We would be honored if you'd consider nominating Paws pet boutique as the 'Best Pet Specialty Store' (Collier County) in the Gulfshore Life Readers' Choice 2024 Awards. Heartfelt thanks to all who gave Paws pet boutique this recognition in 2022 and 2023.

Nominate your favorite small businesses today! 

If you haven't visited our small business located in Old Naples by the City Dock, consider yourself invited! The Pet Boutique is located between two magnificent French restaurants, Bleu Provence and Chez Boet, and the legendary Dock Restaurant - all of which are dog-friendly.

What to expect...

When we hear the comment 'That was fun!' from clients in the shop, we know we've made today count. A happy memorable experience paired with unique products that celebrate the bond we are lucky to share with animals is a win for everyone. 

In addition to finding special items for dogs, cats and their humans, our small business is anchored on giving back to animal charities. A charitable piece is always entwined in our dog-friendly social events we host throughout the year.  

With the support of the Annapolis, Maryland community (where Paws was nestled the first 20 years) and now the Naples community the last 4+ years, Paws pet boutique has evolved to what it is today. Words cannot express our gratitude. Thanks for being part of the journey. You make the dream continue.

- Your Paws Crew

Paws pet boutique

759 12th Avenue South, Naples, FL 34102  

Naples Locals’ Favorite Pet Boutique Celebrates New Downtown Location

Paws Pet Boutique relocates to waterfront location after building a strong following in the community.

Naples, FL: Paws Pet Boutique celebrates a new store location in the heart of Olde Naples

alongside the dog-friendly Naples Dock at Crayton Cove. Known for providing the Naples community with specialty pet toys, treats and accessories, Paws welcomes parents to explore everything the new store has to offer. From an adorable “Chewy Vuitton” toy purse to a hand-baked birthday cake treat for pets, there’s something at Paws Pet Boutique to celebrate any occasion in your furry friend’s life.

In 2019, owners Michelle and Larry Kownacki brought the Paws concept from Annapolis, MD, to Naples, opening a brick-and-mortar store off of Vanderbilt Beach Road. After 20 years of experience building and running the successful Annapolis storefront, creating a loyal following of Naples’ pet-parents within a year of opening was only natural. Since opening the Naples location, the pair have built genuine connections with the community (both people and pets!) to create a brand that is entirely authentic.

The pair has also created a strong presence on social media, driving e-commerce sales and foot 

traffic through platforms like Instagram by posting pictures of happy canine customers enjoying a new treat, toy or accessory. This ability to adapt and collaborate has proved a success, garnering thousands of social media followers for the store. Be sure to follow along

@pawspetboutique to see latest product arrivals and snapshots from adorable clients (including Michelle and Larry’s own pups).

“Our clients are a part of our family at Paws,” says Larry. “We become familiar with the dogs, too, when they come to visit. We learn about the pets, what products they enjoy, what their pet-parents might like to see in the store, as well as get a snapshot of what the community is looking for.”

“We thrive on building strong ties with the community, not just to support Paws, but to enhance the overall pet community,” adds Michelle.

Paws Pet Boutique’s new location is ideal for dog owners looking to stroll along the historic Naples City Dock or stop into neighboring pet-friendly restaurants for a bite to eat. Pets are always welcome in-store and are greeted with a complimentary treat on every visit. Michelle and Larry’s hand-picked curation of items adds to the boutique experience, and the pair is just as dedicated to getting to know the pets as they are the owners. The Paws experience is centered around celebrating furry friends and all the joy they bring in a unique and personalized way.

To celebrate both the new store location and Small Business Saturday, Paws 

is set to host a socially-distanced FURever Charm Day , a chance for pet owners to create a keepsake silver charm to celebrate a special bond with beloved pets. Jeweler and animal lover Tracy Menz has teamed up with Paws to create the concept for Paws FURever Charm Day, and will assist in capturing your pet’s nose print or fur texture in a special, non-toxic clay that can then be used to create a unique silver charm. The process takes minutes, and results in the owner’s choice of a nose print charm or a fur-textured heart charm that will be cherished forever.

