personality and furriness, I think that’s what I’m going get. The Maine Coons do have some common physical ailments that plague their breed, so I will spend the extra money to have the cat screened first. I’m so excited to finally get my own kitty!

Were you surprised by Lisa's choice? Let us know here. Cats can make a great first pet. Our own new family kitty, Pekoe (named for the tea), is incredibly friendly. She even comes when we call her. If cats aren't your cup of tea, let us help. Whether you have a small space, no back yard, allergies, a limited budget, small children or other special considerations, we can help you find just the right pet to add to your home.

In honor of Lisa's guest post and all you new grads out there, The Animal Store would like to give you a graduation gift. Bring in some proof of your recent graduation and get 25% off your entire purchase• of a new pet and all the supplies you need to get started. For those who have already graduated or are still in school, mention Lisa's post for a 10% discount.*

*Offer expires June 30. Good on white tag prices only.

A New College Graduate’s Search for the Perfect Pet (Part 2)

2011-06-14T17:00:00.013-05:00

Welcome back to Lisa Shoreland, with Part 2 of her search for her first post-college pet. Today she shares her decision-making process. Tune in on Thursday to see what she finally decides.

Lisa Shoreland is currently a resident blogger at Go College, where recently she’s been researching aerospace engineering scholarships as well as health administration scholarships. In her spare time, she enjoys creative writing, practicing martial arts, and taking weekend trips.

Pets I’m Considering
by Lisa Shoreland

I’ve compiled a list of the different pets I think could possible fit all of my needs. I’m going to consider the pros and cons of each pet to determine which one I’d like to buy. Although there are some pets that might fit this list of needs, I’m going to rule out lizards, snakes, spiders, rodents, and birds because none of them appeals to my personal tastes. Although a ferret or a hamster might fit my needs, personal childhood experiences have led me to take them off the list as well.

Small Dog

Pros	Cons
Great personality	Shots and spaying/neutering can be expensive
Furry and nice to pet	Need a carrier for travel
Will curl in your lap	Require more attention and care than other animals on list (e.g., regular baths)
	Can be paper/litter trained, but tend to take longer to house train
	Some apartments don’t allow dogs
	Can be destructive to furniture
	Have that dog scent, even with regular bathing
	May bark and anger neighbors

Cat

Pros	Cons
Independent	Shots and spaying/neutering can be expensive
Quiet	Need a carrier for the move
Clean	Male cats are known to spray furniture
Have a personality	Can be mischievous and claw furniture
Furry and nice to pet
Cat's purring is soothing
Will curl in your lap

Aquarium with Fish

Pros	Cons
Visually Stunning	No personality
Very low maintenance	No real companionship
	Difficult to move

While we don't necessarily agree with Lisa's assessments of each type of pet, we do like and recommend her process of creating a list of pros and cons about which pet will work best for you. If you have questions or we can help you overcome a particular "con", let us know. Part 3 with Lisa's final descision will be posted on Thursday evening, June 16. In the meantime, what was factor that tipped the scales in determining which pet you would choose? Let us know here.

In honor of Lisa's guest post and all you new grads out there, The Animal Store would like to give you a graduation gift. Bring in some proof of your recent graduation and get 25% off your entire purchase• of a new pet and all the supplies you need to get started. For those who have already graduated or are still in school, mention Lisa's post for a 10% discount.*

*Offer expires June 30. Good on white tag prices only.

A New College Graduate’s Search for the Perfect Pet (Part 1)

2011-06-12T23:46:00.000-05:00

This is our first guest post on The Animal Store Blog. Please welcome Lisa Shoreland, who will discuss her search for her first post-college pet in a three part series. Stay tuned this week to see what she decides.

Lisa Shoreland is currently a resident blogger at Go College, where recently she’s been researching aerospace engineering scholarships as well as health administration scholarships. In her spare time, she enjoys creative writing, practicing martial arts, and taking weekend trips.

Why Get a Pet?
by Lisa Shoreland

Having just recently graduated from college this last semester I’ve been excited to finally go out into the workforce. I’ve been interviewing with companies and trying to find that perfect fit. While I am quite excited to get started with “real life”, I’m finding that I’m not spending quite as much time around people as I used to. While I was in school I got to see my friends almost every day and, although we still hang out on the weekends, my days are filled with talking to HR reps and trying to find that next interview. In light of all this, I’ve decided to get a pet, just a little companionship for me while I’m getting settled into a working life.

Due to my situation, I have some specific requirements when it comes to owning a pet. I will likely be moving shortly, so I have to take that into consideration. I’m a new grad, so I don’t have tons of disposable income and I have to make every penny count. I will most likely be moving into an apartment, which will probably be pretty modest. I may or may not have access to a yard. Most of the jobs I’ve been interviewing for are either shift-work and/or salaried with lots of overtime.

So my pet is going to have to provide some amount of companionship while being relatively inexpensive, somewhat self sufficient, easy to move, be an indoor animal without needing too much room, and have a quiet disposition so as not to upset any neighbors.

Which pet will Lisa choose? Part 2 of her search will be posted on Tuesday evening, June 14. In the meantime, what was your first pet as a "grown up"? Let us know here.

In honor of Lisa's guest post and all you new grads out there, The Animal Store would like to give you a graduation gift. Bring in some proof of your recent graduation and get 25% off your entire purchase• of a new pet and all the supplies you need to get started. For those who have already graduated or are still in school, mention Lisa's post for a 10% discount.*

*Offer expires June 30. Good on white tag prices only.

Photo credit: COMMENCEMENT
© Attila Huszti | Dreamstime.com

Chews and Hides can Keep Your Pet Healthier

2011-03-19T13:27:00.000-05:00

Lumber-Jacks New Trainer Maze

One of the biggest trends we've seen is an increased interest in the health and well-being of our pets. It's no wonder, since our furry, feathered and fishy friends capture our hearts and quickly become members of the family.

Lumber-Jacks Workout Play Set

In the world of animal husbandry, enhancing your pet's environment with appropriate toys, hides, chews and exercise equipment is called enrichment. We call it common sense. The good news is, several new products on the market can serve double duty for your small mammals.

The brand new Lumber-Jacks line includes hideaways and climbers made of wood, so they also serve as safe chews for gnawing animals. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes to fit your cage or pet's personality.

One of many shapes and sizes of the new Lumber-Jacks Lodge

This weekend only, we are offering 25% off* on any small animal wood chew, hide or toy in the store for our social media friends. All you have to do is mention that you so us on the blog, Facebook or Twitter. No coupon required.

*Offer expires at closing (5:00 p.m.) Sunday, March 20. Good on white tag prices only.

Fish, Fish and More Fish

2011-03-11T20:38:00.000-06:00

This Friday, The Animal Store received a huge shipment of tropical fish. Every tank in the store (more than 100 of them) is teeming with fish of every size, shape and color. If you are a fish lover, a novice keeper or an experienced aquarium hobbyist, this is the weekend you've been waiting for.

30% off every fish

30% off

every kind of aquarium decor

(plants — plastic and living, ceramic ornaments,

backdrops, driftwood, decorations and more)

Hurry in, this sale* ends Sunday at our 5:00 p.m. closing.

*Offer good on white tag prices only; expires 3/13/11

Meet the Baby (Macaw)

2011-03-05T11:04:00.002-06:00

One of the things that sets our store apart is the amount of face time we give each animal. Young animals need to be socialized to make the best pets. This is especially true of parrots, which can live for decades and become an important part of a family.

This baby Blue and Gold Macaw was hatched August 10, 2010 and came into the store later that year. The macaw is now ready to find a permanent home and family. This beautiful, hand-fed, friendly baby has the potential to be a good talker. Blue and Golds are also very smart and able to learn all kinds of tricks.

A $2900 value for just $1900

Come into the store to meet our baby Blue and Gold. If you're ready to bring a new parrot home, now is the time. Kenn is making an incredible offer to our social networking friends: this beautiful Macaw is just $1900 and comes with a free parrot-proof cage worth $1000. But hurry, offer expires at 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 8.

-

Flame Von Rio (aka Orange Von Rio)

2011-03-01T11:41:00.000-06:00

We have a new fish in stock called the Flame Von Rio (scientific name Hyphessobrycon flammeus), also known as the Orange Von Rio. These tetras sport a beautiful red/orange that will add a flash of color to any fresh water aquarium. They do very well in groups of six or more, and are peaceful neighbors in a community tank. Males are more brightly colored than females, with larger fins. These fish appreciate some plants, as well as some open swimming space in their environment.

Come in a check out these colorful, freshwater beauties.

The Art of Reef Tanks

2011-02-04T17:56:00.000-06:00

Today on NPR's Science Friday, Ira Flatow and producer Flora Lichtman interviewed Joseph Yaiullo, co-founder of Atlantis Marine World in Riverhead, NY. Yaiullo has been keeping reef tanks since 1987; he shared some tips and tricks on the art of reef-tank keeping.

Reef tanks aren't for beginning fish hobbyists, as they can be time consuming and expensive, but as we hear on the podcast, they can also be addictive. Ira Flatow is a self-admitted "reef-geek", and Yaiullo said he coined the word "coralholic" years ago when he realized the depth of his addiction. You'll also get to hear how science and hobbyists are working together to learn more about the habitats and habits of coral reef systems and how to protect them.

If you've been thinking about becoming a reef-tank keeper, we have a one-of-a-kind offer to get one lucky hobbyist started. We have a floor model 29-gallon Biocube system and stand with live rock and coral ready to go out the door. The Biocube is a complete system that includes:

dual filter intakes to draw aquarium water from the surface and mid-water for improved water circulation and filtration.
replaceable 2-stage filter cartridge provides easy-to-maintain mechanical and chemical filtration.
bio-ball wet/dry filtration system improves gas exchange and provides efficient biological filtration.
UL-Listed submersible pumps.
comprehensive aquarium lighting system with Coralife compact fluorescent lighting, Lunar Blue-Moon-Glow LEDs, and dual cooling fans integrated into the hood.
individual power cords for timers to create custom light schedules.
curved glass front corner for a panoramic aquarium view.
attractive black wooden two-door stand.

This is an unbelievable deal — a $1,800 value for just $900. We have only one available, so if a reef tank is your dream, come and get it.

The video below, also courtesy of Science Friday, is of Justin Muir, founder of City Aquarium and "aquarists to the stars", takes us fancy fish shopping.

