Filling a 'desperate need,' Lucky Pets to Open in St. Michael

Julie Donwen is fulfilling her dream, and doing something she thinks is also "so desperately needed in the area."

Donwen of St. Michael, who grew up on a farm, has a background in working with animals and has been a veterinary technician, is running the show leading up to the opening of Lucky Pets.

Located at 12446 42nd St. NE in St. Michael, the new shop is almost ready to open to the public.

Set to officially open its doors this week, the St. Michael pet store also offers a full dog grooming salon, dog and cat boarding, dog day care, and a self-service dog wash.

Check Lucky Pets on Facebook for a confirmed opening date this week.

Donwen, who is excited to be continuing her lifelong passion for animals, calls it a "one-stop shop" for pet care and health.

"Everything from the front to the back has been a big need in this area," Donwen, director of operations, said. "I've been waiting for something like this to come around in our community."

She said the work is something she's wanted to do for many years, and when the job came up, she jumped on the opportunity.

"It was everything I've ever wanted to do," she said of working with animals in this capacity. "Putting this together for the last few months has been quite an endeavor."

Donwen is working on the last of the inventory and pricing, and grooming manager and St. Michael native Heather Reinking is putting the final touches on the grooming facility.

The facility also houses indoor and outdoor play areas — two acres outside — for future play time and classes. Donwen predicts the dog day care will be a big hit.

"Everyone around here has a dog — you can't hardly throw a rock without hitting a house with a dog," she said.

Donwen said since the store is independent, and not a chain, it's a good fit for the area.

"We want to make it a relationship rather than just a shopping trip," she said.

Donwen is excited to provide local pet retail and care, and eliminate the need for families to travel 15-30 minutes to pick up pet products. She said in her personal experience with her own pets, the business will serve the community well in many areas.

"It's going to be awesome," Donwen said. "We’re just excited to get our doors open and have community come in and see what we have to offer."

An online Lucky Pets store is also coming next year.

To get updates on which day doors will open, Donwen encourages the community to check Lucky Pets on Facebook or call 763-515-3724. 

More information can be found on the Lucky Pets website.