In the storefronts at Soldotna’s Peninsula Center Mall, the city’s chamber of commerce recently welcomed one of the region’s newest small businesses. Pet Fort sells a number of items made for furry companions, from beds to leashes to treats.
Bowlin said he noticed a need for a locally owned pet store after realizing there were few options on the peninsula to choose from. He was also inspired by his late dog Phoebe. The 600 square foot shop officially opened in January.
“With Soldotna, it’s just having something unique and unique that I’ve been looking for personally that hasn’t been seen before,” Bowlin said. “It’s just providing that for other people.”
Although she sells many practical items like leashes and vests, Bowlin said customers love the shop’s quirky pet toys made to look like popular foods and drinks. Pet lovers can choose from a plush can of “Pups Blue Ribbon” or “White Paw,” and pair it with a pizza or hot dog chew toy.
Bowlin hopes the store and its products will be an enjoyable experience not only for pets, but for their owners, something he tries to promote with the funny dog pictures hanging on walls and friendly service.
“I learned a lot along the way,” he said. “Each panel of the slat wall and everything is part of the journey of building it, and I built it to please everyone.”
One thing that sets The Pet Fort apart from other pet shops is that a portion of its products are locally made. Bowlin said this is beneficial to local vendors, and in turn, the local economy.
“Bringing these local and unique items to the area gives people a variety of items to buy that they can’t find, and can only find online,” he said. “It brings more to the local area and community.”
Since opening, Bowlin said business has been good, which has allowed her to meet pet owners from across the peninsula. She says The Pet Fort is a fun alternative to big box stores and online pet suppliers.
“I hope people come to this place for a moment of joy, whether they buy or not,” Bowlin said. “I know as a business owner, you may not hear it often, just to have a space for suffering and relaxation, a moment of joy and bring that with them. Leave happier than they came.”
Pet Fort is open Tuesday through Saturday 11 am to 5 pm
