Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
This is our 36th year in business in Rockville.
What is your primary product or service?
We are the source for everything Bird and Small Animal and supplies for all your other pets. Our live animals are all locally raised with our goal being to have each one live the longest possible happy life. With our YouTube videos on the Animal Exchange channel we have widened our outreach to provide information and outreach to pet lovers everywhere.
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
Growing up in a no-pet apartment in New York, I treasured any animal contacts available from zoos to farms to bird watching. Majoring in Ornithology at Cornell U. provided a comprehensive background in birds and other animals. After a 20 year break raising children, the hands on opportunity of pets was irresistible and so after 2 years at another store, Animal Exchange opened August 5, 1979.
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
The annual Blessing of the Animals sets the tone for the year. Held on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend at 4:30 ( May 22, 2015 this year ) Catholic, Protestant and Jewish clerics join us for this ecumenical event each year.
We care about your pets and want the best companion animal experience for all. Our locally raised pets are the best!
How many locations do you have and do you have plans to expand?
We do the best because we will only ever have one location to focus on.
Provide detailed directions to your location
We are in Rt 355 which is Hungerford Drive in this part of Rockville. We are next to a Giant grocery store and behind Popeyes..
What type of payments do you accept?
Cash Checks Master Card and Visa. Cash sales receive a 2% discount.
Which areas do you service?
Customers come from the Rockville area and far beyond because of our knowledge and reputation
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
Ruth, Laura Grace and Matt
What are your hours of operation?
10 -8 Monday and Thursday
10 -6 Wednesday, Friday and Saturday
11 -3 Sunday
What is the best compliment anyone can give you?
Your animals look so happy.