Pattie Harris Zeller, ’80, owned a successful advertising agency with clients in North Carolina, Virginia, and Illinois. But when one of her dogs was diagnosed with cancer, she discovered the holistic benefits of quality pet food and wanted to share this knowledge with others. So, she opened Animal Connection All Natural Store for Dogs and Cats in Charlottesville, Va., which recently received the 2021-22 National Retailer of the Year Award from Pet Product News International.

“I’m ‘Pack Leader’ of Animal Connection,” said Zeller. “My main focus is marketing the store, researching and purchasing products, and training my staff in our methods of excellent customer service. I also contribute to editorial in the pet trade area and I speak at national pet shows on how we enhance our customer experience.”

Offering a line of pet products, full-service grooming, self-service dog washing, dog training, and an in-house “barkery” with treats, cakes, and ice cream, Animal Connection competes with bigger stores by providing a multitude of services customers need in their pet’s lives.

“Since I loved pitching an advertising concept, selling products in a retail store came easily. My grandfather had a country store in Arcola, N.C., and I feel like it’s in my heritage,” said Zeller. “Everything from selecting the foods, toys, shopping at trade shows, right down to seeing customers and their pets become part of our store’s family. It’s a great thing to have a business where we can make a difference in the lives of so many every single day.”

To reach even more people, Zeller started a weekly live show on social media four years ago. What’s Barking Local includes information about pet events as well as interviews with people who are making a difference in Animal Connection’s community. The show reaches over 250,000 viewers each week. 

“Passion for my pets and wanting to share what I learned with others led me to this career decision,” said Zeller. “I’m not sure many people come out of school saying ‘I’m going to be a retailer.’ (I didn’t!) But when your work and personal experience lead you to something you love, be brave and go for it!”