I had the idea 12 years ago of having a pet supply store with a drive-thru. I now have my first store in a few years. I know customers at that Portland location struggle with parking and I find it very difficult to lift heavy bags of pet supplies, especially if they have a small child with them.
My idea was put into action after I wrote a business plan, hired a business coach to help me sort out the problems, and got a loan from a local community bank. I researched places without a local pet supply store from Vancouver to Salem, and finally found the place in Tigard that checked all my boxes. I’m so glad!
Filling Station Pet Supplies in Tigard was born on July 15, 2015. The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, and deep relationships have been cultivated. I’ve watched your pets grow older and older, I’ve cried and privately grieved alongside you when you lost your animals, and my team and I have helped create an environment where the owners of pets can ask for help when navigating the confusing world of pet food. I am deeply committed to the community we serve and love that you have trusted us to work with you over the past eight years.
The time has come for me to pass the baton. Significant staff shortages at both of my locations have slowed my ability to attend, literally, which this store deserves and needs. I am happy to announce that as of September 1st, I will be leaving to allow The Filling Station in Tigard to have new owners who can be on-site full-time to better support our pet community.
Let me introduce you to Kayla and Kristin Roberts. Kayla and Kristin have over 20 years of combined experience in the pet industry. Kristin is an experienced groomer, and Kayla has managed a local, holistic pet supply store for over nine years. Together, they own Goat & Bear Grooming Salon in the same building. Kristin runs the grooming shop, and Kayla has been helping Kristin get it off the ground for the past two years. Knowing Kayla’s background, I approached her as I thought she and Kristin would be perfect for taking over my business. “Our pets are our children, and we treat them as such. We want to help others give their pets the best care and products they need so they can live a long, healthy and happy life”, said Kayla.
I have 100% confidence in what is to come. Services like drive-thru, our online store with auto-order capability, delivery and the popular bags of chocolates handed out at checkout will all remain! I’m also happy to report that every member of the TFS Pets team is staying put and understands that changes like this can cause a lot of questions. They are ready to help you. The quality of the products will remain the same. Kayla and Kristin firmly believe in the products we carry and will not deviate from our high standards. You will find some additional items, especially toys and treats, so exploring the store will be exciting with more to choose from.
What about the name?
I am the owner of the name The Filling Station Pet Supplies. Over the next few months, you’ll see a new name as they make this transition. I hope you tell all your friends and neighbors to help ease any worries.
I want to thank everyone who has supported my store and my dream, especially my parents, Karrie and Marshall Amiton and my partner Laurie Radmacher. I would also like to thank every employee, past and present, who has worked at The Filling Station Pet Supplies Tigard for their dedication and hard work. I am proud of them and I am grateful for their support while working with me. I want to thank Michael Antonelli of Tigard Life. He has been an amazing support as a friend, colleague, and by allowing me to offer monthly articles to your local newspaper. And I want to thank you especially. I will cherish those relationships and encourage you to embrace Kayla and Kristin as they embark on this new and very special adventure.