Nano Aquariums & the Fluval Chi

2011-02-01T00:40:00.000-06:00

chi — the life force the permeates the world

(according to Chinese tradition)

The hottest thing in aquaria today is the nano aquarium (2.5 - 35 gallons). Fluval has interpreted some of the smallest versions of the nano aquarium in its elegant chi kits. Available in two sizes (5 gallon and 6.6 gallon), these complete kits are easy to set-up and maintain and have tiny footprints, making them ideal for small spaces such as offices and apartments. Even my daughter's dorm* would allow the Fluval chi.

It's true that these smart little aquariums can bring beauty and energy into your space, with their sleek, edgeless design and minimalist aesthetic. They also offer a great introduction to the hobby, and come equipped with safe, low voltage LED lighting and a powerful filtration system. If you have been looking for an easy way to bring a pet into your life or to explore fish keeping, stop in soon to learn more about the Fluval chi or one of the many other shapes and sizes of aquariums we offer at The Animal Store.

Mention this post and get 10% off** your purchase of a Fluval chi.

[*Dorm pet policy: Pets are forbidden in residence halls with the exception of aquatic animals (e.g., fish, frogs, turtles) that can be safely and humanely contained in a tank/bowl of five gallons or less. Lights and filters are allowed and must fit within the parameters of the college's fire safety guidelines." Note: check the policy of your individual dorm/school.]

**Offer good on white tags only. Expires 2/15/11.

Da Bears, Our Big Sale & Other Cool Stuff

2011-01-22T20:34:00.008-06:00

Bears or Packers?

Da Bears!
Packers (aka, the other guys)

view results

The Animal Store is busy upgrading it's communication tools. For example, on January 22, we sent out our first e-newsletter. If you got it in your in box, great. Let us know what you think. If you aren't receiving it, then you are missing out on some really good deals. For example, subscribers learned about the:

Bears-Packers-Game-Day-Only Super Sale
Sunday, January 23

Plus. there's a special week-long savings coupon that's good from 1/24 - 1/31. What's that? You say you want in on the deal? We thought you might. All you have to do is subscribe below.

We're also getting pretty active on Facebook and Twitter, so connect with us there, too. Feel free to post pictures of your pets on our Facebook Page. Let us know if they are from The Animal Store. You can Like us or Follow us using the links in our sidebar.

These days, the only animals you hear much about are bears — the Chicago Bears, that is. That's all well and good. As Chicagoland's friendliest pet shop, we support all this great community has to offer. Are you a Packers fan? Don't worry. We won't tell. And if you're not a football fan at all, we're open all day game day until 5:00, so come on in and say hi. Because we have lots of other animals that we can talk about besides Da Bears.

Last Minute Gift Idea for Pet Lovers

2010-12-22T07:00:00.000-06:00

It's getting down to the wire and maybe your list is longer than you thought it was. Or maybe you've just been too busy to get everything done that you need to do for the holiday. We're here for you. The Animal Store will be open through Christmas Eve and has all kinds of last-minute gift ideas for the pet or pet lover on your list.

We've got toys for your dog, treats for your birds, and the perfect present for any pet. We can also help you surprise your family with that new pet they've been wanting. We'll help you choose something wrappable for under the tree. Then you can bring the family in after Christmas to choose just the right bunny or kitty, gerbil or guinea pig, reptile and fine feathered friend.

Still at a loss. We also have gift cards in any denomination. They make perfect stocking stuffers. Happy Holidays from all of us at The Animal Store.

Mention the last-minute holiday post and get 10% off your entire purchase* between now and Christmas.

*Offer expires December 26, 2010 and excludes gift cards.

USB Desktop Aquarium for Home or Office

2010-12-21T07:00:00.000-06:00

Those fishy screen savers just aren't as cool as the real thing. Now you can plug the new USB Desktop Aquarium right into your computer's USB port and have a mini-aquarium at work or in your home office.

This little conversation starter has a small footprint, but offers a big impact and is a fully functioning aquarium, complete with under-gravel filtration system, low voltage pump, gravel and plastic plant. In addition, it offers office functionality, with features including:

a pen holder
an adjustable overhead light
an LCD calendar with time, date, week and temperature
an alarm clock with a snooze feature and countdown timer

This little aquarium puts the fun in functional, and may just be the perfect gift for the workaholic on your list. Mention this post for an additional 15% off* your purchase of the USB Desktop Aquarium. Tell Kenn you read about it online and he'll let you pick out a free fish, too.

*Offer expires December 31, 2010. Free fish is from a selection of Kenn's choice.

New Take on a Family Favorite

2010-12-20T07:00:00.002-06:00

Remember the old-fashioned ant farms — a bunch of sand, sandwiched between two pieces of glass. Practically every family had one. Well, the 21st Century version of this classic learning toy is so futuristic, you'll barely recognize it.

The AntWorks Colors of Life ant habitat takes the traditional ant farm completely high tech. The multi-color LED shines continuous, full-spectrum light through the nutritious, non-toxic gel. You can set the lights to change continuously, or pick your favorite color with the flick of a switch. Your children will be fascinated watching the ants create intricate patterns as they tunnel through the gel. This is a great first pet experience and a good choice for families with allergies. It's a safe, fun gift for the little scientists in your life.

Mention the AntWorks blog post and get an additional 15% off* your purchase of a Colors of Life ant habitat between now and the end of the year.

*Offer expires December 31, 2010.

New Viquarium Can Create Family Harmony

2010-12-19T07:00:00.002-06:00

This is the Viquarium that we have set up in The Animal Store.
The flexible system can be inserted into most 20- to 55-gallon tanks.

If your family is anything like ours, getting the children to agree on anything can be a tricky. This one wants one thing, that one something else — a real challenge when it comes to choosing a pet. If your family is feeling like a house divided this holiday season, we may have just the answer for you.

Tetra's cool Cascading Viquarium® Kit can transform almost any 12" deep 20- to 55-gallon tank into a beautiful land and water environment. This means you can house amphibians and small fish in the same tank. Add plants and you've created a little piece of paradise. The 80-GPH submersible pump powers both the waterfall and the built-in 3-state Whisper® filtration system.

Stop by and talk to Kenn or another staff member about how you can set up a beautiful Viquarium® in your home in time for Christmas. Mention this blog post for an additional 10% discount* on your purchase of a complete Viquarium® setup.

*Offer expires December 31, 2010.

Cat Toys Go High Tech

2010-12-18T07:00:00.000-06:00

The hottest selling cat toy this holiday season is the high tech BOLT™ by FroliCat™. The BOLT is an interactive laser toy that is seriously addictive for both you and your cat. You can hold it yourself to play with your cat, or set it on a flat surface in automatic mode so your kitty can entertain himself. It even has a built in timer. (Rumor has it that dogs like it, too.) Check out the video. It's hysterical.

Mention that your read about FroliCat here on the blog and get 10% off* your purchase of a BOLT. You'll see the display right on the front counter.

*Offer expires December 26, 2010.

Pets and Careers: Is there a connection?

2010-12-17T00:12:00.000-06:00

You know you love your pet. You know your pet loves you. But did you know the kind of pet you own might be related to your career choice and even your income?

According to a new study by Career Builder, owners of certain pets are more likely to pursue certain careers. For example, reptile and snake owners tend to be social workers, marketing or PR people, editors or writers, police officers or engineers. Even more interestingly, the survey found that reptile owners are more likely to make salaries in the six figures.

Bird owners are the most likely to be satisfied in their career choice, and can often be found in administration, advertising, sales, or construction.

You dog owners are most likely to be top executives, and are often entertainers, nurses, professors, or in the military or IT.

Cat owners, on the other hand, are most most likely to be doctors or med techs, caretakers, realtors, or machine operators.

And what about aquarium hobbyists? You fish lovers tend to be in farming or forestry, fishing, transportation, human resources or finance.

These days, many people are looking for new jobs or career paths. Maybe what you really need is a new pet. Looking for success in sales? Come talk to us about a new cockatoo or a pair of lovebirds. Want to boost your income over the $100K mark? We've got just the corn snake or tegu for you. Trying to get into medical school? A new kitty may be just what you need. We also have everything you need for your fish tank or to care for your favorite pooch. Who knows? Maybe investing in your pet is actually an investment in your career. And you know they love you, no matter what you do.

To help you along your career path, just mention the pets and careers post and get 20% off* your next purchase at The Animal Store.

And check back on the blog for more holiday specials between now and Christmas.

*Offer good on white tags only; expires 12/31/10.

Photo credit: Mango HaX0ring by Slava / slava via Creative Commons License.

Cool New Video Features Rescue Dogs

2010-10-11T00:01:00.003-05:00

This is so much fun. It's the latest video from the band OK Go called "White Knuckles, which has become a YouTube sensation. Susan became an OK Go fan when she discovered that they wrote and performed the theme song for NPR's Fresh Air with Terry Gross (she's an NPR geek).

But this video is amazing. After weeks of choreography and dog training, they shot 128 takes over two weeks, but what you see is all of take number 72. That's right, it was done in one take, no editing, using mostly rescue dogs.

The band's lead singer, Damian Kulash explains that while the dogs were definitely trained, "We wanted the dogs just to do what they do best: running and jumping and sitting and, you know, eating." When you download the video from the OK Go Website, net proceeds go to support the ASPCA (the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), specifically to support rural, volunteer-run animal shelters in America.

The video premiered on the September 20 broadcast of the Ellen Degeneres Show and her Website also includes a some great footage of the behind the scenes making of the video.

We're often asked why we don't carry dogs or puppies at The Animal Store. The answer is simple. We believe that the best way to bring a new dog into your home is by adoption from a rescue shelter or through a reputable breeder. Once you have found the right one, we have everything you need here at The Animal Store to keep your family dog, happy, healthy, well fed and entertained. Mention the OK Go "White Knuckles" video and get 10% off any single item for your dog*.

*Offer good on white tags only; expires 10/31/10.

Free Fish — Today Only

2010-10-10T12:01:00.001-05:00

With more than 100 tanks of tropical fish, you're sure to find some you want,
like this Red Sevrum or Electric Blue Hap

We have every kind and size of aquarium in stock right now — from 6- to 100-gallon tanks, for the true beginner to the devoted hobbyist. And today only, we are giving away $25 to $100 in free fish with the purchase of any aquarium setup.

Aquariums are great for classrooms, families with allergies and families with small children. In fact, when Kenn's twins were babies, sitting them in their car seats in front of our home aquarium would always soothe them. The gently moving water, colorful fish and coral, and quiet hum of the filter was like a fishy lullaby whenever the babies were fussy.

