Dog’s-eye view at new Animal Wellness Centers <br> in Santa Monica
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It might look like a fashion boutique, but that’s actually a pet supply store on Santa Monica’s Main Street.
The minimalist Animal Wellness Centers, with its clean white finishes, high ceilings and carefully displayed merchandise, looks far more Kitson than Petco.
Designed by Rania Alomar, the 2,000-square-foot store is a study in split-level decor. From about 3 feet down, the interior was created to appeal to dogs. Display tables are positioned to make ‘dog-friendly pathways for exploring,’ says Alomar, who also installed mirrors along certain vertical surfaces.
‘Dogs are fascinated by their reflection,’ says co-owner and veterinarian Dr. Annie Harvilicz, above. ‘We want dogs to feel as comfortable here as their owners.’ To that end, there is also plastic grass carpeting, pet- and human-friendly seating and a play zone filled with dog toys.
Above 3 feet, this shop appeals to the extremely health- and design-conscious animal owner. There are elevated wooden dog bowls, cat beds, leashes, pet food, homeopathic animal supplements and shampoos from Harvilicz’s line. And starting this month, the company will offer veterinarian house calls to Westside pet owners.
Animal Wellness Centers, 2803 Main St., Santa Monica; (310) 450-7387 or www.animalwellnesscenters.com.
More photos after the jump ...
Above: Wall-mounted food and water bowls mean less bending for the dog, easier sweeping and mopping for the human. Animal Wellness Centers can order them for customers. They are made in Canada by Vurv Design.
Above: The bent-ply elevated bowls (starting at $118) and dog pod ($599) also are Vurv designs.
Above: Dog goggles, $18.95 to $22.95 depending on size.
Above: The store is stocked with healthcare supplies too, including the pet toothbrushes and oral hygiene rinse pictured here and pet sunscreen for the hotter months ahead.
Above: A bed fit for Paris Hilton’s dog.
-- Alexandria Abramian Mott
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Photo credits: Anne Cusack / Los Angeles Times