Salty Paws

About Us – Salty Paws

Our Founder: Karla Shanesy

Karla Shanesy, the founder of Salty Paws, was born and raised in a small town in West Virginia. With a pharmacy degree from West Virginia University, Karla spent over 30 years working in retail pharmacy. Although she enjoyed her work in healthcare, she was ready for a change when a job restructuring left her unexpectedly unemployed. At this point in her life, Karla decided it was the perfect time to pursue her lifelong passion for animals.

The Birth of Salty Paws

Karla’s journey into the pet industry began when she discovered Salty Paws, a store that would allow her to merge her love for animals with her desire to provide a unique and high-quality experience for pets and their families. After relocating to Philadelphia, Karla realized that the city’s residents and visitors were always in need of a pet-friendly, one-stop shop for all their pets’ needs.

Our Vision: Providing a Fun, Pet-Centric Experience

Salty Paws isn’t just a pet store; it’s a celebration of the bond between pets and their families. Karla’s goal was to create a space where customers could find premium pet supplies, grooming services, and unique products that cater to their pets’ needs. Each visit to Salty Paws is meant to be an enjoyable experience for both pets and owners alike.

A Family Affair

Karla’s deep connection to her pets and family played a significant role in shaping the vision of Salty Paws. Her own pets, including three dogs—Henry, Lillie, and Charlie—and two cats—Sidney and Eddie—are a constant source of inspiration. Karla’s family shares her love for animals, and she believes that bringing this family-focused approach to Salty Paws helps create a welcoming, personal experience for every customer.

Why Philadelphia?

Philadelphia has long been known for its dog-friendly atmosphere and vibrant pet community, making it the ideal location for Salty Paws. The city’s residents enjoy spending time with their pets at local parks, outdoor cafes, and pet-friendly shops. With Rittenhouse Square Park just around the corner, Salty Paws is positioned to be the go-to destination for Philadelphia’s pet owners and visitors looking to spoil their pets with the finest products and grooming services.

Our Commitment to You and Your Pets

At Salty Paws, we are deeply committed to providing pets with the care they deserve. Whether it’s helping you find the right food for your dog or offering a pampered grooming experience, Karla and her team go above and beyond to ensure every pet is treated with love and respect. Every product in the store is carefully selected to meet the needs of pets, and Karla’s commitment to offering excellent customer service is reflected in the store’s personalized approach.

Looking Ahead: Salty Paws’ Future

As Karla continues to grow Salty Paws in Philadelphia, she is excited about the future and the opportunity to offer even more products and services to the city’s vibrant pet community. Salty Paws will continue to be a space where pets and their owners can enjoy high-quality products, expert advice, and a fun shopping experience. The store will also continue to foster a sense of community, welcoming both locals and visitors to connect with their pets and experience all that Salty Paws has to offer.