Stop in today and get everything you need to get your new aquarium up and running, plus some free fish to get you started.

Huge Weekend Savings

2010-09-25T11:33:00.007-05:00

Saturday and Sunday only —

Just mention this post, and the savings are yours. Come on in, we can't wait to see you.

*Offer good on white tags only; valid Saturday and Sunday, September 25-26, 2010 only.

Siberian Chipmunks

2010-08-22T22:44:00.004-05:00

Meet the newest offering from The Animal Store: the Siberian Chipmunk. Isn't it cute? Though the Siberian Chipmunk (Tamias sibiricus) looks a lot like the common chipmunk (Tamias) found throughout North America, the Siberian Chipmunk is slightly smaller and more delicate.

The Siberian Chipmunk has also been bred in captivity for many years to be kept as pets. Unlike many other rodents, which tend to be nocturnal, Siberian Chipmunks are diurnal, or active during the day. This makes them lively and fun pets that won't keep you awake at night. In the wild, these animals forage and climb, so their cage will need burrowing material, and enough room and branches for climbing, as well as chew toys and an exercise wheel.

To learn more, come in and meet our newest pets. We'll be happy to answer any questions. The Animal Store staff spends a lot of time handling our young animals, which helps socialize them and make them friendlier pets.

It's important to note that in the City of Chicago and most of its suburbs, it is illegal to catch wild, undomesticated animals to keep as pets. Wild chipmunks do not make good pets and can carry a variety of dangerous diseases, including rabies. Don't be tempted to catch a chipmunk of your own. Our Siberian Chipmunks come from reputable breeders and have been bred as pets.

Photo credit: Siberian Chipmunk by William Warby via a Creative Commons License.

Warning: Fireflies Toxic to Some Animals

2010-07-06T21:32:00.001-05:00

Hope you all had a great 4th of July filled with lots of fireworks.

Summer night skies in our neck of the woods often glitter with another kind of light show — the dance of the fireflies (often called lightning bugs). Today we received some sad news that one of our customers lost his bearded dragon after it ate a lightning bug. This is the second such incidence we have heard of in the 18 years we've owned The Animal Store, so we did a little research.

It turns out that these beautiful members of the insect world belong to the genus Photinus, which contain chemicals called lucibufagins that are deadly to bearded dragons. There is also evidence that these chemicals can harm or kills other lizards, such as African chameleons. When a lizard eats a firefly, symptoms occur very quickly and death can occur within an hour.

Though we have not heard of any other pets dying because they have eaten fireflies, pet owners are warned to keep them away from all lizards, birds and amphibians — even dogs.

What can you do to keep your animal safe? Never feed a firefly to your pet. We all know what lightning bugs look like in the dark, but learn to recognize them when the aren't flashing (see the photo above). Keep an insect-proof cover and screens on your pet's cage — especially important if you take your lizard out in the summer. Be vigilant. Just one firefly can be deadly. If you see your pet eat a firefly, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Here are a few other reminders to help keep your pets safe during the summer months. Be sure they have plenty of fresh water, have shade available if you take them outside, and try to walk them in the cooler hours of the morning or evening. Perhaps most important, never leave an animal unattended in a car during the summer, where temperatures can reach deadly levels in just a few minutes. Be safe and have a great summer.

Photo credit: firefly 0877 by art farmer via a Creative Commons license.

Vote for Becky!

2010-06-16T12:44:00.008-05:00

In the 18 years I've owned The Animal Store, we have had some wonderful staff, but you'll forgive me when I say that my favorite is my daughter, Becky Bearman. She has been crazy about animals since she was a little girl. As a teen, she worked at the store and helped me launch the Traveling Animal Show.

After she graduated from high school, Becky went on to study marine biology at the University of Miami and got a masters degree in primate conservation from Oxford Brookes in England (proud dad here). She has worked directly with monkeys, apes, reptiles, small mammals, marine mammals, and now birds of prey, plus a bunch I don't remember (or probably don't want to know about). She has become a phenomenal teacher, even teaching her old man a thing or two along the way about positive reinforcement training, animal care, and the challenges humans face in our interactions with animals.

As a natural outgrowth of her love of animals, Becky became a strong defender of the environment. Her goal is to learn as much as she cans about animals and to enrich their lives in captivity, because she believes we have a lot to learn from them. By engaging and teaching the public, she hopes we will learn how to protect the animals' native habitats and the earth that is our home as well as theirs.

One of the things that makes me proudest is Becky's constant search for knowledge. Now, she is hoping to travel to Antarctica with one of her idols, Animal Ambassador Julie Scardina, to study Emperor penguins. This promises to be an incredible journey and I hope you will help her by voting for her. It's easy to do: click here, register your email address, confirm your registration and vote.

Thank you in advance for your support. I believe Becky has a lot to teach us all. Next time you stop in, let me know that you voted for her so I can thank you in person; or tell me in a comment by clicking here. Be sure to share on Twitter or Facebook or wherever your network takes you. Thanks again!

Shape Up

2010-05-14T16:58:00.001-05:00

Obesity in America is a significant problem, and not just for American people. Our pets are also getting fat. According to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, more than 45% of dogs and 58% of cats are overweight, and obesity is now the leading health threat for pets.

The risks associated with obesity in pets are identical to those faced by overweight people:

osteoarthritis
Type 2 diabetes
insulin resistance
respiratory disorders
high blood pressure
heart disease
cancer

But the good news is that if you have a pet, you have a built-in fitness buddy. Playing and exercising with your pets will lead to health benefits for both of you. Exercising with your pet on a regular basis can help you both lose weight, build tone, reduce stress, and strengthen your heart and bones.

All that healthy stuff is fine, of course, but the real benefit is: FUN. Now that the weather is finally getting better, you are officially out of excuses. So get out there with your pet and walk, job, run, swim, play catch or fetch or ball … but get moving. It will do you both good.

You can play and exercise with almost any kind of pet. Here are some excellent ideas for all kinds of animals, from dogs to birds to cats to exotics. You might want to keep a fitness journal for you and your pet so you can track your progress.

Dr. Jim Humphries of the Veterinary News Network reminds us that you should start slowly, be consistent and get a check up (for both you and your pet) before you begin a new exercise routine. He also advises that different pets benefit from different kinds of exercise.

We have a wide variety of toys and equipment to get you and your pet moving, like the Air Kong Fetch Stick. Mention the Shape Up blog post and get 25% off* any dog or cat toy, or pet leash. Good luck, and be sure to share your own tips and ideas on how you and your pet help each other stay fit.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through June 15, 2010.

Bring the Kids

2010-05-11T15:27:00.004-05:00

Kidwinks.com and WGN featured The Animal Store as a fun place to visit with the kids. This great video features lots of fun places in Chicago where kids eat free and go to free nearby activities. There are some great shots of The Animal Store at the end of the video and just a few of the many reasons why you and your kids should come for a visit soon.

Here's what the WGN.com story had to say about making a real family outing with kids-eat-free deal and a visit to The Animal Store:

"Outing Idea: Have dinner at the Al Primo Canto location on Devon in Edgebrook. If your children are animal lovers, take a 5 minute drive to The Animal Store. This store is a very special place to go for pets and supplies. There are always new arrivals of exotic animals, fish and birds, so there is always something new to see. The staff encourages you to come in and browse and even hold most animals. You'll find the expected mice, gerbils and guinea pigs, along with the more exotic ferrets, tarantulas, prairie dogs, chinchillas, hedgehogs and more."

Kidwinks.com is a great resource for finding places to go and things to do with the whole family. Check it out.

Listen Up

2010-05-05T09:00:00.023-05:00

We all have different reasons for owning a pet: companionship, unconditional love, helping children understand nature and our role in the natural world, and just plain fun. But do you use your pet as a sounding board?

The results of a recent poll conducted by the Associated Press and Petside.com seem to indicate that many people do. According to the poll, a full one third of married women believe their pets are better listeners than their husbands. More people polled felt that dogs were better listeners than cats.

The poll also indicated that most people think their pets are generally happy, with only a small percentage responding that they have ever sought help for signs of depression in their pets. Seems like animals can listen to our problems without being affected by them emotionally — or maybe they understand that they help us by listening and just being there.

If you want to return the favor and decipher what your pets are trying to tell you, check out this kid-friendly activity on Understanding Your Pet at HowStuffWorks.com.

What do you think? Is your pet your favorite confidant or surrogate therapist? Which pets make the best listeners? Has your pet ever betrayed a confidence? Talk to us by clicking here.

Enter to Win

2010-05-03T09:00:00.002-05:00

Are you in the neighborhood? Stop by Bank Financial Lincolnwood Branch to see our table top exhibit celebrating local businesses. While you're there, fill out a drawing slip for your chance to win a $25 gift card to The Animal Store and put the slip into the fishbowl. The display will only be exhibited for a few more days, so stop by soon.

Why support a small business like The Animal Store? The obvious reason is that we need you — you and your pets are the reason we exist. Our goal is provide you with excellent service; healthy, socialized animals; a complete array of pet supplies; and valuable information. Oh, yeah — and value. Check out our competitive prices; you won't be disappointed.

Turns out you need us, too. According to the U.S. Government, small businesses like The Animal Store are still the backbone of the American economy, comprising more than 99% of all employers and creating the bulk of new jobs. According to the 3/50 Project, for every $100 you spend in a local independent business, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll, and other expenditures. That's a pretty good return on your investment.

Thank you, as always, for your visiting and supporting The Animal Store. As a token of our appreciation, just mention the shop local blog post and get 10% off any single item* during the month of May.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through May 31, 2010.

Celebrate Animals this Week

2010-05-02T00:01:00.000-05:00

This week, May 2-8, 2010, is a big week for animals. We celebrate both National Pet Week and the American Humane Society's Be Kind to Animals Week, which has been observed annually since 1915. Both events commemorate the important role animals play in our lives and encourage people to treat animals with kindness and respect.

Here are some great ways to celebrate:

visit the zoo and learn something new about animals.
take a nature walk — around the neighborhood or at a forest preserve to see animals in their natural habitats.
make your backyard a sanctuary by adding a new birdbath, bird feeder or bird house, or maybe even a koi pond.
take your pet to the vet — make sure your animals are healthy and up to date on their vaccinations.
read some inspiring stories about the pet/human connection.
celebrate pets in the classroom with activities and lesson plans from the American Veterinary Medical Association.
become a volunteer for Chicago Animal Care and Control (must be 18), to reunite lost pets with their owners, screen potential adoptive families, or help with tours, education and office work.
get your groom on — check your pets beaks, claws, and fur or feathers for any necessary grooming that needs to be done. If you aren't sure how to do this grooming safely, take your pet to a professional. The Animal Store clips pet and bird nails, and trims flight feathers. Call us to make an appointment.
check your pet's collar to make sure it fits, that the buckle is intact, and that the tags are secure. Replace collars that are too small or worn.
let your pet know how much you care with a special treat or toy. The Animal Store carries everything you need to pamper and care for your cats, dogs, small animals, birds, reptiles and fish.

