It started with an unwavering belief that nutrition was the key for healthier and happier pets. That was almost two decades ago, when Erika and Mark McLean bought a pet store. Sunshine Pets at the time was owned by a vibrant man named Steve, who was so happy to give his customers all the information he could on the proper nutrition for their pets. His enthusiasm rubbed off on all his customers, including Erika and Mark. His ideas about nutrition and good health made sense, just as it does for people.
At the same time another of Steve’s customers, Michelle Gibson, was also convinced she was on the right track when it came to the happiness and good care of her cat.
Erika, Mark, and Michelle didn’t know each other, but their interests were common. They lived on the Coast, worked in the salmon industry, and wanted the best care and nutritious foods for their pets. It wasn’t long before Michelle would come to work at the store and become its manager, knowing that the new owners had continued Steve’s formula for selling only the best food and always advising customers as to what was best for their pets.
The store went through two renovations, a name change to All For Pets, and a move into an expanded building, but the best practices of pet care and nutrition never changed. The new name stood for the best healthy, ethical, eco-friendly and affordable choices for all pets. The bond among Erika, Mark, Michele, and their staff grew stronger. They became a pet-educated, passionate team who knew and cared for their customers and followed them through their pets’ lives.
Those customers and the All for Pets staff were there when Mark passed away suddenly in 2013. They were family and they all cared.
Michelle says, “Our staff are here because they really want to be here. They are educated and dedicated to their work and the well-being of our customers’ pets. It’s not just a job. We are passionate when it comes to our paws and our pet parents.” She says, “Think of every time Norm walks into the bar on ‘Cheers.’ It is actually like that, and that is unique.”
Staff witness customers coming in so excited about their puppy, picking out a new collar and toys. They follow the journey through the pet’s life until that fateful day they all dread, when the customers come in grieving the loss of their beloved pet. The customers ask the staff to donate the leash, the bowls, and to close out their points card. “We don’t. We will donate their point value to charity, but we don’t close out the card. This team knows that as hurt and bruised as they are, that it may take two to four years, but they will be back with another fur-baby that needs them and gives unconditional love. We love it when they come in and their faces light up, and like family, we are there for each other again.”
It is that loyal link that truly defines the store’s name: All for Pets.
