Los Gatos' Bow Wowzer, Purrsnickety Closing, Owners Retiring

The owners of the iconic pet stores Bow Wowzer and Purrsnickety in downtown Los Gatos have announced plans to close their popular business June 15.

Ellen and William Wayker said Wednesday the stores, both located at 100 No. Santa Cruz Ave., began having a closing sale today Wednesday, May 15 and would continue until their final day.

The couple has been leasing the space from Gary Zucconi. They've been in business for 28 years.

"It will leave a big hole in town, for sure," said Ellen Wayker. "Our customers are devastated. We have customers in tears."

"The doggie parade comes through every day and the dogs pull their people into the store. We're going to have a lot of disappointed four-legged furry friends," she added.

Reason for closing the business is due to the couple wanting to retire, she explained. "We're bone tired," she said. "Running your own business is a lot of work and we're just exhausted. We want a life."

The couple said they might close the business sooner if they can sell all their merchandize before the June 15 deadline. Items will be discounted this week between 20 and 50 percent, she said, adding that each week prices will be lowered even more.

The Waykers said although they've been approached about selling the business, they're not interested in letting their company name be used or bought. "We're closing it, period," Ellen Wayker said.

Customers with questions about the sale can call the Waykers at 408-355-2282, or 408-355-2285.