Let us help you celebrate the animal in your life. Just mention the Be Kind to Animals post and get 15% off* any treat or toy for your pet from May 2-8, 2010.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through May 8, 2010.

Happy May

2010-05-01T14:36:00.005-05:00

After a long hiatus, The Animal Store Blog is back. It's May, it's spring, the weather is getting better (even in Chicago) and we're all heading outside, right? Well, maybe not. There is new concern that our children may be suffering from Nature-Deficit Disorder.

In his book, Last Child in the Woods, author Richard Louv argues that in one generation, we have moved from long, lazy summers of hiking, swimming and camping, to summer months overbooked with structured indoor activities and marred by electronic addictions that are divorcing our children from the natural world around them. Louv believes that increased awareness of nature can have far-reaching benefits, including improved fitness levels, increased creativity and imagination stimulated by exploration, and a deeper understand of our place in nature's hierarchy.

Our pets have had a long winter stuck indoors, too. Help your whole family reconnect with nature by making a commitment to taking regular walks. Pay attention to the nature around you; you'll be amazed at what you might discover right in your own neighborhood.

To get you started, just mention this post for a 20% discount on the purchase of a new leash, harness or collar*. And before you start your regular outdoor activities, check your pet's tags to make sure they are secured to the collar and have up-to-date information.

Don't forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter @Theanimalstore.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through May 15, 2010.

Thanks for Your Support

2010-01-04T22:42:00.010-06:00

Happy New Year! We hope you all had a wonderful holiday. Congratulations to our first ever contest winners:

Amy of the Selfish Mom blog won the $100 gift card and Paul won one of our graphic logo t-shirts.

In the days of big box stores and national/international chains its easy to forget that small businesses still account for nearly half of the American economy. As a small, local business, we greatly appreciate your patronage. We offer personalized service, exceptional quality in our products, and a knowledgeable staff to answer your questions. We hand feed all our animals and have volunteers who are trained to socialize them to make good pets in your home.

Intuit is sponsoring their Love a Local Business contest to support local businesses across the country. To nominate The Animal Store for this award, click here or on the image at the top of this post. It just takes three simple steps:

1. Enter The Animal Store and our zip code (60712)

2. Choose our name from the list

3. Leave a sentence or two about why The Animal Store is your favorite local business.

That's it. Next time you come in, tell us that you voted for us and get 10% off any single item*. Thanks for your vote.

We welcome your suggestions as to how we can serve you better. Feel free to email us or leave a comment on this blog.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through February 28, 2010.

This is Big!

2009-12-18T23:12:00.012-06:00

Just in time for Christmas, The Animal Store is running its first-ever online contest. As some of you may know, The Animal Store was named after the wonderful poem of the same name written by Rachel Fields (read the whole poem here). The first stanza of the poem goes like this:

If I had $100 to spend,

Or maybe a little more

I'd hurry as fast as my legs would go

Straight to the Animal Store.

Now, you can win $100 to spend at The Animal Store. On Tuesday, December 22, one winner will be chosen at random to receive a $100 gift card to The Animal Store. All you need to do to win is to leave a comment on this post telling us the name of your favorite pet — past or present — and, if you'd like, what that pet means to you. Click here to enter.

For a second entry, you can Twitter about this contest (please leave a separate comment below linking to your tweet). That's a maximum of two entries per person (one comment; one comment about your tweet). Be sure to leave your email address so we can contact you if you win.

Our store is located in Lincolnwood, just north of Chicago. Out-of-town readers are welcome to enter and are eligible to win; we will be happy to ship anything you purchase with the $100 gift card, but please remember that applicable shipping charges apply and may not be charged to the gift card. Family members and staff should refrain from entering this contest and give someone else a chance to win.

One runner-up will be chosen to win one of our cool new t-shirts featuring an edgy version of our logo. Enter today — you can spend your $100 at The Animal Store buying a pet for a gift, or gifts for your favorite pet.

Good luck. And remember, gift cards are a great way to give

a pet for Christmas — and they are much easier to wrap!

Here's the Deal

2009-12-06T14:35:00.004-06:00

Well, here's where you can get a lot of deals. Each day, between now and December 25, you can find daily, one-of-a-kind, super holiday deals here at The Animal Store. We'll be posting them on Facebook and Twitter, so be sure to become a fan of The Animal Store Facebook Page and to follow us on Twitter @theanimalstore.

Super deals — every day. Happy Holidays from The Animal Store.

Forget the Zhu Zhu Pet

2009-12-02T15:33:00.013-06:00

The hottest toy this year may be the Zhu Zhu pet hamster, but it doesn't hold a candle to the real thing. John Kass recently wrote in his Chicago Tribune column that "Evil fake hamsters don't deserve a place under the tree". Children will "learn nothing about life from a fake hamster," said Kass. "A fake hamster can't love. Their cuddles are cold and empty."

According the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, children raised with pets show many benefits:

"A child who learns to care for an animal, and treat it kindly and patiently, may get invaluable training in learning to treat people the same way."
"Taking care of a pet can help children develop social skills."
"Developing positive feelings about pets can contribute to a child's self-esteem and self-confidence."
"Positive relationships with pets can aid in the development of trusting relationships with others."
"A good relationship with a pet can also help in developing non-verbal communication, compassion and empathy."

These are just a few of the benefits that owning a real pet can provide to children. Hamsters are, in fact, good first pets and our staff can help you learn everything you need to know about buying and owning a real, live hamster for your family.

Avoid the crowds — unlike the mobs clambering for Zhu Zhus, we have hamsters available and in stock for the holidays here at The Animal Store, with a knowledgeable, friendly staff that can answer all your questions. Family fun with your own pet hamster will continue long after the Zhu Zhu has been forgotten in the box.

The Zhu Zhu Pet Hamster House House Starter Set with Mr. Patches toy hamster retails for $84.99. The Animal Store Hamster Starter set includes:

CritterTrail Starter Habitat with quiet exercise wheel, water bottle and food dish, with expandability ports to add on accessories
food
bedding
hamster treats
and a REAL live young hamster — that you get to name yourself!

Everything you need for family fun all for just $50.

Come in and ask what pet is right for you and your family. And leave a comment here about how caring for a real life pet changed your life.

2-Day 25% Off Thank You Sale

2009-11-09T13:38:00.013-06:00

Things have been a little quiet here on The Animal Store Blog, but that's because we have been busy planning for our biggest sale event of the year. This weekend, Saturday & Sunday, November 14 & 15 only, we will be celebrating a 25% off storewide sale*.

Our shelves are stocked to the brim with the latest and best products offered at this fall's annual pet industry trade show. We have great new products you've never even seen before.

Don't miss this 2-day only opportunity. We're giving away hundreds of dollars worth of raffle prizes, including an Oceanic 8-gallon Biocube aquarium valued at more than $350. Enter our raffle drawing and you could also win a

Zilla Aquatic Turtle Kit (valued at more than $300) or a fabulous bird playground (valued at more than $200). All you have to do is stop by to enter to win one of these great raffle prizes, or other free gifts all weekend long.

There's more: a local veterinarian will be on hand to answer your most pressing pet questions. Our favorite face painter, Debbie, will be offering FREE glitter tattoos, so bring the kids for some family-friendly fun. Come in and play with our bunnies, meet our sulcata tortoises and talk to our parrots, who may even talk back.

Our store-wide sale guarantees you a whopping 25% off everything in the store*, PLUS we'll be offering even bigger discounts on many items — just look for the special Thank You Sale tags. This is the one you have been waiting for. We are now stocked with a huge collection of reptiles, not to mention our hand-fed baby birds, pocket pets, outstanding assortment of aquarium fish and everything you need to keep your pets happy and healthy.

This sale is our chance to thank you for being one of The Animal Store's valued customers. Join the festivities on Saturday or Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. And don't forget to tell Kenn you read about it on The Animal Store Blog.

*Discounts taken off white tags only and valid only November 14 & 15, 2009.

The Animal Store Takes the Pledge

2009-09-25T11:14:00.012-05:00

I just signed and returned the Puppy Friendly Pet Store Pledge initiated by The Human Society of the United States (HSUS). In an effort to help shut down and eliminate puppy mills, by signing the pledge, The Animal Store certifies that we do not sell puppies, and we further pledge not to begin the practice of selling puppies.

September 19, 2009 was Puppy Mill Awareness Day, but efforts to stop cruelty against animals are ongoing. It is estimated that 4 million dogs are bred in puppy mills every year. Take a moment to learn more about the issue, and let us know if you have any questions.

We love dogs and our dog-owner customers, and support the special bond between canines and their humans in any way we can. Visit The Animal Store for dog food, toys, treats and supplies. We hope you'll visit your local shelter to adopt your next dog or puppy.

Now Serving Royal Canin

2009-09-22T09:55:00.013-05:00

The Animal Store now exclusively offers Royal Canin dog and cat food. Why Royal Canin? Though still emerging in the American pet market, Royal Canin has been known worldwide for more than 40 years. Their formulations are based on the latest, most in-depth scientific research on pet nutrition and how animals eat. Other pet foods that advertise research-based formulas are, in fact, often using the research conducted at Royal Canin's labs.

Royal Canin offers breed-specific formulas for both cats and dogs. For dogs, Royal Canin also offers general size-based formulas for mini toy (up to 6 lbs.), mini (7-20 lbs.), medium (21-55 lbs.), maxi (56-100 lbs.) and giant (100+ lbs) breeds. Cat foods are divided between indoor and outdoor formulas. Royal Canin does ongoing, in-depth, animal-safe scientific research on each breeds nutritional requirements, as well as how each breed eats. This has resulted in what they call "Kibble Technology". They have found that developing uniquely-shaped kibbles for each breed can prevent gulping, minimize gas and stool output, and prevent obesity by encouraging the animal to eat more slowly. Here's just one example:

English Bulldogs are notoriously gassy animals. Royal Canin Bulldog 24 has "S" shaped kibbles that accommodate the Bulldog's unusual square jaw. They are easier for the dog to grasp and chew, limiting excess air intake and minimizing flatulence (gas). The specific formulation of highly digestible proteins, starches and balanced fibers also promotes proper digestion in the breed and helps get rid of that annoying gas.

