Marblehead– Kate Rhodes stood proudly outside Worldly Pets, surrounded by friends and family with oversized scissors in hand, ready to snip the ribbon and start a new chapter for the well-loved pet store.
But while ownership may have changed, the store’s heart, and tail-wagging spirit, remains intact.
“I think it had to do with excellent timing and some good luck,” said Rhodes, a Marblehead native and lifelong animal lover. “I knew Diane and Gail were looking for someone to take over, and the more I thought about it, the more I realized this was exactly what I wanted to do.”
Worldly Pets has been a staple for local pet owners for nearly two decades. Under longtime owners Diane True and Gail Novack, the shop built a loyal following with its friendly vibe, wide range of pet products, and deep roots in the community.
The recent ribbon-cutting event felt less like a grand opening and more like a neighborhood celebration.
Rhodes’ aunt, Karin Rhodes, said Kate’s grandmother used to run Howard’s News on Pleasant Street, the town’s last news and stationery supply store, which had been a Marblehead landmark and meeting place since the early 1900s.
Karin Rhodes said she tells Kate, “Grammy is here with you,” whenever Kate might feel overwhelmed.
Dogs mingled alongside their humans, many of whom shared memories of shopping there over the years. Among them were regulars, fellow business owners, customers, and even Rhodes’ own friends and family.
“I’m just thrilled to celebrate with her,” said Katherine Koch, executive director of the Marblehead Chamber of Commerce. “Her energy is already all over the store, in the best way.”
Inside, customers browsed the familiar shelves while chatting about favorite treats and toys, like collagen bones and chicken-filled chews. One Marblehead dog mom pointed out her dog’s favorite: “He’s a super chewer, so I refill these with healthy stuff … real chicken, no junk,” Martha Quigley said.
“It’s about building on what Diane and Gail created, not changing it,” Rhodes said. “They’ve built something really special here.”
And both previous owners couldn’t agree more.
“I feel fantastic,” said Novack, beaming as she introduced her dog, Kuvli. “Retirement’s been great so far — we’re moving to South Carolina soon.”
True echoed the sentiment: “We haven’t had time to enjoy it fully yet, we’ve been busy packing! But we know Kate’s going to take good care of the place.”
The pair remained at the event for most of the afternoon, hugging longtime customers, reminiscing, and offering their well-wishes.
“Honestly, it just feels right,” Rhodes said. “This is home. And I get to do something I love every day.”
