SARATOGA SPRINGS — The newest Benson’s Pet Center on Ballston Ave. is a hit with local customers and their pets who live near downtown Saratoga Springs.
The store, at 175 Ballston Ave., is inside the plaza where Slugger’s Den batting cages and Cutting Edge Martial Arts used to be located. They didn’t hold an official grand opening and instead wanted to serve customers right away; the completely remodeled store opened its doors just after Christmas while they were still stocking shelves. This is Benson’s 7th location in the Capital Region, and it’s in a perfect spot for customers in the area to stop in while on walks with their furry friends.
“This store is a great opportunity to support and serve customers new or old in the area, and we are so happy to be here,” said Benson’s General Manager Moira Nowc, who is in her 16th year with the company. “The dogs know the path here and always want to come in to get cookies.”
One of the unique features at this location is the do-it-yourself dog wash station, which will be added in other locations in the future. After speaking with a Benson’s associate about your dog’s needs, they provide shampoo, towels, etc. and disinfect the station after each use. Appointments have been on a walk-in basis, and they have seen about 90 dog washes since opening only two months ago.
Some other popular products include treats from the Lazy Dog Cookie Co. which is a local brand out of Ballston Spa. Other items include puzzles and mental enrichment toys to help dogs with “cabin fever”, whether from being couped up during quarantine or the cold winter months, and Musher’s paw treatment to help heal dog’s paws from the salt on the roads and sidewalks.
This location sells crickets and feeder insects but doesn’t plan on having any other live animals or fish for sale in the store, as Benson’s Fish Room is also in a great location just minutes down the road.
A knowledge-based company, Benson’s locations and staff support each other and are always working towards getting customers the answers they need for their pets.
“I enjoy making a difference in peoples’ and pets’ lives, and I think we all feel that way,” said Nowc. “We know our products and like being the people who have the answers. We all like what we do and are all active volunteers in the community.”
In fact, Benson’s started their own 501(c)(3) called Benson’s Pantry. Customers can donate their change to help buy resources that go to local animal shelters. They also announce other charity events they participate in on their Facebook Page or on their website at www.bensonspet.com. There, you can also sign-up for their newsletter to get promotions and sales sent directly to your inbox.
If you’re going to be in the area, stop in and check out the new Ballston Ave. store – remember to bring your furry friend along too!
