We never thought there would be a global pandemic that would span months, putting many out of work and destroying the global economy. Amidst one of the most challenging situations any of us have ever faced, we have seen our grooming community come together and support each other. We are so grateful to be a part of such a formidable community. Each and every day, you inspire us to continue our mission. Our mission is to take care of people that take care of pets.

During these uncertain times, we wanted to do something to try to give back. We decided that we would reach out to our amazing community to hear your stories. We asked that you submit your stories about how you have been affected during COVID-19. Each week we will choose one winner to feature on our blog and send a $150 gift certificate that they can use when this is all over.

Thank you to Sara Claxton for submitting her story to us on Facebook. See how COVID-19 has affected Sara below.

?My family and I have been in quarantine since March 11th, after my 2-year-old son w?as sent to the ICU with respiratory failure due to pneumonia and bronchitis. He was tested for 14 of the most common viruses which came back negative, his sample was then sent for testing for COVID-19. We are awaiting test results. Shortly after being released from the hospital I got word that the grooming department at the vet clinic I work at will be suspended until further notice. I?ve worked for Eastlake Veterinary services for 7 years and am on my 10th year in the grooming industry. I?ve used Ryan?s Pet Supplies since my early days and have always loved the variety of products and supplies. I?m a married mother of two and am spending my days tending to my toddler and 5-year-old who are still spiking fevers and having respiratory symptoms. We are staying optimistic about the outcome of this pandemic and how it will turn out for my family. Thank you for the opportunity to share our story here.?

Sara, we are so grateful that you shared your story with us.

We reached out Sara to inform her that her story had moved us at Ryan?s Pet Supplies so much that she was the recipient of this week?s $150 gift certificate. We inquired about her son ? we were very worried! Here is a quick update from her on her story:

?What a pleasant surprise! Thank you so much! Thankfully we are all on the tail end of this and after numerous calls to the children?s hospital I was finally able to get the status of the COVID-19 test results which came out negative! We?ve all had to go through a round of antibiotics for ear infections that have resolved as well. We are still at home practicing social distancing due to the governor of Colorado?s stay at home order to slow the spread, and my mother who lives in a mother in-law suite in my basement is now sick with whatever virus we?ve had. We are keeping a close eye on her and trying to use this time to be productive doing spring cleaning and other chores. My 5-year-old is starting his remote learning today with his kindergarten class, so we are navigating that now as well. I?m due to return to work April 17th as long as we can slow the spread of this pandemic. I miss all my furry clients and my grooming studio. I?m home grooming my own dogs right now and it is not ideal. I?m extremely appreciative of Ryan?s Pet Supplies for their generosity during this unfamiliar, scary period of time.?

With all the negativity in the world, we were glad that this story had a positive end!

?Wow I can?t thank you enough, this makes me so happy during such a gloomy time. Ryan?s Pet Supplies is the best!?

Actually, Sara, YOU are the best. As well as the community that we are a part of. We thank you for your sharing your strength with us.

Thank you to everyone that shared their stories with us. We will continue to choose a story every week to feature on our blog and send $150 gift certificate to. Please continue to submit your stories to us through email [email protected] or send us a message on Instagram or Facebook.

How COVID-19 is affecting Ryan?s Pet Supplies

Our warehouse has been closed to the public to protect our warehouse staff as well as our customers. Our staff members picking and pulling orders are practicing social distancing as well as wearing gloves and masks to ensure your orders remain safe.

Our local friends can still place orders online for free curbside pick-up. Once you arrive at Ryan?s Pet Supplies, call 1-800-525-7387 and an employee will bring your order directly to your vehicle. No need to even step foot outside! Please have your confirmation email ready for verification. 

Additionally, we have all our office staff working from home as well as some of our customer service staff. If you call in to place an order and you hear children or pets in the background, please be understanding. The health and safety of our employees is of the utmost importance to us. We really appreciate your patience during this crisis.

Finally, our repair shop remains open and is taking orders to continue to service you and your equipment. We are still accepting shears and blades for sharpening as well as clippers and dryers for maintenance.

We know that this current climate is affecting everyone, not just groomers. However, we are still so thankful to be a part of this community. Your stories of perseverance inspire us to continue our mission to take care of people that take care of pets.

Please continue to send us your stories by sharing them with [email protected]. You can also DM them to us on Instagram or send us a message or a comment on Facebook.

Stay tuned for our next Community Outreach Blog next week. Until then ? stay safe, Groomers!