As a little personal testimonial, we recently switched our very picky Soft-coated Wheaton, Hazel, to Royal Canin. She used to turn up her nose at her food, often skipping a day. Now she eats her dinner when we feed her, helping us regulate and monitor her intake, and virtually eliminating the number of "accidents" she has in the house. We know she is getting the nutrition she needs and it makes our life easier, as well.

Royal Canin also offers specific foods for each stage of life for both cats and dogs, from very early kitten- or puppyhood, through healthy adult life and into maturity. There are even speciality formulas for obesity and other health issues, show animals, and very young or very active pets.

Our tiny kitten, Pirate, also benefitted from a switch to Royal Canin's Baby Cat formula. Weaned too early, Pirate was small and not growing well. Now he's healthy and has graduated to Kitten 36, the right food for his muscle and bone development until he reaches his first birthday.

We have chosen Royal Canin because we are committed to helping you keep your pets as healthy and happy members of your family for many years. We have learned a lot about dog and cat nutrition and would be happy to answer any questions you have about which formula is best for your pet. Please email us or click here to leave a comment. And stop by today for a free sample.

Just for fun, you may want to visit the Royal Canin Website, where you can find a wealth of information about specific breeds of dogs and cats.

Dogs Helping People — Still in the News

2009-08-19T13:51:00.007-05:00

Even though National Assistance Dog Week officially ended on August 15, we are still finding plenty of reasons to celebrate our extraordinary connection with our canine friends. The Trib Local for Park Ridge, IL, recently ran a story about an incredible group of dogs who are helping patients undergoing cancer treatment.

The story focused on three dogs — Jersey, Sam and Chiquita — who, as part of Chicago-based Canine Therapy Corps, visit with patients before their cancer treatments, which seems to have a calming effect on the patients, offering them a little joy in difficult circumstances.

Canine Therapy dogs are trained to help in both treatment and rehabilitation processes. According to their Website, Animal-assisted therapy "is designed to promote improvement in physical, emotional and cognitive functions." The program is different than organizations that train and provide service or facility dogs, focusing instead on the unique role that animal-human bonds can play in healing. Their mission is to provide programs that "motivate participants to continue to work toward their goals of improved physical and mental health, emotional growth and personal dignity … We don't just make people feel better, we help them get better."

Specially trained animals are also being used as part of the palliative care offered by hospice programs. "Studies have shown that animal-assisted therapy can help patients relax and relieve muscle tension," said the Penelope Gabriele, a bereavement and program development coordinator for Advocate Hospice. Petting an animal can help lower blood pressure, decrease anxiety and reduce depression, as well as distracting patients from pain. You can read more about these "Healing Paws" here.

The Delta Society is another program that trains animals — all kinds of animals — to provide companionship and comfort to people confronting end of life issues, helping patients recovering from serious addictions or chronic illnesses, and even bringing a little normalcy and joy to women and children in battered women's shelters.

Studies have shown that interacting with pets on a regular basis can improve the quality of life for seniors and even prolong it. I'm not a doctor or a therapist, but I have seen many of the benefits of human-animal relationships first hand. My staff members, volunteers and I have taken many Animal Store animals to visit area senior citizen centers, nursing homes, and residences for people with profound mental and physical disabilities. The connection is often immediate and incredible to behold.

In honor of our loving and dedicated pets, we are extending the discount we offered during National Assistance Dog Week through the end of August. Just mention this post for 25% off any dog treats, toys or supplies*.

If you are thinking about getting a companion animal for someone you know, ask them first, and then ask us about which animals would be best suited to the situation and environment. As always, we'd love to hear from you — just click here to leave a comment or share your story.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through August 31, 2009.

Celebrating Man's Best Friend

2009-08-08T14:20:00.009-05:00

Everyone knows that dogs are man's best friends, right? That famous adage actually comes from an 1870 court case, Burden vs. Hornsby, where one brother-in-law sued another for shooting his favorite hound dog, Old Drum, and was awarded $50 in damages.

But the mysterious bond between man and dog dates back much further than that — about 15,000 years, in fact. It appears that all current breeds of our contemporary canine companions can trace their roots back to a common ancestor, probably from Asia. Man and dog have been inseparable ever since.

In addition to unconditional love and constant companionship, dogs and man have had strong working relationships throughout history. Dogs have helped herd everything from cattle to sheep — even poultry. They have been bred and trained to help hunt by tracking, flushing and retrieving.

Dogs have been used by law enforcement to patrol, police and guard, as well as to sniff out all kinds of contraband, from illegal drugs to bomb materials. They often play a big role on search and rescue teams, tracking and trailing, and searching for missing persons, evidence and cadavers. Dogs have also been trained to pull sleds and wagons, helping humans transport themselves and all manner of goods over huge distances and difficult terrain.

Perhaps the most intimate working relationship is between humans and service dogs. This week, August 9-15, is National Assistance Dog Week, which honors the devotion and hard work that these remarkable dogs provide to humans with disabilities. The range of disabilities and conditions for which dogs provide assistance is astounding:

Guide dogs help people with vision loss cross the street, avoid obstacles, and navigate the physical world.
Hearing alert dogs help people with hearing loss. They can be trained to identify a ringing phone or doorbell, a crying baby, sirens or alarms, and the sound of other people.
Medical/Seizure alert and response dogs are specifically trained to recognize the signs and respond to a wide variety of medical conditions, including seizures, heart attack, epilepsy, stroke, diabetes, panic and anxiety attacks, and post-traumatic stress symptoms. Many new service dogs are being trained to assist our returning veterans who have suffered injury as a result of their service. In an innovative program called Puppies Behind Bars, prison inmates train service dogs who are later assigned to an injured veteran. (In the movie My Sister's Keeper [in theaters now], the Alec Baldwin character has epilepsy and is warned by his medical service dog when he is about to have a seizure.)
Service dogs help people who struggle with balance issues, dressing, retrieving or carrying things, opening drawers or doors, and pushing buttons. They can even help with chores such as laundry, by putting clothes into and taking them out of the washer and dryer.

It seems there is almost no limit to what a dog can be trained to do. In honor of National Assistance Dog Week, The Animal Store would like to celebrate our long, loving and fruitful relationships with our canine friends. Just mention this blog post and receive 25% off any dog treats, toys or supplies*.

Do you have a remarkable story of how a dog has served you, your family or a friend? Click here to share your story in a comment.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through August 15, 2009.

Photo credit: Service Dog by betta5.

Pygmy Hedgehogs

2009-08-03T15:30:00.006-05:00

Pygmy hedgehogs may seem a little prickly on the outside, but some people who are allergic to cats or dogs find that they are not allergic to hedgehogs.

Most people are surprised to learn that hedgehogs are not related to porcupines at all; they are more closely related to shrews and moles. Despite their spiny top coats, hedgehogs have a soft underside and make pleasant pets, particularly for small environments, like apartments.

Most hedgehogs can be litter trained and they have little, if any, odor. As a well-cared-for pet, you can expect a hedgehog to live between four and seven years. For more information on owning a hedgehog as a pet, visit our Website or email us.

If you have a pet hedgehog and would like to share your photos, please feel free to upload them to our Facebook page. Be sure to let us know your pet's name and whether you got him or her at The Animal Store.

Mention this post on hedgehogs and receive 25% off your entire purchase* of a hedgehog and/or hedgehog supplies, food, treats or equipment.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through August 21, 2009.

The Animal Store on Facebook

2009-07-22T12:30:00.006-05:00

The Animal Store

Promote Your Page Too

The Animal Store is now on Facebook. Stop by and become a fan and get special deals delivered right to your wall.

We'd love you to add photos of you and your pet (especially pets from The Animal Store) to our Facebook Page wall. Be sure to include your name and the name of your pet. Tell us your pet's story.

Let us know what you'd like to see here on The Animal Store Blog, on our Facebook Page or on Twitter. We want to make it easy and fun for you to continue to be a fan of The Animal Store. Just mention this post or that you have become a Facebook fan and get 20% off your next purchase* at The Animal Store. But hurry, this offer expires at the end of the month.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through July 31, 2009.

The Simply Irresistible Chinchilla

2009-07-15T00:00:00.006-05:00

Seriously cute and unbelievably soft, chinchillas look something like a bunny crossed with a mouse, with a squirrel-like tail thrown in just for fun.

Chinchillas are typically gray, white or black and grow to be about 12 inches long (not including their 3-6 inch tail). Chinchillas do best in pairs and can live for 15-20 years, sometimes even longer.

If you are interested in finding out more about chinchillas as pets, visit our Webpage, email us or just stop into the store. Right now, we are having a great sale on our chinchillas. And just for you, our loyal blog readers, if you mention the chinchilla post you will receive an additional 10% discount on your entire purchase*.

Come on in and visit our chinchillas today. They're simply irresistible.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through July 31, 2009.

Photo credit: "Joey" by mistress moo on deviantart.com

Transform Yourself & Get 30% Off

2009-07-08T17:14:00.011-05:00

Now that the 4th is over, don't let your summer fun fade away. We've got big doings coming up this weekend at The Animal Store. Saturday and Sunday only, July 11 & 12, you can turn into your favorite animal — with the help of a little face paint or a glitter tattoo.

Debbie, a fabulous face painter and glitter tattoo artist, will be on hand at the store from noon to 4 p.m. to transform you into the creature of your desires.

Face Painting
Saturday & Sunday only
July 11 & 12, noon - 4

Even better, when you purchase your face painting or glitter tattoo, you'll get a coupon for 25% off anything* at The Animal Store. Plus, there will be lots of in-store specials. AND, just for your, our faithful blog readers, just mention the face painting post and get an additional 5% off anything* in the store, for a whopping 30% discount.

So stop by on Saturday or Sunday for a little family fun and some great bargains. Click here if you have any questions or comments.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through July 31, 2009.

Traveling Animal Show

2009-06-28T16:24:00.012-05:00

Are you having a block party?
A church or school event? I can bring the Traveling Animal Show to you for your next party or promotion. These are just a few photos from the fifth grade farewell party at my son's school. The kids and the adults loved learning about and interacting with the animals.

My program is completely customizable depending on your needs. The animals I bring are from The Animal Store, some are permanent residents, some are for sale — all have been handled frequently by me and my staff. For more information, email me or call 847-675-5133. Ask for Kenn.

