Everybody needs a little retail therapy sometimes, even your favorite furry friend. Luckily, Essex County is home to a variety of pet stores for you and your dog or cat to visit if you’re in the mood to embark on a chew-toy heavy shopping spree — or if you’re in need of more dog food, cat scratching posts, and more. From Belleville to the Oranges, read on for more information on some purr-fect places in Essex County to visit as you set out to pamper your pet.
Animal Kingdom | 436-440 Main Street, East Orange
While Animal Kingdom used to have two locations right in the county, it is now down to just one in East Orange — but it’s still a great place to go. This East Orange spot is where you should go if you are looking to adopt a pet or pick up any sort of care supplies. Animal Kingdom also provides limited boarding and sitting services for your furry friends should you need to go out of town, and you can place special orders at no additional charge.
Brookdale Pet Center | 1054 Broad Street, Bloomfield
(Photo credit: Brookdale Pet Center)
Since 1994, Brookdale Pet Center has been a staple for pet owners in the area. The store carries a range of pet supplies and also facilitates the adoption of small pets. Prospective adopters can even check out the profiles of adoptable animals online before meeting in person. In addition to providing holistic pet foods and finding critters their forever homes, Brookdale Pet Center is a great place to get involved. The Center works with volunteer groups and hosts local animal charities on a regular basis. Be sure to refer to the website for upcoming initiatives.
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CB Pet Market | 517 S Livingston Avenue, Livingston
(Photo credit: Cherrybrook Premium Pet Supplies)
CB Pet Market is a retail chain with multiple storefronts across New Jersey. The Livingston store and grooming salon is the closest option for Essex County. Here, patrons can shop by breed or category and can personalize gift items. And, if you frequent the dog show circuit, CB Pet Market mobile store travels the East Coast throughout the year to attend these events.
City Dog Spa + Boutique | 551 Valley Road, Upper Montclair
(Photo credit: City Dog Spa + Boutique)
Who needs a “pawdicure?” This nail treatment in a “low stress and open concept environment” is one of the options at City Dog Spa & Boutique. Your dog’s well-being is the mission of the groomers and boutique associates, who strive to make sure that your pets are comfortable during their visit, leaving happy and healthy following their haircut. And, of course, the boutique carries many accessories to compliment your little buddy’s new look.
Dogue Grooming + Pet Boutique | 287 Bloomfield Avenue, Caldwell
In need of trendy clothes or seeking some TikTok fame for your four-legged friend? Check out Dogue Grooming & Pet Boutique. This salon offers expert ear cleaning, a brush out, and nail trimming as a part of every bath and full grooming service. If your pet needs to upgrade its wardrobe, look no further. The boutique portion of the store is home to an adorable collection sure to make your tail wag. And, you never know, your pet’s OOTD might just make it to the official TikTok page: @therealdogue.
Home Towne Pet Shoppe | 756A Bloomfield Avenue, West Caldwell
Home Towne Pet Shoppe is a family-owned spot that is proud to provide a personalized shopping experience. The store services dogs, cats, smaller animals, and even has an extensive collection of care items for your favorite fish. Home Towne patrons can also make an appointment to bring their pet to the self-service wash center. If your little buddy is a bit anxious at the groomer, the wash center is a great way to bond over a bath.
L&B Healthy Pet Markets | 15 S Fullerton Avenue, Montclair
(Photo credit: L&B Healthy Pet Markets)
This healthy pet market is on a mission to “build community and improve the lives of furry friends.” Located right in Montclair, the store caters to the health-conscious canine consumer. L&B stocks raw frozen, freeze-dried, canned food, kibble, and a choice of single-ingredient treats. The market coordinates regular community events and the website includes preferred veterinarian recommendations.
My Love Pets + Grooming | 277 Main Street, Belleville
Located in the State Fair Mall Plaza, My Love Pets and Grooming has a lot of love for your furry friend. The full-line pet store stocks a selection of “variety driven dog food and treats,” including a puppy Pâté by Fromm (for the fanciest of your four-legged friends). Grooming services are available by appointment, with offerings such as oxygen-infused baths, nail trimming, ear treatments, and scented cologne options. If your pet is in need of a new ‘do, they’ll also leave their appointment with a stylish bow or tie.
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Pupcake Grooming + Dog Bakery | 392 Bloomfield Avenue A, Caldwell
When taking a lunch break with your pet, Pupcake is a great option. The Dog Bakery serves tasty treats, including an assortment of the signature “pupcakes.” For those special or seasonal occasions, Pupcake also has select themed cakes and cookies. Grooming and spa services are available for both dogs and cats, and the business website offers essential pet care tips in a friendly blog format.
Well Bred | 184 S Livingston Avenue, Livingston
(Photo credit: @wellbredpets)
“Healthy, holistic, and organic” is how Well Bred of Livingston describes its offerings. The store has a plethora of healthy food options and treats for your canine or feline to enjoy. Well Bred also caters to small pets, so make a trip if you’re updating your mouse’s house, or if your chinchilla needs something to chew.