June 28, 2010
By Nancy E. Hassel, LIPetPlace.com

About 9 years ago, I heard from a fellow pet lover about a new pet store opening in North Babylon, and that I had to go there and check it out. When I asked why, what was so special about it? I was told, just go and see for yourself. So I did. At the time I was shopping at the local big box chain pet store, and wasn’t really impressed but there were not a lot of options to choose from. I remember when I was kid going to the local pet store in Babylon Village where the owner was always very personable and helpful and he seemed to know a heck of a lot about all kinds of pets. I got that same feeling when I walked into Cozy Pet in North Babylon and met the owner, Sue Carmody.

Sue was immediately warm and friendly, had a lot of knowledge about the products in her store and always remembered my dog’s name each time I came in – and gave her extra treats. That personal customer service and attention is what kept me coming back to Cozy Pet. Not to mention that the quality of products were much better than the big box store. So in approaching the 10 year anniversary of Cozy Pet I sat down with Sue to talk about the shop.

What drew you to opening a home town pet boutique? “I started a Mom & Pop type store because I grew up in a small general food store as a child. I have always believed that the small business person is the life-line of this country and you can certainly get a warmer more personal welcomed feeling in such a store.”

What is your background in the pet industry? ”I have long and extensive background in canine, feline and horse care. I worked for a Vet Hospital for several years and I’m an experienced Medical Tech and Registered Medical Assistant. I’ve conducted a 5 year clinical study on dog food, cat food and canine nutrition, gaining extensive knowledge in nutrition, supplements, skin and coat conditions and health related diet problems. I have also worked in animal rescue for over 25 years.”

What is your position on pet foods? “I believe in feeding all-natural foods to our pets because they are not in the wild therefore they can not choose proper nourishment for themselves. We are their caretakers and it is up to us to do what is best for their health and well being. Chemical and animal by-products in their diet can cause many medical problems. Also dogs and cats should eat a meat protein based diet and not a grain one that is in most of the non-natural foods.”

You have grooming at Cozy Pet, what do you do to set Cozy Pet’s grooming apart? “Our grooming is an open door welcome to stay shop. So if you want to stay with your dog while it’s being groomed you are welcome to do so. It is a one-on-one service for your pet, like a hair appointment for yourself. We do not cram dogs into crates and keep them all day for several hours. Our client’s dogs are much more relaxed and have a groomer who is only working on one dog at a time. We do not use cage dryers – we only use hand blowers which is much safer for the dog. All our shampoos are natural, of the best quality and when a dog comes in we can check its skin and coat to use the best shampoo for that dog. We also have Oatmeal and Medicated shampoo that we can use on problem skin. Our rooms are sanitized as well as our equipment so each dog is safe from fleas & kennel cough. All go home with bows, bandannas and treats.

What do you like most about owning your own shop? “The best thing about having this shop is that I am able to talk to people and help to educate them on nutrition for their pet’s diet. My favorite thing is to welcome each dog that comes in for grooming or just to shop with its owner, I love seeing them and giving out a “goody” bone. It makes my day complete to get a kiss and a tail wag!”

Cozy Pet started in smaller store, but has recently expanded into a larger store a few storefronts down from the original location. And if your scratching your head saying, “Isn’t Cozy Pet in Babylon Village?” You would be correct there is a second location operated by her son, and has all the same great qualities as the North Babylon location.

One thing I will say as a customer is that Cozy Pet always gives back to the community through working with different rescues, hosting events and of course with great customer service. And while big box pet stores still pop up, the dedicated customer service of an owner of a mom & pop pet boutique will keep customers coming back, again and again.

www.cozypettlc.com

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