Pet-supply store to move to larger site

Deborah Olmsted has good reason to be excited. She’s relocating her pet-supply business to 1220 S. Grand Blvd., one of the most visible spots on the South Hill.

The building, next to Beau K Florist, was the home of Country Cottage Furniture until Grand Plaza LLC bought it. For months, drivers on the South Hill have watched as granite and bricks were added.

“I’m really excited,” Olmsted said. “It’s such a great spot. I’ve wanted it for two years.”

Olmsted’s business will take up three of the four bays, or approximately 2,300 square feet. She opened her store on Dec. 3, 2003, in a 900-square-foot refurbished garage just south of 29th Avenue and Grand. It was an immediate success, catering to pet owners who pamper their dogs and cats with high-end chow and the latest merchandise like fleece vests, doggie raingear and hand-tooled leather collars.

Olmsted plans to move in early November. She will call her pet boutique The Urban Canine and Dog Spa. A day at the spa will include grooming, training, massage, or water therapy for injured dogs. The spa is scheduled to open in February.

Olmsted also will have more room to stock a variety of organic dog food and supplements.

As for Olmsted’s neighbor, a spokesperson for Grand Plaza LLC said seven or eight merchants, from restaurant to small-business owners, have expressed interest in leasing the 1,500-square-foot space. A decision could come this week.