Pets, Supplies, and Outdoor Adventure Gear
Pets, Supplies and Outdoor Adventure Gear
Great Valley’s E’ville Aquatics/Marten’s Outdoors Expands Both Pet Store and Outdoor Retail Area
It’s hard to put a label on Ellicottville Aquatics Pet Store. Located at 4343 South Whalen Road in Great Valley, they’ve gone from being a tiny shop with a few aquariums, to taking over the whole of the old Green Gables Antique store building. They’ve got a lot to offer and ellicottvilleNOW had the chance to discuss all the hard work and new things coming our way with owner Skyler Martens.
Skyler is very proud of what he and his team have built. “It’s hard to believe we’ve been here for seven years,” he told us. “My team is myself, my dad, my shop keep Brandon and a couple other friends. We’ve all put a lot of time and resources into creating the best space possible for our customers to visit and for our animals to call their temporary home.”
FROM LAND TO SEA
The shop carries saltwater fish, freshwater fish, reptiles such as bearded dragons and ball pythons, and small animals including hedgehogs, chinchillas and skinny pigs. Skyler makes sure their space fits them and any growth they might have before they find their forever homes.
“We’re always looking to improve and something is always being upgraded,” explained Skyler. “Most recently our 280-gallon display tank is in the process of being turned into a saltwater tank for semi-aggressive saltwater fish - like Lionfish, puffer fish and sting rays, to name a few. Our reptile habitat is growing and we’ve expanded the enclosures for the other animals to have more free space. Healthy animals make happy pets.”
PET SUPPLIES AND ACCESSORIES
He had a lot to say about the importance of keeping the pet store in tip-top shape. “A lot of people get a bit uneasy about the care that larger retail stores give their animals. In our case, we pride ourselves on our animals’ comfort and health. And we’ll help you find exactly what you a looking for. We offer a more personal shopping experience. We’ve also tried to get our customers more involved. To that end, we’ve made a great new addition.”
Skyler advised that they’ve put in a self-serve dog wash station. Customers can bring their pets in, their own soap (or use what’s provided by the shop) and use the walk-in ramp for the commercialized size tub and give their furry friends a clean-up. Right there in the shop… so handy!
FISHING, HUNTING AND CAMPING
But they don’t just carry pet supplies, food and toys. And they don’t just set up tanks for local businesses. (Have you seen the tank inside Ellicottville Pharmacy? It is beautiful!) This is where Skyler’s vision has transformed to include a second aspect of his business, dubbed Martens Outdoors. They also feature many new sportsman items for the humans that accompany the fur babies. Skyler said, “New camping gear is coming in all the time now - tents, chairs, utensils. We carry a lot of Zippo products - besides lighters, of course - including waterproof matches and fire starters.”
Skyler has also developed a partnership with Brewmate, allowing the shop to carry reusable water bottles, drink cozies, etc.” He went on to say, “We carry the whole line of Dr. Squatch soap, the one you see in commercials on tv all the time. Perfect to take on long outdoor excursions, and they make great gifts or just to take home for yourself.”
The shop is also working on expanding its fishing section and hunting item line-up, not to mention the indoor archery range and certified selection of pistols and firearms. “And we are an official dealer of Broil King equipment, so if you are in need of a grill this summer, we’re the place to come,” said Skyler. Broil King offers over 30 models - from small personal bbqs to large patio bar insert versions. They’re well designed, made in North America, and according to Skyler, are noted for having one of the best warranties on the market.
VIEW PETS AND PRODUCTS ONLINE
Ellicottville Aquatics is more than just an aquarium and pet store; they’ve become a full blown outdoor retailer. The shop is open daily Monday through Friday from 10:00am-5:00pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00am-3:00pm. You can find more about their newest pet arrivals on their Facebook page. For a view of the items for tank upkeep and pet supplies, visit evillpetstore.com. And if you have any questions, call 716-265-2857. Skyler’s team is ready to assist you in all your pet and outdoor adventure needs!