Meet Pirate

2009-06-22T12:26:00.008-05:00

People ask us all the time if our house is filled with pets. My wife always says we own hundreds of pets and the kids can come visit them here at The Animal Store any time they want, but she's not as tough as she sounds.

Over the years, we have had many animals in our home. Most of them have been short-term visitors — baby birds that need to be fed around the clock, an ailing animal or two that needs frequent medication, or some young animals that need to be handled and played with to be socialized properly.

We've had turtles, a Pacific Parrotlet named Pipsqueak, a cockatiel named Rosie, and a 115-gallon salt-water aquarium. When it was time for a family dog, our research about allergies and animals led us to choose a soft-coated Wheaton Terrier. Some of you knew our first Wheaton, named Roscoe, who passed away a couple of years ago. If you've visited the store lately, you have probably met Hazel, our new Wheaton.

At 18 months, Hazel has settled nicely into the family. Just when she was getting comfortable, I brought home our latest addition — the cute little guy you see here. We've decided to name him Pirate, in part because he is blind in one eye. Hazel is still not quite sure about him, but is having a good time checking him out and trying to steal his food.

In honor of Pirate, the new addition to both the Bearman family and The Animal Store family, we are offering a 30% discount on any cat toy, treat or accessory. Just mention the Pirate blog post.

And don't forget to follow us on Twitter for additional discounts: www.Twitter.com/theanimalstore. Our most recent Twitter posts can now be seen on this blog's sidebar.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through July 4, 2009.

Follow The Animal Store on Twitter

2009-06-15T18:51:00.002-05:00

Do you twitter? Follow me and get even more Animal Store bargains. I'm new to twittering, so bug me now and I'll make sure my tweets are full of crazy discounts in 140 characters or less.

http://twitter.com/Theanimalstore

@Theanimalstore

Looking forward to your tweets!

Enhance Your Yard with a Koi Pond

2009-05-20T00:01:00.001-05:00

Could it be that spring is finally here? It's been a long time coming and our thoughts are turning outdoors to our gardens and yards. A koi pond can be a beautiful addition to backyard landscaping, providing a water feature, focal point and symbol of serenity. For avid gardeners, adding a koi pond can bring a whole new dimension to their hobby. For fish hobbyists, koi ponds can extend your hobby into the outdoor world.

Koi are ornamental fish often confused with goldfish, and both are descendant from different families of carp. Koi have been bred and kept as pets for thousands of years, and the earliest written references to these hardy beauties are from China dating back to the third and fourth centuries. Today there are more than 100 different types of koi.

The Animal Store can help get you started on creating your own koi pond, as well as stock and supply your existing pond. Email us for more information, or leave a comment here. Mention the koi pond blog post and get 20% off any single item for your pond.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through June 15, 2009.

Summer Travel with Pets

2009-05-12T14:35:00.008-05:00

Believe it or not, there are only 13 days until Memorial Day — the start of the summer travel season. In this economy, some families may be scaling back on their travel plans — taking shorter vacations, staying closer to home, driving instead of flying.

Whatever your travel plans may be, you need to make plans for your pet before you go. Here at The Animal Store, we have a variety of ways to help.

Did you know that we can board a variety of animals right here at the store — including birds, small animals and reptiles? Whether you'll be gone for a few days or a few weeks, we'll take care of your pet while you're gone. Click here to email us for more information or boarding rates.

For those who prefer to take their pets along, we have carriers of all sizes to make traveling easier and more comfortable for you and your pet. The Animal Store wants to help make traveling with your pet more financially comfortable, too, so just mention the Summer Travel post and get a whopping 30% off any pet carrier*.

We've also added a handy little widget to our blog's left-hand sidebar that will help you identify pet-friendly hotels along your travel route. Bookmark our site so you can access the widget anytime you travel with your pet.

Don't forget to add a trip to The Animal Store to your summer itinerary. Hope to see you soon.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through June 5, 2009.

HR 669 Update

2009-04-27T16:25:00.011-05:00

A Congressional hearing on HR 669, the Nonnative Wildlife Prevention Act, took place on April 23.

As it turns out, not much came out of the hearing except agreement from nearly all involved that the Bill needs a lot of work before it could ever become law. Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle received thousands of phone calls, letters and emails from their constituents urging them to defeat the Bill as it stands. Thank you from all of us at The Animal Store to all of you who took the time to contact your representatives.

We'll keep you posted if anything changes.

Say No to HR 669

2009-04-13T14:19:00.010-05:00

URGENT MESSAGE TO ALL PET OWNERS

Please join The Animal Store in opposing H.R. 669, the Nonnative Wildlife Invasion Prevention Act. If this Bill passes, pet ownership in this country will never be the same. It will affect all owners of pet birds, reptiles, fish and many small animals that are not native to this country. This means even such common pets as guinea pigs, parakeets and beta fish. The legislation is so far reaching that if you were to move to another state, it would be illegal for you to bring your pet with you across state lines if it is one of the named breeds.

There is no evidence that suggests that this Bill will have any positive effect on human health or animal health, the environment or the economy.

The Animal Store, like many in the pet industry, support legislative solutions that specifically target species which may actually be invasive, rather than this blanket condemnation of all nonnative species, including thousands that have been in this country for decades with no adverse impact.

For more information, please visit www.nohr669.com to see what you can do today to prevent this Bill from passing as it stands now. Thank you.

If you have a comment or question, please email us or click here.

The Gorilla Joke

2009-04-08T00:01:00.008-05:00

Why do gorillas have big nostrils?

Because they have big fingers.

Here at The Animal Store, we don't monkey around. If we don't have it in stock, we'll order it for you.

Click here to leave a comment, ask a question or tell us your favorite animal joke. We also welcome your emails. And just for fun, mention the Gorilla Joke blog post and get gorilla-sized savings — 30% off any single item.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through April 24, 2009.

World Rat Day

2009-04-04T00:01:00.005-05:00

Rats often get a bad rap, but what's not to love about a face like Whisper's in this photo. Today, April 4, is World Rat Day, a holiday that was "designed to recognize the fancy rat as a wonderful companion animal for people of all ages.

Rat fanciers know that fancy rats are intelligent, clean and curious animals that bond with their humans and become devoted pets. Male rats are known as bucks and females are called does; baby rats are known alternately as either pups or kittens.

Small enough to be considered a pocket pet, a pet rat can provide the same kind of intimate companionship as a cat or a dog. Rats are social creatures that need regular human interaction and often fare better with a companion rat. Same sex pairs do well together, unless you are prepared for the responsibilities of breeding. On average, rats live 2-3 years.

If you are interested in learning more about rats as pets, please visit the rat page on The Animal Store Website, or email us. Click here to leave a comment or tell us how you plan to celebrate World Rat Day. Our gift to you is 25% off rat supplies and treats. Just mention the World Rat Day blog post.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through April 19, 2009.

Image: Ivy with Whisper the Rat by Richard Masoner.

National Ferret Day

2009-04-02T00:00:00.004-05:00

Here at The Animal Store we are busy celebrating National Ferret Day today.

Did you know that ferrets:

have been domesticated for thousands of years?
do not exist in the wild?
make wonderful pets?
live about 8 to 10 years?
weigh between 2 and 5 pounds when full grown?
can be litter trained?

Full of fun, ferrets make playful companions. For more information on keeping ferrets as pets, visit the ferret page on The Animal Store Website, or email us. And to help you celebrate National Ferret Day, we are offering 25% off all ferret supplies. Just mention the National Ferret Day blog post.

Leave a comment or tell us about your favorite ferret by clicking here.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through April 17, 2009.

International Pooper-Scooper Week

2009-03-31T00:25:00.009-05:00

I'm sure you are as excited as we are here at The Animal Store to learn that tomorrow is the first day of International Pooper-Scooper Week (April 1-7). No, this is not an April fool's joke. According to The American Pet Association, Americans own more than 71 million dogs as pets and those animals produce more than 4.4 billion (that's "billion" with a "B") pounds of waste per year.

More than just a messy nuisance, uncollected pet waste can lead to public health issues, primarily through parasites and pathogens found in the dogs' stools (including roundworms, tapeworms, Salmonella, and Giardia, among others).

The Animal Store wants to help you be a responsible pet owner and good citizen. In honor of International Pooper-Scooper Week, we are offering a 15% discount on all products related to pet waste. No coupon necessary — just mention this blog post. If you have questions or comments, email us or leave a comment here.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through April 14, 2009.

Photo credit: poop and scoop sign by Jeremy Burgin via flickr.com.

Get the Pet Club Advantage

2009-03-25T15:56:00.007-05:00

In these tough economic times, you need every advantage you can get. The key to great savings at The Animal Store is to join the Pet Club. With this little tag on your key ring, every time you come into the store you are entitled to:

10% discounts on merchandise
10% discounts on fish and live plants
extra savings on high use items
extended warranties
special "Pet Club" promotions
low price guarantee

Next time you come into the store, ask how you can get the Pet Club advantage. Or click here to ask for the key to Pet Club savings.

Dragons Really Do Exist

2009-01-15T00:01:00.010-06:00

Tomorrow, January 16, is Appreciate a Dragon Day. Some people think dragons can only be found in myths and fairy tales and Harry Potter books, but in fact you can find real dragons right here at The Animal Store.

One of our favorite reptiles is the bearded dragon (pogona vitticeps). These Australian natives can grow to two feet in length and generally live between 4-10 years. They make excellent pets, especially for families with allergies or young children. Despite the scary name, they are quite gentle when handled frequently as juveniles.

Bearded dragons are usually housed in large glass tanks equipped with heat lamps and UVA/UVB spectrum bulbs. Adult bearded dragons eat fresh vegetables and adult bearded dragon food, supplemented with an occasional live cricket.

Celebrate Appreciate a Dragon day by visiting our bearded dragon page on The Animal Store Website, or stop in the store and visit one in person. We carry everything you need to keep your bearded dragon healthy and happy, and our knowledgeable staff will be happy to answer any dragon-related questions. Just mention the dragon post and get 15% off any bearded dragon product.*

Here at The Animal Store, we love to hear from you, so just click here to leave a comment or email us.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through January 23, 2009.

Stumble It!

Photo credit: Bearded Dragon by Michael Sult

Dress Up Your Pet Day

2009-01-11T00:01:00.007-06:00

Does Halloween come early for pets? It depends on how you interpret National Dress Up Your Pet Day, celebrated on January 14. The history of this holiday is a little murky. Does it mean dress your pets up in costume? This seems unlikely, since Halloween is a long way off, but if you and your pet like to play pretend, then go for it.

