Today sees the opening of the Pet Pit Stop in Alexandra’s Centrepoint Mall – a pet store that will put all profits into rehabilitating rescued animals here in Central Otago.

Shirlene Steel is the driver behind Central Otago charity Animal Rehab Central. She pulled together a team of people who rescue, return to health, care for, re-train and re-home animals that are abandoned, unwanted or surrendered into their care. 

She has also pulled together a solution that helps get rescued animals adopted into loving homes, supports people and their pets, and raises much-needed funds for the charity’s ongoing work.

“All our animals are cared for, returned to health, trained, de-sexed, microchipped and fully vaccinated.

“We also offer additional support after you’ve taken your new pet home.

“However vet bills, treatments such as physio, special diets, re-training and vaccinations all add up for us – there’s never enough money.”

Shirlene’s solution? A pet store.

A pet store with a difference. One that would meet the needs of local pet owners, with all profits going straight back to the rehabilitation of rescued animals.

“We’ve got vet nurses in the retail area; that way people get the right advice before buying food and other things for their pets.

“Then there’s the physio, the adoption room, and a doggy day care for smaller dogs.”

Shirlene explains people with smaller dogs could drop them off for a few hours or a whole day at the doggy day care, and they would be well cared for.

“Especially in the heat of summer, if their owner has an appointment or wants to go shopping, they don’t have to be left in the car.”

The pet store is more than just a retail store - it’s supporting local pet owners, as well as helping rescued animals.

Having animal physiotherapist Bobbi Kerr at the store is a coup for pet owners; Bobbi has been very successful with rehabilitation of rescued animals and Shirlene says she can highly recommend her.

“Bobbi uses drug-free treatments - laser therapy, therapeutic ultrasound massage, strength-building and stretching techniques with great results for pain, lowering inflammation, healing and health.

“Laser treatment has been particularly successful with our rescue dogs who have old injuries that have never been treated properly.”

Shirlene says they planned the pet store with every aspect they offer going hand-in-hand.

“Our staff are qualified vet nurses, one is also a qualified dog trainer; it means people can get good advice on issues of care or diet.

“Then with Bobbi, there’s another layer of expertise for people to tap into.

“In a lot of cases, physio coupled with a balanced diet can solve a lot of issues for your pet.”

The adoption area in the pet store will be for cats and kittens ready for adoption, with dogs coming in when possible – depending on the dog, Shirlene adds.

“People can meet and greet before deciding to adopt.”

The pet store with a difference opens today, with an opening celebration on Saturday.

The difference? While they’re helping you and your pet, you’re ensuring rescued animals are well looked after, properly rehabilitated and happily rehomed.

The Pet Pit Stop is in Centrepoint Mall in Alexandra. Hours are Tuesday to Friday 10.00am - 5.00pm, Saturday 10.00am to 2.00pm.

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