We won’t tell them if you forgot, but April 11 was National Pet Day. In the heart of downtown Edmonton, Azzy’s Pet Shop has become a go-to destination for owners who want nothing but the best for their four-legged family members.
We caught up with owner Sebastian Popa to talk about the inspiration behind the shop and how he is helping Edmontonians spoil their pets this weekend.
A shop built on puppy love
The story of the shop begins with a 10-year-old Havanese named Azzy. A fan of belly rubs, treats and toys (in that order), Azzy is the reason Sebastian decided to open a shop focused on high-quality food and honest recommendations.
“Like a lot of pet owners, I just wanted the best for her and found myself always searching for better quality food, treats and products,” Sebastian says. “That turned into a bigger idea creating a shop where other pet owners could find the same kind of quality and honest recommendations.”
What started as a personal search for quality has grown into a community hub. Sebastian makes sure every product on the shelf meets a high standard – it must be something he would feel comfortable giving to his own dog.
Your downtown community pet shop
For Sebastian, the most rewarding part of running Azzy’s is the relationship he has built with the neighbourhood. It isn’t just about retail; it’s about being a consistent, friendly face for downtown residents and their pets.
“Seeing familiar faces come back, watching pets grow, and even just getting a tail wag when they walk in, it never gets old,” Sebastian says. “It means a lot that people trust us to be part of their pet’s routine.”
Whether it’s his locals popping in to share a photo of their pet or a dog getting excited to pick out a snack, those interactions are what make the shop a community staple.
“One of our favourite things to see is how much pets are truly part of the family,” he says. “It’s those little moments like a dog getting excited to pick out their favourite snack that shows how strong that connection is.”
Spoiling your pet this Saturday
If you are looking to treat your companion this weekend, Azzy’s Pet Shop is highlighting a curated selection of “Azzy’s personal favourites.”
What to look for in-store:
Natural and freeze-dried treats: Healthy snacks for your pet to enjoy.
Enrichment toys: Perfect for keeping pets busy and happy.
Personalized advice: Sebastian and his team are always happy to help you pick out the perfect item for your pet.
Advice from the owner
When it comes to celebrating, Sebastian suggests keeping the focus on what makes your pet happiest. While a new snack is always a win, the quality time spent together is what matters most.
“Take a page from Azzy: keep it simple and fun,” Sebastian says. “Pick something your pet genuinely loves, whether it’s a new treat, a toy, or just some extra time together… at the end of the day, they’re happiest just being with you (but a few extra snacks definitely don’t hurt).”