Talk Story with an Advertiser

Providing West Hawai‘i with high quality pet food, treats, toys, and other supplies for dogs, cats, birds, and small animals like bunnies and guinea pigs, Rock Star Pets also boards birds and small animals, and plans to install a selfservice dog wash soon. That’s a huge list of products and services, brought to pet owners by a daughter and mom team, Melissa and Kim Kerr. Melissa shares, “I have always worked with animals. My career has evolved over time but it has always involved animals. After getting my degrees in zoology and psychology, I worked in zookeeping, but eventually made the switch into the pet industry as I found the work more rewarding. I’ve worked in boarding facilities, doggie daycares, and veterinary offices. In 2014, I decided to start my own dog walking and pet sitting business, Rock Star Pets Colorado, which is still thriving in Evergeen. “While I had a strong background in animal care, I knew nothing about running a business. That’s where my mom came in! She worked for years as a paralegal before buying a fabric and craft store, which she owned and operated for 16 years. Kim handles the business so I can focus on the pets, products, and customers.” When Melissa moved to Hawai‘i, Kim and trusted employees continued to run their business in Colorado. While the two women were brainstorming about what they could offer the Kona community, they noted Kona desperately needed an independent pet store, and they had the needed expertise to create it. Having worked extensively with pets in a professional capacity for more than a decade, Melissa built up a familiarity with a wide range of pets and products. She says, “It’s important to me that we don’t carry any food or product that I wouldn’t give to my own pets.” Many of their products, particularly for birds and small animals, cannot be found anywhere else in Hawai‘i, which is why Melissa has a full online store to service all the islands. A huge focus in the store is on pet puzzles, interactive feeders and toys, and other enrichment products, because Melissa recognizes that pets love to be challenged and need to have ways to exercise their brains as well as their bodies. Rock Start Pets also offers locally made treats, accessories, and artwork, and they are always on the lookout for other local products to add. They have gifts for humans, too!

Rock Star Pet Supplies & Gifts 75-5722 Hanama Place, Suite 1100, Kailua-Kona 808.731.5858 rockstarpetshawaii.com