Local Business Spotlight: Calico Creek Feed & Pet

Local Business Spotlight: Calico Creek Feed & Pet 

With over 17 years in business, Calico Creek continues to serve as Clinton County’s sanctuary for animal lovers.

By Emily Wright

MILL HALL— Calico Creek Feed & Pet is more than just a pet store in Mill Hall; it’s a sanctuary for animal lovers. Wendy Pavalko has been managing the store for the past two years after previously overseeing the fish room. The business continues to thrive since its founding in 2007 by owners Nancy Renninger and her late husband, Ernie. Nancy’s deep-rooted love for animals, combined with Ernie’s entrepreneurial spirit, gave rise to the cherished establishment.

Calico Creek goes above and beyond typical feed and pet shops, offering a comprehensive range of pet services. This includes everything from baths, pedicures, dental brushes, and specialized haircuts to spa treatments at its full-service Grooming Spa, staffed with professional groomers. Additionally, a self-service Pet Wash and an on-site Veterinary Clinic, led by Dr. Sherri Cokefair, VMD, make it the ultimate one-stop shop for pet owners and animal lovers.

The store stocks a complete range of food and supplies for various animals, including dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, and fish. Unlike conventional pet stores, Calico Creek extends its offerings to livestock, providing supplies and Blue Seal feeds for horses, chickens, and even wildlife and deer feeds. Supplies, services, and food for “pocket pets” like hamsters and guinea pigs are also available at Calico Creek. In February, Calico Creek received its first shipment of chicks in a diverse array of breeds, perfectly timed for the spring season. To gain insights on what to expect and what to prepare for when raising chicks, stay tuned to The Record for an upcoming article featuring an interview with Tammy Parker, assistant manager and Calico Creek’s expert on all things chick-related.  

The Paw Spa at Calico Creek offers a range of professional grooming services, including walk-in nail clippings for dogs and full grooming services for both dogs and cats that are available by appointment. Wendy highlighted a special nail service where the groomers apply vinyl caps to pets’ nails as a humane alternative to declawing. These caps not only prevent scratching or damage to floors, furniture, and upholstery but are also nontoxic and safe for extended use. Additionally, the groomers provide de-matting services for long-haired cats and can perform “lion cuts” when necessary.

Wendy underscored the advantages of having an independent veterinary clinic within the store; it encourages pet owners to get their pets vaccinated and also address any health concerns. When staff members encounter questions they’re not fully equipped to answer, they refer customers to the in-house veterinary clinic for guidance from Dr. Cokefair. Dr. Cokefair can also assist customers with pets that need specific prescription pet foods. With the veterinary clinic conveniently located on-site, the store truly serves as a comprehensive one-stop shop for all pet needs.

Calico Creek sets itself apart from other pet stores not only through its extensive range of animal food and pet services but also through its proactive efforts to reduce the number of stray cats in the area. The store has formed a partnership with Heidi’s Furry Friends Rescue Inc., a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal rescue and shelter based in Williamsport. This collaboration enables Calico Creek to house adoptable cats from the rescue in-store, allowing customers to interact with them and possibly make one the newest member of their family. Wendy highlighted the success of this partnership, with ten cats from the rescue already finding new homes through the store.

Cats from Heidi’s Furry Friends Rescue are up-to-date on their vaccinations and have been spayed or neutered, saving adopters significant costs. This partnership not only eases the burden on local shelters but also gives these cats exposure to loving families, emphasizing Calico Creek’s dedication to animal well-being and community care. Wendy mentioned that the store typically has one to three rescue cats available at any given time, and on the business’s Facebook page, incoming cats are regularly posted. Currently, Calico Creek is running a photo contest featuring cats from Heidi’s Furry Friends Rescue on its Facebook page to promote adoptions.

Calico Creek offers exclusive deals and rewards to pet owners through its Astro Loyalty Program, which Wendy noted is only available at privately owned pet stores. Customers who register in-store can take advantage of monthly specials and frequent buyer rewards, such as “buy ten, get one free” offers. At the start of each month, Astro Loyalty members receive an email featuring a variety of discounted pet products, including dog food, treats, toys, cat litter, supplies for small “pocket pets”, horse feed, and more. The program offers different specials on a variety of pet products each month.

With its wide array of service offerings, inventory, and dedication to animal welfare, Calico Creek Feed & Pet remains a cornerstone in Clinton County, nurturing bonds between people and their pets.

To stay up-to-date about the latest inventory, pets, and services at Calico Creek, you can find them on Facebook by searching “Calico Creek Feed and Pet” or on Instagram at www.instagram.com/calicocreekpet. For more information, visit their website at www.calicocreekfeedandpets.net or call the store at (570) 726-3647.

Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and closed on Sundays. 

Calico Creek Feed & Pet is located at 2967 Eagle Valley Road in Mill Hall.