The event will take place Saturday, November 28th . Appointments will be scheduled to ensure comfortable spacing for people and pets and can be made by contacting Paws at

239-631-8122. The boutique will continue to celebrate the new location with fun and festive happenings throughout the month of November and the holiday season.  

Thanks Wave Naples! We look forward to being part of the downtown Naples community and welcoming locals and tourists to Paws new pet boutique shop by the City Dock. Hope to see you soon!

Cheers, the Crew at Paws

Two huge mums and pumpkins filled the back seat of my car, as I headed toward Maryland Avenue in Annapolis to prepare for Fallfest. It was a beautiful day, and the dream to open a pet boutique was about to come true that weekend. Inspired by my feisty Jack Russell and tabby cat, the idea was to create a space where people could come together to celebrate life with their companion animals in a shop -- and in the community.

Fast forward 21 years, I'm driving to 12th Ave S in downtown Naples, 

Florida to open the doors to a new home for this small business we named Paws pet boutique. Thanks to so 

many extraordinary people along the way, the journey between the 2 car rides exceeded all expectations. Taking a quick ride down memory lane, I think of the many dog-friendly events Paws hosted to benefit a variety of animal charities... Lots of Ben's Dog-friendly Boat Cruises benefiting Animal Legal Defense Fund (rain or shine -- we certainly had both!) --- Yappy Hours/'Canines & Cocktails for Cause' on many a Friday night  --- 'Wag & Wine' summer series at Great Frogs Winery --- Halloween 'Click & Treat' Photo Days with Red Leash Pet Photography --- Fall Dog Fashion Shows and even 'Crabtowne Canines' Parade Marches with our pups and Dogwood Acres Pet Retreat crew. 

The memories run deep thanks to the many people who supported our small business and joined our Paws community over the years. Grateful we were given the opportunity to raise thousands of dollars for a variety of charities -- Animal Legal Defense Fund, SPCA of Anne Arundel County and Lab Rescue to name a few.

While the dog-friendly, charitable events are entwined in our Paws philosophy, being a spot where people can bring their pets for a happy shopping experience has been equally important. We love helping find something special that celebrates dogs, cats and the bond we share with them. From our manual cash register and newsletter snail mailings (we folded each one ourselves!) in 1999 to a small business with an online pet boutique, email newsletters and daily social media post updates, a lot has changed (including my natural hair color☺). However, our philosophy to make a difference remains the same (I'm still married to my business partner, Larry)!

Thanks to all who are part of our Paws community, wherever you live!  Let's see where year number 22 takes us all, and work on making more happy memories together. Come see Gracie, me, Larry and Tracy in our new digs if you're down this way.

Thank YOU for supporting our dream, and cheers to a new Paws year!

With gratitude, 

Michelle

p.s. Thanks for voting us Best Pet Boutique in Annapolis multiple years. We'll never forget the honor. 

Thanks to Red Leash Pet Photography for the photos below from Ben's Waterfront Bash and Cruise.

Steps from the water, we loved having our pet boutique nestled in the heart of historic Annapolis, Maryland for almost 20 years. There's something comfortable about being in an old, waterfront neighborhood. We're excited to share Paws pet boutique has new digs downtown Naples (coming soon), surrounded by locally-owned, dog-friendly restaurants and shops. Seeing the Naples City Dock from Paws front window isn't bad either! Join us in embracing a lifestyle that includes walking, biking, shopping and dining alfresco with pups. Let's explore all the ways dogs love Naples! 

Paws continues to offer an amazing collection of unique dog collars, dog cakes/bakery treats, organic catnip toys and hand-selected goods for you - including handmade dog mugs, silver jewelry, chainsaw-carved wooden dogs, apparel and fun dog and cat artwork. As a locally owned and operated small business, our focus has always been on making our clients' experience extraordinary (that includes those with more than 2 feet!) and offering reasonably priced pet goods that brighten the day. Dogs are always welcomed with fresh water and a complimentary treat. 

