One of the city’s beloved pet stores is expanding into The Hydraulics. Animal Outfitters is opening a second location at 500 Seneca Street. What might appear to be an unlikely move for the pet shop is actually not so surprising considering that the business is looking to concentrate on “dog daycare, grooming, self-service dog washing, canine training and fitness, along with additional premium pet wellness activities and services.”
It is also interesting to note that the management of 500 Seneca consider the building “the first of its kind pet-friendly historic alternative reuse building project.” The ten year running doggy retailer will join myriad other operators within the facility, including the sensational B. Layne Creations and the ever impressive Lunch Box.
“Animal Outfitters is more than a location—it’s an experience based on exceptional customer service, providing unparalleled expertise and competitive pricing,” said Omar Zahzouhi, Owner and President of Animal Outfitters. “Moving beyond our retail roots, we will now offer our Animal Outfitters’ family a safe and fun environment for dog daycare, play, and wellness activities in a home-away-from-home atmosphere. We are invested in the future of the city of Buffalo and are thrilled to be associated with the 500 Seneca historic restoration and adaptive reuse project.”
Once open, Animal Outfitters will boast a 2,500 square foot indoor facility, along with a 600 square foot outdoor private dog park. The unique Fido-friendly location is being designed by Michael Anderson, owner and president of Abstract Architecture, and sculptor Sarah Fonzi.
Animal Outfitters at 500 Seneca will feature:
- Concierge Pet Care Services for Residential Loft and Commercial Residents of 500 Seneca
- Training and Educational Workshops for Pet Parents and their Dogs
- Dog Daycare, Grooming, and Self-Service Dog Wash Facilities
- Walking, Exercise, Training, and Engaging Interactive Activities
- Curated Selection of Pet Accessories and Treats for the Discriminating Pet Parent
A celebration is scheduled to be held on Saturday, June 11, 2016, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. The event will also feature a book signing from author Maria Christina Schultz who has released a book titled Paddle Tails: Reflections on People and Dogs Who Find Balance on the Water. After the open house and book signing, additional activities will be held at the nearby Buffalo River Fest Park (249 Ohio Street), where a dog paddleboard demonstration will get underway, conducted by Schultz (3:00 pm).
It’s certainly an exciting day in Buffalo, when local businesses can flourish in various districts. For a store owner to identify an expansion opportunity within an economically diverse footprint such as 500 Seneca, it just goes to show that this city is expanding its boundaries for business opportunities. The Hydraulics, located near Larkinville, is prime for both small and large economic advancements thanks to its ideal location and its historic building stock that is finally being capitalized upon.
Photos: 500 Seneca + Animal Outfitters
