Independent Pet Store Brings Holistic Approach to Animal Care in South Jersey
United States, 30th Apr 2025 – Victor Santucci never intended to become a cornerstone of the South Jersey pet community. But after rebuilding from a devastating fire in 2022, his Garden State Pet Center has transformed into a sanctuary for pet enthusiasts seeking specialized care beyond what big-box retailers provide.
Located at 226 S White Horse Pike in Audubon, the independent store stands apart in the crowded pet retail landscape with its distinctive focus on holistic animal care and exotic pets. The business emerged from adversity when Santucci, who purchased his first pet store in 2018, lost his original location to fire, giving him an opportunity to relocate closer to his South Jersey roots.
The spacious 2,500-square-foot retail space houses an extensive selection of premium nutrition options for pets of all kinds. Customers find carefully curated products including raw, freeze-dried, and gently cooked foods from respected brands.
“We believe that pets are family, and their health and well-being are of the utmost importance,” said Santucci, who serves as a Certified Clinical Pet Nutritionist for his customers. “Pet ownership isn’t just a transaction—it’s a commitment that can span decades.”
What truly distinguishes Garden State Pet Center is its diverse selection of live animals. The store specializes in hand-fed baby parrots, small mammals including guinea pigs, bunnies, rats, degus, ferrets, hedgehogs, chinchillas, and sugar gliders, alongside reptiles and exotic invertebrates. The birds receive specialized socialization from a young age, preparing them for successful integration into their new homes.
The business offers services rarely found in conventional pet stores: professional grooming for birds, reptiles, and small mammals, including nail trims, beak trims, and wing clipping; specialized boarding for exotic pets; avian DNA gender and disease testing; nutrition consultations; and free local delivery within 10 miles for purchases over $20.
Creating a welcoming, educational environment remains central to Garden State Pet Center’s approach. The store features a dedicated “bonding center” where prospective pet owners can meet and interact with animals before taking one home. This space includes comfortable seating and refreshments, designed to create a relaxed atmosphere for customers to learn about proper pet care.
Store mascots including Capone (an XL American Bully), Atlas (a French Bulldog with severe food allergies), and Archie (the store’s “Chief Treat Officer”) greet visitors, making the shopping experience feel more like visiting a second home than a retail establishment.
“We want to create lifetime bonds and friendships with our customers,” Santucci explained. “We want them to be comfortable with their pets. We want to be a resource.”
The business has earned recognition, reflecting its commitment to sustainability and ethical pet care practices. For South Jersey residents seeking specialized nutrition consultations or exotic pet supplies, the store offers expertise that combines passion with specialized knowledge.
The establishment’s focus on community education extends to combating misinformation in pet care. “I’ve always loved pets, but the market is so saturated with misinformation on pet health,” Santucci noted. His team works to provide accurate, science-based guidance on species-appropriate nutrition and care practices.
Despite the setback of losing his original location, Santucci’s perseverance has allowed Garden State Pet Center to flourish in its new community. The locally-owned business continues to grow its reputation as a trusted resource for both new and experienced pet owners throughout the region.
Media Contact
Organization: Garden State Pet Center
Contact Person: Victor Santucci
Website: https://www.gardenstatepetcenter.com/
Email: Send Email
Country: United States
Release Id: 30042526910