We love our neighbors in Crayton Cove! Before we moved to Naples Florida, we always made a point to stop in this little neighborhood enclave of local businesses. Now you'll be able to visit Paws pet boutique here and grab a bite to eat at one of the dog-friendly restaurants. Head next door for dinner at Chez Boet, a cozy, chic bistro serving market-inspired French classics. Step across the street to Bleu Provence, for a fine dining experience at this Wine Spectator Grand Award Winning French Restaurant. Looking for lunch or something a little more casual? Right on the water is The Dock Restaurant, serving the community since 1976. There's something for everyone here, whether you're looking for lunch, dinner, happy hour or Sunday brunch - and you can't beat the view! To round out your visit, don't miss Random Acts of Art, a delightfully, interesting shop offering a collection of contemporary American Craft from jewelry, pottery, glass, furniture and unique cards. Everything is hand-selected by the owner, who is happy to provide details on each piece. Yes, all these businesses are dog-friendly. Bring your well-behaved pooch and make it into an outing. We can't wait to open in September 2020!

Look forward to seeing you! If you're on Third Street at Tommy Bahamas, simply walk out the door and keep walking straight down 12th Avenue South. Paws pet boutique is on the left before you reach Naples City Dock. Our address is 759 12th Avenue South. Parking is available in front of Paws, as well as in a private lot behind the building. Give us a ring at 239-631-8122, if we can assist or answer any questions.

We are following CDC guidelines, thoroughly cleaning and offering hand-sanitizer at the door. As always, we offer curb-side pick-up and shipping options. If you prefer shopping online or can't stop by, enjoy surfing www.pawspetboutique.com with pick-up and shipping options at checkout. Make today count and make a tail wag!

With gratitude,

Your Paws Crew

Ben was bigger than life and touched many a visitor in our Paws Annapolis pet boutique. Today, Paws shop dog Gracie continues to inspire and sprinkle happiness in our Paws Naples pet boutique. Paws pet boutique is more than just a small business, it's a passion and commitment to making a difference one animal and/or person at a time. It's about living your best life with your companion animals.

Please stop in Paws and for a fun experience with your 

pet. Time flies so remember to take that extra dog walk, play fetch a little longer and call someone who you've been thinking about recently. 

As Thanksgiving approaches us in 2019, we are thankful and ready to make this holiday season the best it can be. Over the last 20 years we have curated a unique selection of pet supplies and pet lover gifts - many of them created by other small businesses. We'd thrive on helping clients find that perfect gift to celebrate that dog, cat and/or person in their lives. Gift wrapping is always complimentary and we love to ship. Call, click or come by for a visit. We are truly grateful for our clients. Let us know if we can help make your day count.

Thank you. Love your pets.

Thank you for making a dream come true!

When looking back on working at Paws pet boutique the last 20 years, we feel deep gratitude. For us, it has been more than just a small business offering pet gifts and supplies. It's been a passion where we can work to make a difference in our town, create a pet community and support animal charities dear to our hearts. Through this journey we never expected to meet so many exceptional people and pets, make lifelong friends and feel even more passionate about animals. It has been life changing. 

Shift in Direction

"If we don't change, we don't grow. If we don't grow, we aren't really living." - Gail Sheehy

While Annapolis will always hold a special place in our hearts and a lifetime of memories, we are starting a new chapter and heading in a new direction. Paws pet boutique is changing latitudes and relocating to Naples, Florida. Same business philosophy, just a different spot. Please visit! We'd be honored and thrilled.

A Look Back

Shortly after the doors opened to our pet boutique on Maryland Avenue in 1999, we hosted our first dog-friendly function to benefit the SPCA and the rest is history. We've enjoyed supporting animal charities through events we've hosted on a boat, in a marina, at hotels/restaurants, a local winery and in our back courtyard. Not to mention marching in parades with our dog-friendly group to spread some cheer! Here's a look back through photos...

And so many fun memories in Paws pet boutique...

Thanks to all who were part of our first 20 years. It wouldn't have happened with you. Let's see what the future holds! 

Stay in the Loop

Through email, Paws Facebook and Instagram, we'll stay in touch and give you the inside scoop on life at Paws and our new adventures. And we always look forward to hearing what's new with you and your fur kids! Paws pet boutique online shop will continue to offer unique dog collars and items to brighten everyday life with your pets. Our upcoming specials will be announced in our email messages, so jump on Paws list if you're not already on it. (At the bottom of this page you'll find a spot to add yourself.) Watch for details on our Open House toward the end of May 2019!

