Pet Thrift: The Hidden Gem Where Spoiling Your Pet is Smart, Fun—and Heartwarming

Who says you need to spend a fortune to spoil your best friend?

At Pet Thrift, the HBSPCA’s charming little store tucked inside our location at 245 Dartnall Road in Hamilton, every purchase is a win—for your pet, your wallet, and animals in need.

Whether you're on the hunt for a new toy, treats, pet essentials, or a one-of-a-kind find, Pet Thrift is a cozy, feel-good destination that combines the joy of treasure hunting with the impact of supporting animal welfare. Every dollar spent at Pet Thrift goes directly into vital HBSPCA programs, helping us keep pet ownership affordable and accessible for everyone.

A Store Full of Stories—and Deals

Pet Thrift is more than just a place to shop—it’s a place where love for pets shines in every corner. Much of the store is stocked with donations from generous pet suppliers, including high-quality goods, gently used gear, and sometimes quirky or limited-edition items you won’t find anywhere else.

Harvest, our Manager of Donor Relations, knows this all too well. She regularly pops in for supplies for her long-haired dachshund, Leo—but also for the unexpected treasures.

“I found a Canada Pooch jacket for him—it’s absolutely adorable,” she says. “There’s always something new. It’s a bit dangerous because I shop here nearly every week. But it’s fun—and I know I’m supporting a cause I care deeply about.”

And she’s not alone. On one of her tours with a donor, the visitor left with an armful of finds. “They couldn’t believe the prices—and that volunteers help run the shop!” Harvest adds.

Meet Smelly, the Fashion-Forward Feline

Then there’s Ruby, our Youth Projects Coordinator. Her orange cat, Smelly, isn’t just any cat—he has 25 toes, a wardrobe, and an appetite for fashion (and fun).

Ruby calls Pet Thrift “her new addiction”, and Smelly doesn’t mind. In fact, he waits by the door when she leaves, knowing she’s likely to return with treats.

“One of my best finds was a huge cat tree,” Ruby laughs. “I hadn’t even set it down before Smelly was on the top level. And the cat grass planter? He’s obsessed.”

Smelly is, as Ruby puts it, “a cat in dog’s clothing.” He loves wearing bandanas (one’s been on for weeks), has a stuffed pickle squeaky toy (technically a dog toy),and shares “matching dinners” with Ruby thanks to vac-sealed cat treats.

The most chaotic joy? Catnip bubbles.

“It’s a bubble wand, like for kids—but filled with catnip. The wind carries them, and Smelly goes wild chasing them through the yard. It’s hilarious.”

Smart Shopping, Safe Pets

For Hannah, our Corporate Partners and Grants Lead, shopping at Pet Thrift is all about finding smart, practical solutions for her five-year-old cocker spaniel, Cooper—and keeping him comfy, safe, and happy.

From an elevated outdoor bed for lazy summer deck days, to a special bowl that keeps his long ears dry during mealtime, Pet Thrift has helped Hannah tick off her entire pet care checklist—and then some.

“I even found a hands-free leash that clips to my waist for our walks, and a seatbelt harness for car rides,” Hannah says. “But the most important find for us is Zylkene, a supplement that helps Cooper with his anxiety. It’s a game changer during fireworks season.”

Hannah also gives tours to corporate partners, many of whom donate new stock or come in on volunteer days. It's just another way the store stays well stocked—and the shelves constantly refreshed.

More Than a Store: A Mission

What sets Pet Thrift apart isn’t just the incredible savings or the sense of community—it’s that your purchases help reduce waste, support animal care, and create real change.

Donated items are first used for animals in our care and in the community. Anything extra is made available to shoppers, keeping usable goods out of landfills and into loving homes. Whether it’s a bag of treats, a crate, or kitty litter, you’re making a difference with every item you buy.

And with weekly specials, rotating deals, and a brand-new loyalty program, there’s always a reason to come back. Loyalty members can save up to 75% off—and membership is free!

Store Hours

  • Monday – Wednesday: 8 am – 5 pm
  • Thursday & Friday: 8 am – 7 pm
  • Saturday: 10 am - 3 pm

Join Harvest, Ruby, Hannah—and Smelly, Leo, and Cooper—and make Pet Thrift your new favourite spot. Whether you're spoiling your furry friend, trying something new, or just browsing for fun, one thing’s for sure:

You’ll leave with something special.

And maybe a little tail wag to thank you for it.

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