Pet store Petagogy grows customer base, plans move to downtown Greensburg

Jeff Himler, Tribune-Review, Greensburg, Pa.
·2 min read

Mar. 3—Owners of a local pet supply store found a paws-itively purr-fect new location to set up shop, in downtown Greensburg.

Petagogy will wrap up business April 18 at its Hempfield location, on Route 30 across from Ferrante's Lakeview banquet facility, with plans to reopen on April 21 on Greensburg's East Pittsburgh Street, between Hutchinson Way and Urania Avenue.

The Hempfield store, which opened five years ago, doesn't see as much traffic as another, older Petagogy location in Shadyside, according to Ben Huber, one of the owners. He's hoping that will change at the new downtown site, which formerly housed Greensburg Tools and Supplies. The location isn't far from the Five Star Trail, a popular spot for people to walk their dogs.

"Originally, we tried to get into downtown," Huber said. "When we saw the building went up for sale, we put in an offer. We needed a place in town that had parking."

The independent shop's product lines, not found in most big box stores, attract customers from as far away as Connellsville. "We have a lot of customers who said we'll be much closer now. They can walk their dogs to the store," Huber said.

There is room outside to accommodate special events in warmer months, Huber said. He noted the relocation will allow for an added amenity, a self-service dog wash.

"We ripped out an existing bathroom and will put a dog tub in," he said.

There were unforeseen expenses in renovating the building over the past year, including a leaking roof and increased cost of construction materials.

At the same time, Huber said, the store's customer base has grown as more people became dog and cat owners during the covid-19 pandemic.

Petagogy held Yappy Hours, in conjunction with charity events, and during Greensburg's Craft Beer Week.

At the new location, Huber said, "We can be a little more involved with things in town."

Among those who can't wait for Petagogy to open its new store is Jessica Hickey, director of the Downtown Greensburg Project.

"I'm excited about them coming downtown," she said. "It's a great location for them and it's going to be beneficial to the community."

Jeff Himler is a Tribune-Review staff writer. You can contact Jeff at 724-836-6622, jhimler@triblive.com or via Twitter .