With gratitude,

Michelle and Larry

"The greatness of nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated." - Mahatma Gandhi

Over the 20 years we've been in business, a lot has changed and a lot hasn't. A few things to ponder...

When Paws pet boutique started, Amazon was 5 years old and just beginning to expand its services beyond book sales. Who knew today they'd have lockers at Whole Foods and Prime members receive grocery discounts!

In 2004 Facebook arrived on to the scene and Instagram follows in 2010. Talk about a whole new meaning to 'friend'!

Back in 1999, cell phones were just that - a phone. You were lucky if yours flipped closed and included texting capabilities. We have to wait until 2007 for the iPhone to be introduced. Seems almost impossible to imagine life without a phone to take photos and provide fingertip access to finding and buying anything!

Today, we love connecting with pet lovers on Paws Instagram, Paws Facebook and Paws online store. So much to smile about - and when you post a photo of your happy pet with items purchased from Paws, we do a happy dance! (It's not always a pretty dance, but it's a happy one.) Of course we have fun posting pics of our shop dog, Gracie, to keep you up to date with our happenings here too.

Looking back on 2018, we are so grateful for our loyal clients and humbled to be voted in 'What's Up?' Magazine as offering the "Best Pet Products" and named "Best Pet Store" in the Readers Choice Awards by 'The Capital Gazette' Newspaper. We love our clients and this was that 'extra-biscuit-in-the-jar' feeling for us! 

The year brought fun, new dog and cat collars, coffee mugs, pet signs, dog people baseball hats and of course treats and toys to offer. This past year we seemed to fit more dogs with harnesses, which we love to do. We all know walking with your dog is great exercise and a fabulous way to bond with your best friend.

Maryland Comptroller, Peter Franchot, and Annapolis Mayor, Gavin Buckley, included Paws pet boutique as a stop in their Shop Local campaign, which was certainly a 2018 highlight. Of course Paws dog-friendly charitable events continued to be a integral part of our business and mission, which raised over $7,000 for animal non-profits. 

Looking forward in 2019. Our personalized client service is just important today as it was in 1999 and we're truly passionate about making everyday count with pets. Offering unique, U.S. made products by small businesses remains a priority. Free shipping on online orders over $125 continues.  We welcome your feedback on things you love and/or areas we could improve upon. Send us an email at earsup@pawspetboutique.com with any suggestions to evolve Paws. If you'd like to stay in the loop and receive our monthly emails with updates and events, scroll to the bottom of this page and sign up. 

Lastly, my Mom always said, "You'll never know unless you ask." 

We'd love your help in expanding our Paws community on Social Media and through our Website. Invite your animal-loving friends to follow Paws on Facebook or Instagram and check out www.pawspetboutique.com. Thank you! 

“Every time you spend money, you’re casting a vote for the kind of world you want.” – Anna Lappé, Author and Educator.

It has become increasingly popular to deviate from shopping at large retailers that are often impersonal and supply many of the same products as the competitor next door. While straying away, many consumers have found themselves greeted by local small businesses.

These small businesses offer a broad range of unparalleled products, and here are the reasons people are drawn to shopping local.

Uniqueness

When someone visits a new town, the first thing they do when they get home is tell their friends what they did while on vacation. If they start with “I shopped at all of the same stores we go to at the mall every weekend at home,” their friends will have already stopped listening. One-of-a-kind stores offer clients a one-of-a-kind experience, make up the individuality of the town and get people excited to share their encounters. They make the client want to come back.

Client awareness & engagement (the client has a say)

When small businesses know their clients, they know what their clients like, what they use and how often they need it. This knowledge allows the business to easily update their inventory and accommodate based on the needs of their clients. Shopping local also allows for conversation regarding what changes and new products clients want to see, giving power to the business to make those changes. Any time Paws Pet Boutique doesn’t have an item in stock that a client is requesting, they will order it immediately and have it ready as soon as possible to stress their dedication.

