Raising Happy, Healthy Pets

Libbie Belback and friends. Nathalie Walker photo nwalker@midweek.com

As the only pet-friendly mall in the state, it’s fitting that Ward Warehouse is home to The Pet Corner, a one-stop shop for all of your furry friends’ needs.

Owner Libbie Belback purchased the company from her former employer in May 2010. According to Belback, a former veterinarian technician, the concept of the store is to provide the highest quality food, products and customer service to its customers and their pets.

“Customers can expect a great shopping experience. Happy, healthy pets and lifetime-responsible pet ownership is our philosophy,” she says. “We are very fortunate to have a large and varied clientele. We especially enjoy working with first-time pet owners.”

In addition to the basics such as pet food and supplies, The Pet Corner provides education on pet care and nutrition, and is starting a home delivery service. The delivery fee starts at $5 and up.

“Our store specializes in nutrition for your pets, especially with helping you determine what food your animals should be on for specific health needs due to allergies, health or age,” Belback states.

And, in the spirit of Halloween, The Pet Corner is celebrating its anniversary along with Fangtastic Halloween Oct. 28 from noon to 4 p.m. at the store. There will be prize giveaways every 15 minutes and a Halloween costume contest for pets. A pet vendor expo also will take place, and there will be Oahu SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) adoption opportunities.

“We are a pet business with a heart. We always try to do our best for those we assist and the pets we care for,” Belback says. “In October 2011, we opened up our store to the Oahu SPCA for in-store adoptions. Our store hosts their cats, kittens and dogs until they find forever homes. It has truly been a joy having these amazing creatures living in our store with us and knowing that we are able to play a part in them finding a permanent, loving home.”

It’s Belback’s wish to expand the company’s home-delivery service, and to bring pet food and products to seniors and those who don’t have access to high-quality pet products at a reasonable price.

The Pet Corner is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, visit thepetcornerhawaii.com, its Facebook page or call 591-1990.