Interview with Tina Wong, Pioneer and Proprietor of Molly’s Pup-Purr-ee
I love supporting small businesses. When I searched online for a locally owned pet store in the Walnut Creek area, where I visit my mother-in-law frequently, I was shocked that there were none. I expanded my search and found Molly’s Pup-Purr-ee in Danville. When I went to visit, I immediately thought it was very cute and fun. Lucky for me, Tina Wong, the owner of the shop, happened to be there.
I introduced myself and we had a lovely conversation about her sweet pet shop, teeming with personally curated, high-quality accessories, toys, and treats for fur babies and their parents. As it turns out, Tina is a local pioneer in pet shop boutiques in the SF Bay Area, and I bet, nationwide. I was inspired by her early ethical stance and struck by her modesty; naturally I asked if she’d be willing to do an interview with me!
Cute storefront sign with an illustration of Molly, the inspiration and namesake of the pet shop.
Molly's Pup-Purr-ee lives in a cute stand alone building in downtown Danville, CA on Hartz Avenue
On your website you share, “Molly’s Pup-Purr-ee began in 1996 as an act of love for my dog Molly, a perfect Welsh Terrier. After experiencing a bond of unconditional love, peace and joy that Molly was giving to me, I realized that there were many others like me who valued their pet in the same way and who wanted only the best for their best friend.”
Tell me about Molly, the namesake of your pet shop.
Molly was the sweetest welsh terrier. Very smart and almost human like.
Do you have any pups currently?
I have Maggie a 9 year old mini beagle and Bodhi, a 4 year old rhodesian ridgeback.
You've been in business for 28 years. In our initial conversation, you mentioned that you were sourcing ethically made, socially responsible, and high quality products for pets and their parents long before anyone was thinking that way. What prompted you to act upon these values?
In my previous career I was a buyer for a department store. I worked with factories overseas. From sourcing with the vendors, we were very aware of the factories who used child labor and sub par materials. When I started Molly's Pup-Purr-ee in 1996 there wasn't a lot of awareness about inferior ingredients and materials. Customers had to be educated on the importance of using only high quality ingredients and materials.
What are some of the changes you've seen in the way people relate to and treat their dogs and cats from the time you first opened your doors until now?
When I first started, my customer base were primarily single people or younger couples because they treated their dogs like their kids. After about 3 years, things shifted and dogs definitely were considered to be part of the family.
What is one of the most popular items that you sell for pups?
Molly's is known for the vast assortment of collars and leads. We carry collars for 2 lb teacup dogs up to 120 lb giant breeds. All are unique: leather, fabric, swarovski crystals, and all made in the U.S. or Canada.
All the pretty collars and leashes! And look at that line up of Welsh Terrier stuffed toys 🐶
What is one of the most underrated items that you offer and think pet parents should know about?
Customers underestimate the value in purchasing a high quality bed. The beds we offer are assembled in Canada and are made of upholstery grade fabric from the U.S.A and Europe. They are machine washable and last for years. Plus they are available in fabrics that compliment the house. Many people buy beds that are made in China and the beds fall apart. I've had customers tell me that they will buy 3 beds in a year because they're either worn out or the the dog chews it up. Not only is it costing more in the long run it's also causing more garbage for the landfills.
What trends, if any, do you see for pets and their parents in the world of retail?
Pet parents are appreciative of having a boutique to see fun, high quality items for their dogs. Doggie parents have fun bringing their dogs in to shop. It's much easier to try collars, harnesses, jackets and clothing on the dog in person. It's a fun field trip for all!
What do you love about running Molly's Pup-Purr-Ee?
I feel very fortunate that my shop has continued to thrive for 28 years. I have very loyal customers who trust me to supply only the highest quality merchandise. They know that I only carry items that I would give to my own dogs. I appreciate my customers as I know that they only want the best for their dogs.
Thank you so much for your time Tina. It’s always inspiring to connect with another Asian-American woman business owner in the pet professional field!
Molly’s Pup-Purr-ee: “A fun shop filled with UNIQUE pet toys and accessories for dogs, cats and gifts for the people who love them! Our pets give us so much love and companionship… don’t they deserve the best?”
Follow Molly’s Pup-Purr-ee on Instagram and Facebook. Check out Tina’s shop when you’re in the Danville area and let her know you heard about her from me! Her shop is pup-friendly of course!
Is your pup reactive or anxious out in public? Want to be able to take them to Molly’s Pup-Purr-ee and elsewhere? Let’s chat!
