Best Pet Store/Grooming

PetSmart has been in Yuma for three years, and 2006 is the third time it's been named Best Pet Store/Grooming by The Sun's readers.

"That's pretty exciting," said Billie Wooten, store manager. "We're thrilled that we're doing a good job, and we're striving to do a good job. We're happy we have the answers when they (customers) come in with questions.

"I think we really try to give good customer service and good value for their dollar."

The business offers dog training classes with a lifetime guarantee. "They can keep coming in for free if they haven't learned what they're supposed to do by the end of the class. Or if a dog forgets its lessons, it can come back again for free," Wooten said.

PetSmart also provides grooming services. "Our salon is doggy's day at the spa."

But grooming is not just about beauty, Wooten said. Groomers also notice potential medical problems such as bumps, lumps, bugs and even ear infections.

Pet food, toys, treats, cages and "pretty much everything people need for pets" are available at PetSmart. Small animals, fish and birds are also for sale there.

But "we don't believe in selling dogs and cats because there are too many of them that are homeless," said Wooten. Instead, PetSmart provides space in the store for homeless dogs and cats to be adopted out by the Humane Society of Yuma.

For more information, call 329-8218. PetSmart is at 1460 S. Yuma Palms Parkway, Unit 160. Business hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.