LAPLACE — Petsense celebrates its grand opening Aug. 25 at 1332 W. Airline Highway in LaPlace, returning pet supplies, grooming services and adoption events to the location where PetSmart closed last month.

The store could see a soft opening in the days leading up to Saturday, according to store manager Brice Roberts, who said team members are working diligently to set up shop, hire a groomer and build ties with nonprofit agencies within the community.

Once established, Roberts plans to invite the St. John Parish Animal Shelter to the storefront for weekend adoption events.

Petsense also has space where 501c3 nonprofit agencies can bring cats for public adoption.

Live animals ready for new owners include bearded dragons, leopard geckos and a variety of fish.

“The community should be excited because we’re happy to be here and we like to be part of the community, and not just in a business aspect,” Roberts said.

“We like to be out in the community and partner with agencies. We like to open stores in smaller markets to keep people happy where a pet store is needed or where one has recently left. People need a place to buy supplies for their pets.”

Store employee Suzanne Mitchell said the Petsense grand opening comes with a $10-off special.

“We’ll have some products, including pet food, that will be $9.99, so you’ll be able to get those for free,” Mitchell said.

She said Petsense is planning to deliver wonderful service, great products and employment opportunities to St. John the Baptist Parish.

“It’s a smaller business, so it’s more family oriented, personable and friendly,” Mitchell said.

Established in 2005, Petsense is rapidly expanding with more than 160 stores nationwide.

Roberts said Petsense prices are comparable to and, in some cases, lower than what was previously offered to LaPlace residents at PetSmart.

Blue Buffalo, Science Diet, Merrick, Nulo and house brand True Source are among the pet food brands carried by the store.

Small animal and reptile supplies and food are also available, including crickets and frozen mice.

As the business grows on a national scale, Roberts said each store has a responsibility to maintain a community-focused atmosphere.

“Customer service is our No. 1,” Roberts said. “We have a small town feel where we like to think of our customers as family. We’ll know you and your pets by name.”

According to Roberts, the LaPlace location will soon implement Sunday bath specials, which cost $10 for dogs under 50 pounds, $20 for dogs weighing 50 to 100 pounds and $30 for dogs weighing more than 100 pounds. Store hours will be 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

Employment opportunities are available. Apply online at petsense.com/pages/employment.