Does it mean add a little bling to your favorite pet's daily wardrobe? This could be. Perhaps it's time for a snazzy new collar to brighten up those winter days.

Given the January date of this holiday, it seems most likely that National Dress Up Your Pet Day refers to providing a little extra warmth for your pets when you take them out for a walk — especially on those days when the temperature dips below freezing. While veterinarians recommend against sweaters for dogs who have long hair or are accustomed to cold winter temperatures, sweaters may make sense for smaller dogs, short-haired dogs, puppies and older dogs, or dogs recuperating from illness or surgery. You may also want to protect your pets paws from ice with booties.

However you decide to celebrate National Dress Up Your Pet Day, be sure to celebrate it with The Animal Store. Just mention the dress-up post and get 25% off any dog toys, chews or retractable leashes.*

Let us know how you celebrated National Dress Up Your Pet Day by clicking here, or email us your photos.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through January 21, 2009.

Stumble It!

Photo credit: Coco in her jean and sweater by Winnie Lee

Animals and the Arts

2009-01-04T12:51:00.016-06:00

Frida Kahlo. Self-portrait with Monkey (detail), 1940 »»

Beyond the infamous C.M. Coolidge paintings of Dogs Playing Poker, artists have celebrated human relationships with animals since cavemen first started painting on walls. The Art Institute of Chicago is now hosting to two exhibits of animals in art.

The first, The Beauty of the Beasts: Artists and Their Pets in 20th-Century Art, begins January 7 and runs through March 16 in the Ryerson and Burnham Libraries. The exhibit highlights several books from the collection that feature artists and the animals that have inspired them. For more information, go to http://www.artic.edu/aid/exhibitions/exhibition/beauty.

The second is an ongoing exhibit in Gallery 55 called Neither Man Nor Beast: Animal Images on Ancient Coins, which explores how animals pervade the imagery found on the gold, silver, and bronze coinage of ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt. For more information, go to http://www.artic.edu/aic/exhibitions/exhibition/beast.

Here at The Animal Store, we recognize that pets inspire us in many ways. Whether your pet provides a muse for your own art, or is simply providing the inspiration to keep your New Year's resolutions by taking regular walks, we would love to hear about it. Just click here to tell us how your pets inspire you. Mention this Animals in the Arts post the next time you come into the store and get 15% off any treat* for your favorite animal muse.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through January 11, 2009.

Stumble It!

New Year's Resolutions

2009-01-02T19:30:00.009-06:00

Happy New Year! We at The Animal Store Hope you and your family had a wonderful holiday season and we look forward to seeing you soon.

According to the Centers for Disease control, owning a pet can help you keep some of those New Year's resolutions, especially the ones about exercise. For example, taking your dog for a 30-minute walk every day will provide health benefits for both of you. According to the Mayo Clinic, a 30-minute walk every day will help you:

Reduce health risks such as obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, stroke, certain cancers and osteoporosis.
Manage chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure and chronic muscle pain.
Keep off excess weight.
Ward off viral illnesses by boosting your immune system.
Keep your arteries clear, helping to increase "good" cholesterol and decrease "bad" cholesterol.
Strengthen your heart.
Improve your mood by reducing tension and promoting relaxation.
Increase your stamina.

Your dog will benefit from daily walks as well, getting:

positive attention from you.
mental stimulation by experiencing new sights and smells along the way.
the opportunity to develop bathroom habits.
an outlet for excess energy that can improve bad behavior resulting from boredom.
the exercise necessary to lead a long, healthy life — just like humans.
opportunities for socialization by meeting up with other humans and animals.

Regular walks with your dog will also give you both ample opportunities for bonding and practicing your training regime.

This year, we resolve to do everything we can to help you and your pets lead happy, healthy lives. Just mention this New Year's blog post the next time you come into The Animal Store and get 15% off a new leash or harness* for your pet.

We hope you will resolve to visit us often and let us know what you think by clicking here.

Stumble It!

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through January 31, 2009.

Photo credit: New Year by Billy Alexander.

Meet Megan and Bam-Bam

2008-12-17T01:01:00.009-06:00

One of the most rewarding aspects of owning a pet store is connecting people with their first pets. First-time pet owners are excited, enthusiastic, willing to learn and just a little bit nervous. We like new pet owners to take their time, learn everything they can and get comfortable with a new pet before it goes home.

Not long ago, Megan came from Lake Forest to The Animal Store in Lincolnwood to get her very first pet, a cockatiel she named Bam-Bam. In fact, she and her mom, Jenny, visited the store several times and did a lot of research before choosing Bam-Bam. After playing with this little cockatiel several times at the shop, Megan decided it was just what she wanted for her birthday.

"I love birds," said Megan. "Before we we got Bam-Bam, we learned how much work they were. We read about birds first in books from the library. We also learned a lot from the staff at The Animal Store, like how to feed Bam-Bam and what size cage we should get."

"I loved it there at The Animal Store," said Megan. "I love to look at all the animals, especially the birds. The people there were really helpful and they have a huge selection of pets."

It's not always easy to tell with birds whether they are male or female, but Megan thinks Bam-Bam is a female "because it whistles a lot and girl cockatiels whistle a lot." Another tell-tale sign is that females have stripes at the bottom of their tail feathers. "Bam-Bam has stripes."

Megan thinks cockatiels make great pets. She takes her bird for "walks" up and down their hallway. "I love the singing!" she said. "Bam-Bam sings the most in the morning." Megan has learned a lot more about cockatiels since she brought Bam-Bam home. "I learned that if its crest is up, that means she is curious; if her crest is down, that means she's calm; and if her crest goes up and down really fast, that means she's mad!" Not shockingly, Megan has figured out that the hardest part of owning a bird is cleaning the cage.

Even still, Megan and her family are happy with their choice.

"We love our new pet! Thank you Animal Store."

Need help picking out your first pet? Stop into the store and we would be glad to help you. Mention the Megan and Bam-Bam post and get 15% any bird toy or treat.* For our posts on first pets, click here.

We'd love to hear about your first pet; email us or click here to leave a comment.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through Wednesday, December 23, 2008.

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Holiday Pet Jokes

2008-12-15T22:54:00.012-06:00

Mom, can I have a dog for Christmas?
No, you can have turkey like everyone else.

How do cats greet each other over the holidays?
Have a furry merry Christmas and a happy mew year.

Why is a cat on a beach like Christmas?
Because they both have "sandy claws".

OK, the jokes may be bad, but the holidays deals are good at The Animal Store. We have gift cards available in any denomination. Stop by soon to fill up your favorite pet's stocking. Mention the Holiday Jokes post and get a 10% discount on cat toys or treats*.

Leave your comment here.

Happy holidays from The Animal Store.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through Monday, December 21, 2008.

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Photo credit: Christmas Kitten by Rachel Kirk.

Holidays and Pet Safety

2008-12-12T19:04:00.022-06:00

As you start decorating and celebrating this holiday season, here are a few tips for making sure your pets stay safe:

When you have a party, consider keeping your dog in a crate as your guests come and go to make sure he or she doesn't escape during frequent door openings.
As you entertain, keep food out of reach. Rich human food can upset sensitive pet tummies or even be dangerous (especially chocolate, which can be toxic or even fatal to pets).
Keep your garbage covered so curious critters don't ingest dangerous substances or small bones.
When decorating, keep delicate ornaments high. Broken glass can cut your pet's feet and be very dangerous if swallowed.
Keep those edible ornaments, such as cookies and candy canes, up high, too.
Secure your Christmas tree. Choose a safe spot, make sure your tree is mounted carefully in a stable stand and don't let your pets drink the water from the stand.
Skip the tinsel, which can be dangerous if swallowed.
Hide or tape down extra electric cords to prevent shocks and tangles.
Be extra careful with open flames. Make sure you put a screen in front of your fireplace, place candles up high on a stable surface, and never leave them burning unattended.
Many plants that we commonly use for holiday decorating are extremely toxic for animals, including poinsettias, holly, ivy, amaryllis, mistletoe, cyclamen, narcissus, kalanchoe, and most lilies. Be careful where you place these plants, keeping them well away from your pets, including bird cages.
Watch the ribbons. Colorful and tempting, ribbons can be dangerous for pets if they eat them or get tangled in them.

Everyone here at The Animal Store wishes you and your pets a safe and happy holiday season. We have lots of ways to help you celebrate. Just mention the holiday safety blog post and get 15% off any holiday-related item*, including our selection of stockings filled with treats for your favorite pet.

We'd love to hear about your favorite pet holiday memory. Just click here.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through Saturday, December 20, 2008.

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Photo credit: Christmas Dog by oscar hdz.

Welcome to New Friends

2008-12-10T10:12:00.009-06:00

«« Cozy kitties relaxing at The Animal Store.

We recently received a nice email from a new visitor to The Animal Store. Here's what Steve and his son Ryan had to say:

"After we visited today, Ryan and I agreed that it was the most amazing pet store we'd been in. We spent a lot of time there, and really enjoyed the exotic collection and being able to touch some of the animals, especially the kitties."

— Steve Frederick

Have you visited the shop yet or been back lately? We look forward to seeing you soon. In honor of Steve and Ryan's experience, just mention this blog post and get 15% off any cat toy or treat.*

We look forward to hearing from you, too. Just click here to leave a comment.

*Offer good on white tags only and valid through Friday, Sunday, December 14, 2008.

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We're Still Thankful …

2008-12-03T00:43:00.010-06:00

… and to prove it, we're offering more discounts to you throughout the holiday season. This week only, all bunny treats and accessories are 15% off the white tag. Offer good through Sunday, December 7, 2008. No coupon necessary, just mention the holiday bunny post.

As always, we welcome your comments and questions. Just click here.

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Photo credit: Santa Bunny by Stephanie Berghaeuser.

We're Thankful for You!

2008-11-25T12:42:00.015-06:00

Reminder: The Animal Store will be

Closed on Thanksgiving

We will reopen at our regular time, 10 a.m., on Friday, November 28. In honor of the holiday, we would like to thank you, our customers, with a special weekend promotion. Just mention this Traveling Turkey post and get:

25% off your entire purchase*

Friday, Saturday and Sunday only

Take advantage of this unprecedented deal as you begin your holiday shopping. We have pets for gifts and gifts for pets. We also offer gift cards* in any denomination — this is a great suggestion for far-away relatives of a pet-loving family.

