More Than Just Fins and Feathers

Fin and Feather of Oneonta

By John Gerardi (Oneonta, NY)--

Sarah Bettiol and her husband opened up Fin and Feather, a tropical pet store, about a year ago.  Since then, they have gotten more popular since their opening, getting business mainly from families with kids between the ages of 5 and 16.  Sarah says that their busiest time of the year had been winter when she speculated that families would be home more often and want a new pet to keep them company.

Sarah had wanted to open up a pet shop ever since she was little.

"I started working at a pet shop when I was 16 and I knew I wanted to own one some day." -Sarah Bettiol

Mixing Business with Pleasure

For the Bettiols, however, it is not all fun and games.  They not only take care of all of the animals, but also all of the financial aspects of the store as well.  Their success thus far is completely independent and they are proud of this.  Their passion is what sets them aside from other franchised pet stores.  They love their animals and look for the best possible homes for them to permanently reside in.  While in the store, they treat each animal as if it's their own, whether it's a huge iguana or a tiny mouse.

Expanding Their Horizons

The Bettiols are looking to expand soon, hopefully bringing in cats and dogs.  Their two year plan is already in effect for this production.  The Bettiols are determined and working hard every day to continue to improve their business in every way that they can!