Sunday, December 16, 2007

Pet boutiques lapping up profits

NEW SMYRNA BEACH -- Rocko Doppler Westerfield, a 9-week-old Boston terrier puppy, stayed calm but looked a little uncertain as owner Jessica Westerfield and sales associate Kim Norse slipped a set of Christmas antlers on his head to see how they fit.

Rocko left without his headgear, but Norse's employer, Vicki Wagner, co-owner of Silly Willie's pet boutique, said customers have been snapping up items like the antlers, edible dog treats called "chicken people," stuffed animals, squeaky toys and holiday outfits for their pets. Wagner and her sister, Joann Bennett, bought the store at 218 Flagler Ave. Nov. 1.

"We have a policy in the store that all pets are welcome, as long as they keep their owners on a leash," Wagner joked. Owners often bring in their dogs to try on pet outfits, she said, or to find out if their dog is the right size for a stroller or carrier before buying it.



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