Customer Spotlight: Healthy Paws

Healthy Paws, a boutique-style pet food and supply store in Rapid City, South Dakota, was founded in 2012 by owners Tom and Linda Ingalls and daughter Bailey Stensby. In 2012 the Ingalls’ learned their four-legged family member Ginger suffered from allergies and wanted to find the best solution to make her feel better, as any avid pet-lover would do. Following extensive research, the family discovered that most pet-related allergies could be treated by a proper diet in place of medication. The Ingalls’ searched Rapid City only to find that the area lacked a knowledgeable pet store that offered quality food and supplies. This deficiency, along with Ginger’s allergies, drove the family to open their own specialty pet store, and shortly there after Healthy Paws was established. 

Healthy Paws wanted to set themselves apart from the competition with the understanding that pets are more than companions, they’re family. “Our goal is not only to offer quality pet food and supplies, but be a reliable resource for pet parents while providing amazing customer service,” comments owner Linda Ingalls. The store carries specialty dog and cat foods as well as supplements, toys, first-aid, grooming and dental supplies, in addition to providing a friendly and knowledge-rich experience for customers.

In the five years following its opening, Healthy Paws grew quickly. By 2017 the business had outgrown its space and the Ingalls’ were in a position to expand their business and wanted to own a location rather than lease. The couple reached out to Security First Bank Loan Officer Brett Simons to help come up with a solution. “I wanted to give them the best rate with a low down-payment and knew the SBA 504 Loan Program would be a perfect match,” stated Simons. Owner Linda added, “Security First Bank was instrumental in getting us the best loan possible. They worked directly with the SBA and made the entire process seamless and painless!”

Things quickly fell into place and Healthy Paws moved into their new space. Following the expansion, the business now enjoys a larger space to display product, an overhead door for deliveries, and the benefit of earning equity in real estate rather than paying a lease. Their continued success led Healthy Paws to win Business of the Year in 2018 at the annual Black Hills Community Economic Development Awards. “I can’t think of a more deserving business to receive this award,” commented Simons.

Healthy Paws is located at 425 Bentley Lane in Rapid City and is open seven days a week. More information can be found by visiting their website at www.healthypawsbh.com.