Field expertise & diversity

To compete with national companies, those who work at local businesses must be experts in their field and strong advocates for what they are selling. Small business owners truly believe they are offering the best quality items in their stores and work to inform their clients so they share this belief. Therefore, many small business employees go the extra mile to make sure their client buys what will benefit their needs and leaves the store satisfied every time.

It’s common for small businesses to supply locally made products that are not typically sold in national retail stores. Paws provides the work of many local artists and products made in the U.S. including prints, coasters and mugs. Local stores also often have products specific to their location. Due to the proximity of Paws to the waterfront and Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, shoppers can find toys, magnets, unique dog collars and leashes with designs relating to the this historic seaside town. Small businesses select their products based on both their own interests and the interests of those in their community.

Community outreach

Small businesses often donate to local nonprofits, organizations and events to show their support and help enrich their community. These groups tend to be clients of the small business, forming a full circle of community support. This summer, Paws is partnering with another local business, Dogwood Acres Pet Retreat, to sponsor an event series to support charities and raise awareness. Each event offers raffle prizes where 100% of the proceeds are donated to the event’s featured charity. The restaurant holding the event also donates a portion of their sales during the event to the charity. Community outreach like this is a way to spread appreciation for and understanding of different causes supported by local businesses.

Just remember… “Every time you spend money, you’re casting a vote for the kind of world you want.”

Next time you find yourself wanting to buy something new for yourself or someone you know, think about the experience you want to have and what you want to support.

Of course bow tie collars make dogs look irresistibly dapper and a floral pink collar can make a bold girly statement! Unique dog collars are a fun way to share a little personality, but it's super important the collar you select is also comfortable and functional. 

Here are tips on how to find the perfect dog collar.

THE FIT

Your pup's dog collar should fit snug but not too tight. If it's too loose you risk the chance of it getting caught on something. 

How to measure for a dog collar:

Place a measuring tape in the center of your dog's neck between the chin and shoulders. Snug the tape so it cannot slip over your pup's head. If you can comfortably slip 2 fingers between the measuring tape (or collar) and your dog, that's the perfect fit! If you don't have a flexible measuring tape, use a string and measure it after you have the right size.

Determining the width of the collar is somewhat a matter of preference as well as taking into account neck length and body build. You'll find collars in 1/2" to 2+" widths on the market. 

Bran, a growing puppy shown in the image above, is wearing a 3/4" wide buoy dog collar and Charlie is wearing a 1" wide star collar .

While there's quite a bit of overlap due to varying dog builds and neck lengths, here's the general weight guideline we use at our dog boutique to start the decision making process:

• 1/2" wide collar for pups under 10 lbs
• 5/8" wide for dogs 8 to 20 lbs. 
• 3/4" wide for dogs 10 to 45 lbs.
• 1" wide for dogs 16 lbs. and up
• 1 1/4" wide for dogs 25 lbs and up 
• 2+" wide for dogs 75 lbs and up

Ideally the collar should not be too bulky so your dog can move and sleep comfortably. If your dog doesn't wear a harness for walking and you are deciding between 2 widths, choose the wider option. More surface contact with your dog's neck when pressure is applied is better. Often small collars are available in 2 widths where the dog's build plays a more significant role in the decision. 

If you're interested in finding the right dog harness for walking or training your pup, click here for more details on the difference between dog harnesses.

THE FUNCTION

Collars close with a quick release buckle, standard peg with holes or a slip style closure. Here's the differences...

Quick release buckle collars secure when you press the two sides together and release when you simultaneously press the two outside tabs. The benefit of this style is that the collar can be precisely adjusted to fit your dog's neck as well as the ability to remove and secure collar easily when desired. Make sure the buckle is durable with a high pull strength like the ones carried at Paws pet boutique. Additionally, never use a cat collar to walk your dog as the buckles on a kitty collar are designed to open when tugged.

Dobermans, Panzer and Cece, are wearing 1/1/4" wide quick release buckle crab collars, as well as Halsey who is wearing a Navy collar.

Buckle style collars feature a peg with pre-determined holes and function like a belt. Sizing is limited to the available holes, so make sure the collar fits securely within holes available. Ideally the excess collar should fit securely under a strap or ring on the collar. Very secure.

