My golden retriever Buddy needed his monthly supplies last weekend, so I decided to do a price check at pet stores around Eliot. Grabbed my notepad and phone, then drove out to compare three spots: Maine Pet Supply downtown, that big chain store by the highway, and the family-run pet place near the post office.
First stopped at Maine Pet Supply since it’s closest to my house. Walked straight to the dog food aisle and snapped pics of price tags for Buddy’s regular kibble. Their employee saw me comparing and actually handed me their current flyer – pretty helpful! Wrote down:
- Buddy’s 30lb salmon kibble: $47.99
- His favorite dental chews: $14.49
- Basic nylon leash: $8.25
Headed to the chain store next. Big mistake going on a Saturday afternoon – packed parking lot and checkout lines snaking halfway down the aisles. Squeezed through crowds to check identical products. Felt kinda awkward taking notes while people gave me weird looks. Got these numbers:
- Same kibble bag: $52.95 (on “sale”!)
- Dental chews: $15.99
- Nearly identical leash: $12.75
Last stop was Benson’s Family Pet – that hole-in-the-wall shop with the hand-painted sign. Older gentleman at the counter remembered Buddy’s name from last visit. Prices were handwritten on sticky notes under items. Surprise discovery:
- Kibble: $45.50 for smaller 25lb bag
- Chews: $13.25 but store brand
- Braided leash: $9.99 and way sturdier
Back home, spread my notes on the kitchen table like poker cards. Maine Pet Supply won on the main kibble – Benson’s price was lower but for less food. Benson’s chews were cheaper but different formula. The chain store? Total rip-off across the board.
Ended up mixing solutions: kibble from Maine Pet Supply since Buddy loves that specific formula, chews from Benson’s after checking ingredients matched, and splurged on Benson’s braided leash. Saved $18 total versus just grabbing everything at one spot. Crazy how prices jump just crossing town lines!
Biggest lesson? That “convenience” chain store tax hits hard. Supporting local shops saved money this round, plus Benson’s threw in free poop bags without me asking. Buddy gives two paws up for Maine Pet Supply’s kibble price and Benson’s customer service. Next month I’ll do my flea meds comparison – those things cost more than my car insurance!
