I always want to support small businesses, so when I was in Medford to pick up my new puppy, I initially chose Mini Pet Mart instead of PetSmart*. I hate to say that I was disappointed, but I left empty-handed. Like many smaller pet stores, they can carry only so much merchandise.
The staff (and the customers!) were surprisingly easy to talk to, and I felt I could hang out there all evening. Lots of good vibes.
Since I was there for only one night, I don't know how easy it is to order what you need, although I've never had a problem with smaller stores in the past. My impression was that they would be happy to do so.
One thing that I found amusing is that they sell cigarettes, too. I wouldn't be surprised if the bulk of their income results from these products. (It's not a bad business decision, really. Tobacco sells and there are always customers for it. I'm sure it can tide them over if sales of pet products slump.)
* For what it's worth, PetSmart didn't have what I required, either. read more