Cora and Charlie Baker have officially opened the first brick-and-mortar Pet Wants store in Trophy Club, bringing their growing mobile business into a permanent home. The Roanoke-based franchise owners celebrated the milestone with two days of events that reflected their passion for pets, community and nutrition.
The Bakers’ journey with Pet Wants began years ago when their own dog developed troubling health and behavioral issues. After struggling to find a solution, they discovered the company’s small-batch, nutrient-rich food. The transformation they witnessed inspired them to start selling the brand at local markets and fairs. What started as a personal mission soon evolved into a business dedicated to educating pet owners about healthier alternatives.
“This store is about more than pet food,” said Cora Baker, co-owner of Pet Wants Roanoke. “It is about community, education and creating a healthier future for pets and their families. We have seen firsthand how proper nutrition can change a pet’s life, and we want to make that accessible to everyone.”
The grand opening highlighted that mission with two themed events. On the first night, the Bark Bazaar featured local vendors, curated pet products, giveaways and a festive, open-air atmosphere for families and their pets. The following morning, the Leash Cutting Ceremony welcomed neighbors with a ribbon-cutting, rescue animals available for adoption, raffle prizes, and a complimentary lunch. Both gatherings emphasized the Bakers’ commitment to blending commerce with community service.
Inside the new store, customers will find more than shelves of food. Pet Wants offers a variety of small-batch recipes and natural wellness products, designed to promote long-term health and happiness for dogs and cats. By providing options free from artificial additives and fillers, the Bakers hope to raise awareness about the link between nutrition and overall well-being.
Their decision to establish a permanent storefront reflects a larger trend within the pet industry. As more consumers demand transparency and higher standards in pet nutrition, businesses like Pet Wants are carving out space where education and trust are as important as the products themselves.
For the Bakers, the opening marks the next step in a journey that began with personal concern for their own pet. With the support of loyal customers who have followed them from markets to fairs, the new Trophy Club store represents both growth and a deeper commitment to the community. As they look ahead, they see their shop as a place where neighbors come together to share knowledge, strengthen bonds and give their pets the healthiest possible lives.