Animal Boarding at The Animal Store

Are you going away for Thanksgiving or the upcoming holidays? Remember, we board small animals and birds. Call or email us for more information. Click here to share why you are grateful for your pet.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

*discount not valid on gift cards. Offer ends Sunday, November 30, 2008. Discount taken off white tags only and no other discounts apply.

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Graphic credit: Turkey on Vacation by Gravity X9.

Meet the Owner

2008-11-19T13:08:00.008-06:00

We've been doing this blog for a while now and I thought I would take a minute to introduce myself. I am Kenn Bearman and I have owned and operated The Animal Store since 1992. (That's me on the left and, no, my companion is not a resident of The Animal Store. I got to hang out with him while visiting my daughter Becky, who was working at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey.)

People often ask how I came to own a pet shop. Well, I guess you could say I took the scenic route. I have done almost any kind of job you can think of, from bus driver to short order cook, from traditional retail to mail order. My actual college degree is in special education.

Owning a pet store lets me put all my skills and experience to work in one place. Obviously, I get to use my sales and marketing experience, but I also get to use my teaching background, educating customers about animals and pet care.

One of the best parts of my job is getting to know you — the customers who make up The Animal Store community. As a small, local business, we have planted deep roots. I've had the privilege of watching children and pets grow up together. Many of the young people in our community have done internships here, volunteered here as part of the Junior Critter Crew, or gotten their first jobs here. I take great pride in working with and teaching our staff and volunteers. Watch this space and get to know our current staff and helpers, as well as to see where former members of The Animal Store family are now.

In addition to our blog presence, we are in the process of revamping The Animal Store Website. I hope if you are in the area, you will stop in and visit the store in person. To our cyber community, I hope you'll bookmark our blog and Website and visit often. I look forward to meeting all of you.

I look forward to hearing from you, too, so leave a comment by clicking here. Mention this post and get 10% off* any single item on your very next purchase.

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*Expires 11/30/08

Don't Forget to Vote

2008-11-04T11:07:00.008-06:00

Wear your "I Voted" sticker today and get 20% off any single item* on your purchase.

*offer expires 11/30/08

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16 Years and Counting

2008-10-27T09:05:00.014-05:00

Anyone recognize these two animals? Our twins helped celebrate The Animal Store's grand opening 16 years ago this Halloween weekend.

Since then, we have helped thousands of families find just the right pet for their home, boarded their animals when they went on vacation, and watched kids and pets grow up together. We'd like to celebrate our anniversary with you. Just mention the frog and bunny blog and get 20% off* any single item on your next purchase.

This is also a final a reminder for those of you in the neighborhood — The Animal Store is still on display as the featured business for October at the Lincolnwood Branch of Bank Financial, where we are sponsoring a weekly drawing. You've got four more days to enter to win the Grand Prize of an 8-gallon Oceanic BioCube aquarium.

Happy anniversary to us and Happy Halloween to all!

*offer expires 11/30/08

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Family Pet Safety

2008-10-06T15:56:00.016-05:00

We have received a lot of questions about a recent report from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) about children and "exotic" or nontraditional pets, in this case meaning any animal other than cats or dogs.

It's important to note that the very first line of the abstract from that report states:

"Exposure to animals can provide many benefits during the growth and development of children."

More than 63% of American households include pets and we Americans love our pets as members of the family. The primary point of the AAP report is that owning a pet is a major responsibility and education is key. We agree. The report recommends that families, especially those with very young children (under age five), should be careful when choosing a family pet.

You need to learn everything you can about the proper care and handling of animals in your home. It is vital to supervise young children at all times when they are around any animal, including cats and dogs. We also recommend that people wash their hands thoroughly with soap and warm water both before and especially after handling their pets or coming in contact with other animals.

Talk to your pediatrician and veterinarian before bringing a new pet into your home. Ask plenty of questions before you make your decision. At The Animal Store, we believe education is our primary service, and our knowledgeable staff is here to help. We welcome your questions or comments; just click here.

Photo credit: #967756 by lockstockb
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The Animal Store on Display

2008-10-03T15:21:00.017-05:00

During the entire month of October, The Animal Store will be on display as the featured business at the Lincolnwood branch of Bank Financial. The Animal Store is sponsoring a weekly drawing throughout October. We are not advertising this drawing in the store — only here on the blog and on the display table at BankFinancial.

You may enter to win the Grand Prize of an 8-gallon Oceanic BioCube aquarium. Other prizes include: a bird cage and bird toys, filters, test kits, pet waste bags & dispenser, reptile lighting, and a variety of pet treats. Pick up an entry form on display at BankFinancial, 3443 W. Touhy in Lincolnwood. Put your completed entry form in the fish bowl on display. Drawings will be held each Sunday in October. You don't have to be present to win.

Through the display, we are also sponsoring a coloring contest. You are invited to color a copy of The Animal Store logo and bring it into the store for a free treat for your pet. All entries will be displayed in the store window.

Can't make it in to BankFinancial? The next time you stop by The Animal Store, mention this blog post and get a free treat* for your pet.

*offer expires 10/31/08

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The "Who Knew?" Zoo

2008-09-25T23:50:00.018-05:00

Where in Chicago-land can you see a thousand-gallon aquarium, red-eyed tree frogs, blue tegus, jungle carpet pythons, emperor scorpions, pink toed tarantulas, fire belly newts, frisky ferrets, scarlet macaws, pygmy hedgehogs, tiny sugar gliders, exotic iguanas and huge sulcata tortoises?

The Lincoln Park Zoo? Sure. The Brookfield Zoo? You bet. The local strip mall? That's right, if you come to The Animal Store.

Our shop, tucked into the corner of a shopping center in Lincolnwood, has been home to these and hundreds of other exotic animals for more than 15 years. Walking around the store, you will encounter new creatures on every shelf and around every corner. On any given morning, you may run into a mom and toddler petting the bunnies; a couple of kids feeding grapes to Ernie the Giant Gourami; or a second grade teacher introducing her class to the secrets of the rain forest.

I believe education is one of our most important roles. We frequently host small groups such as scout troops, preschool classes and summer camps. Our staff is knowledgeable about the native habitats and life cycles of all our animals, as well as how to care for them. For many of our visitors, this is the closest they have ever come to animals more exotic than domestic cats and dogs. When you visit us at The Animal Store, it's a chance to see the bigger world that we all share.

I hope you visit soon. I'm Kenn, the owner, and I look forward to meeting you. Mention this blog post and get 20% off* any one item. If you can't visit us in person, visit us on the Web at theanimalstore.com.

*offer expires 10/15/08

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Turtle Joke of the Day

2008-09-23T01:27:00.010-05:00

How do turtles pay for things?

They shell out cash.

At The Animal Store, all our pets accept cash, but we also accept personal checks with proper ID, as well as all major credit cards and Animal Store Gift Cards.

We love to hear from you. Email us or leave a comment here.

Photo credit: Donatello by manlord.
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We'll Setup and Maintain Your Aquarium

2008-09-19T01:12:00.017-05:00

Swimming in the Coral

Originally uploaded by moonjazz

"… watching fish swim in an aquarium has been shown to decrease spikes in blood pressure caused by stress and tension."

— Dr. Stacey M. Kerr, family physician
"Research Supports Pets' Healing Power"
The Press Democrat (Santa Rosa, CA)
8/26/08

Humans have always been fascinated by the undersea world, but the hobby of keeping aquariums is a relatively new phenomenon that began during the Victorian era.

Have you ever wanted one of those beautiful aquariums in your home or office, but haven't a clue as to how to set one up or maintain it? Good news — The Animal Store provides aquarium set up and tank maintenance for local customers. We have everything you need for tropical and marine aquariums. Just email us, call Kenn or stop by the store for more information.

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Mice Make Great First Pets

2008-09-17T09:11:00.013-05:00

Pip Originally uploaded by -kirra-

What kind of animal needs to be oiled?
A mouse, because it squeaks!

OK, that's a bad joke, but it's no joke that Animal Store mice make great first pets. Pet mice are a far cry from the field mice that can become household pests. Pet mice can be full of personality; they are gentle and easy to maintain, and can become quite tame if handled regularly. Their habitats don't take up much room, making them ideal pets for families living in small spaces.

Another advantage of owning mice as pets is that they don't require much equipment:

a wire cage or an aquarium with a tight-fitting screen cover
bedding
a small nesting box
a gravity-fed water bottle
a small food bowl
an exercise wheel
food
a few toys and treats

The Animal Store has everything you need to get started. Mention this blog post and get a free mouse with the purchase of a mouse setup.

Ari, a young Animal Store customer told us that the best part of having mice as pets is that "they're cute, and fun to hold and fun to play with." Visit The Animal Store soon and play with some of our mice. We're sure you'll agree with Ari.

Click here to tell us about your pet mouse or tell us your favorite mouse joke.

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Gift Cards Available

2008-09-16T13:00:00.005-05:00

What's in a name? Well, our name — The Animal Store — comes from a wonderful poem written by Rachel Field:

The Animal Store — by Rachel Field

If I had a $100 to spend,
Or maybe a little more
I'd hurry as fast as my legs would go
Straight to the Animal Store.

I wouldn't say "How much for this or that?"
"What kind of dog is he?"
I'd buy as many as rolled an eye,
Or wagged a tail at me!

I'd take the hound with the drooping ears
That sits by himself alone;
Cockers and Cairns and wobbly pups
To be my very own.

I might buy a parrot all red and green.
And the monkey I saw before.
If I had a hundred dollars to spend
Or maybe a little more.

Do you know someone who would enjoy having a little spending money to use at The Animal Store? We have gift cards available in any denomination — the perfect gift for the pet lover in your life. Stop in today, visit us on the web or email us for more information.

Comments welcome; click here.

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Welcome

2008-09-15T21:36:00.018-05:00

Welcome to The Animal Store blog. This is the place for the latest news and information on the best pet store on Chicago's North Shore, and in the world of pets in general.

Did you know that today is Puppy Mill Awareness Day? When you phone The Animal Store, you will hear that "we sell all kinds of live, exotic animals; however, we sell no dogs." We love dogs here at The Animal Store. In fact, if you stop in you might even meet Kenn's Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Hazel (that's her in the picture).

You can also find everything you need at The Animal Store to keep your dog happy and healthy for years to come. Visit us in person or on the Web at www.theanimalstore.com. Mention that you read this blog post and get 25% off our regular low price on any dog treat or chew.

We look forward to hearing from you. Click here to leave a comment and check back often.

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