06/07/2026
It’s been a heavy day around here.
One year ago today, we lost Neko.
💔
When she came into our lives, little did she know what big shoes she had to fill. Howie’s name and image are forever a part of Busch Pet Products. Neko was a very tiny bottle baby when we got her, so not only did she have to learn how to be a cat, she had to learn how to be a store cat. Some days were definitely more challenging than others, but everyone was patient and kind, even when she was being a brat.
😬
Her spicy attitude seemed to delight most of our customers, and I’m forever thankful that no one got too upset when she decided to unexpectedly wreak havoc on ankles and arms. She could’ve cared less about dogs, but really seemed to like children, and would often follow them around the store.
She did sometimes allow us to see her sweet side, and if you were patient enough, she would do exactly what you wanted her to do. She was smart as a whip, and picked up on a number of tricks, including high fives. I had been teaching her to ride a skateboard too. She got bored very quickly, however, and that’s when the chaos would begin.
I think we all planned on having a lot more years with her, but the universe had other plans. I cherish the time that I had with her, and I know she was here for me for a reason, but her time on earth was just too brief for me.
Thank you for loving Neko as much as we still do. She will forever be a part of the store’s history, and I’m glad I got the chance to know her and to love her.