Martingale collars or a soft-choke collar, feature an additional loop that is added to the collar. When a leash is attached to the ring secured to this loop, it slides to tighten the collar around the dog's neck. Also known as a "Greyhound" collar, these collars snug up to a point and then stop. This style is very effective for dogs who have necks bigger than their head because the sliding loop ensures the collars doesn't slip off the dog's head! Martingales must be sized each time they are placed over a dog's head and should not be left on when unsupervised. Some find this limited choke collar helpful when training a dog to heel on a leash.

Slip or choke collars feature 2 rings, one for leash attachment and one that slides along the collar and tightens when tugged. Hold the collar in the shape of the letter "P" when placing over your dog's neck. This is a walking collar that some like to use for control and training. Never leave your dog unattended while wearing a choke collar and use it responsibly. We do not recommend using a slip collar on dogs under 6 months. Our preference is a front-ring harness if you are seeking control on walks. We find them to be very comfortable and effective.

The ring sewn or linked on the collar should be large enough to allow you to attach your pet ID tag and connect a leash. Look for a solid cast metal ring securely fastened to the collar. Remember, a current ID tag with cell phone number(s) can help your dog find their way back home if they become lost. 

Dogs love to have fun, so consider finding a machine washable collar too! Whatever style you select, please never use a chewed or compromised collar for walking your dog... even if it still looks cute.

THE FASHION

Now that you know the basics, have fun selecting from lots of unique dog collar designs that share your dog's personality and/or yours! From coastal sea creatures and boats to checked dog bow ties , there are so many creative designs from which to choose. We always recommend finding one that celebrates the bond and love you have for your best friend. Dogs enrich life so enjoy the moments together. Life is too short not to wear the right collar.

"We will never be the same as we were before this loss, but are ever so much better for having had something so great to lose."

I read it several times so it really sunk in. How true.

It may be a person or a companion animal who provided strength, direction, love, passion, levity, companionship among other things in life. Simply put, they made your life and you better. When you lose someone so special, the hole left behind is deep. Everyone loves and grieves differently, but over time we can come to realize that we were fortunate to be enriched by their presence. 

If the bond wasn't so special and strong, the pain of the loss wouldn't be so numbing and sad.

The unexpected loss of my constant companion Jack Russell Ben on Thanksgiving 2015 was devastating and I know I will never be the same. Today I'm trying to learn how I am better for having had him in my life. 

I like to think he selected Thanksgiving to teach me my last lesson on thankfulness. As I continue to process the loss today, I also realize what I have gained. This one dog heightened my level of passion to make a positive difference. My involvement with the animal welfare movement increased and allowed me to meet so many amazing people. I became especially active with Animal Legal Defense Fund who rescued Ben along with 300+ other dogs from an unthinkable environment with a hoarder. Thanks to Ben, we made a difference together. He touched many people in his journey through our fundraiser events and in Paws pet boutique as our store dog. Just last month someone stopped in the store asking if Ben was there so they could visit with him. He was one-of-a-kind and I truly was lucky to have him in my life as a soulmate for the time I did. There is no doubt he made me a better person.

Paws pet boutique continues to hold events to support ALDF.September 30, 2016 we partner with the Loews Annapolis Hotel to host a dog-friendly happy hour, Canines & Cocktails for a Cause. Generous businesses have donated prizes for the raffle and auction that support Ben's Fund. If you're reading this and the event hasn't happened yet, we hope you can join us at 5:30 pm.

Additionally, Paws pet boutique donates $1 from every box of"Give" dog treatsto Ben's Fund. Choose from 3 yummy flavors. The treats make a unique and perfect dog gift too. They are of course heart-shaped.

As I continue to work through this loss, I can see I am better for having the opportunity to have one of the funniest, engaging and loving Jack Russells in my life for 10 short years. If you are feeling the loss of a loved one, I hope you reach out to your family and friends as you grieve. Loss is hard. My hope is that by sharing this I help someone. 

"We will never be the same as we were before this loss, but are ever so much better for having had something so great to lose."