Mendocino Barkery
Awesome Toys, Togs, and Treats for Your Furry Friends
by Kamala Williams
Mendocino Barkery has changed ownership! Billy Harris and his partner, Nicholas Casagrande, have recently taken on the delightful little pet store across from Alex Thomas Plaza in downtown Ukiah. This pet shop is the perfect place to find high-quality pet supplies and support not only the Barkery but two other local businesses that have products sold in the store.
About a year ago, the previous owners of the building, which also houses Nicholas’ wealth management firm, decided they wanted to sell the building. That meant that a local woman who had run the store for many years would lose her business. Nicholas and Billy decided to buy the building so the woman could keep her job and the business could continue as it had before.
The pair’s ultimate goal for this store is to sell good quality pet food while supporting local businesses. The Barkery offers local pet food from a small business called Rover’s Choice in Humboldt County. They also highlight the Redwood Cheese Board Co., which specializes in charcuterie boards and makes the cutest barkuterie boards, containing delicious treats your furry friends are sure to enjoy.
Billy says, “We really want to create a good sense of community. We love seeing both new customers and returning customers wander into our store. Many people love going to the farmers market on Saturdays to get fresh bread and farm fresh produce, and then come across the street and get fresh food, local treats, and lifestyle gear for their pets.”
Nicholas and Billy also do a few events to further support the community, including discount Wednesdays that allow people who may not be able to afford more expensive pet food to give their products a try. They also work with a local nail trimmer so people can get their pets’ nails done. And they partner with county rescue groups, the Ukiah shelter, and the Humane Society of Inland Mendocino County by hosting adoption days. Billy explains, “We really try to focus on a holistic approach to helping and taking care of Animals.”
The couple loves the philanthropic feel of Mendocino County and how much everyone comes together to support local businesses. After moving here roughly ten years ago, the two fell in love with the landscape and trees of Mendocino County. They relish that feeling of small-town closeness you cannot get in most other places. Billy talks about how blessed he feels to be a part of such a community, not only to support the beautiful people here, but also to sell high-quality food to everyone’s favorite four-legged friends.
Mendocino Barkery is a place of joy with its kind and helpful employees, who are happy to answer questions. Billy and Nicholas are also happy to ‘talk pets,’ as they are proud owners of four adorable pugs: Ella, Choca, Chola, and the eldest, Polly. The Mendocino Barkery family, both human and furry friends alike, welcomes you in. So if you are ever in the area, wish to shop local, or indulge your pet with a tasty treat, be sure to stop by.
Mendocino Barkery
207 W Stephenson St, Ukiah
(707) 463-3644 | mendocinobarkery.com
Open Mon - Fri 11am - 7pm, Sat & Sun 9am - 6pm
Kamala Williams grew up in Mendocino County. A recent graduate from Ukiah High School, she enjoyed writing for the school newspaper and has begun her journey at U.C. Davis studying communications and human rights.
Photos by Kamala Williams