“I have ants getting into my house,” a customer explained to Laylah Gibford, the general manager at Northwest Seed and Pet on Sprague Avenue, initiating a typical customer interaction at this Spokane institution. Gibford’s expertise immediately kicked in, as she questioned the customer about the ant problem, guiding him towards the appropriate pest control solutions within the store’s well-stocked chemical department. Her advice led the customer to a suitable product and clear instructions on its application, resulting in another satisfied customer heading to the checkout.
This everyday scenario perfectly encapsulates the essence of Northwest Seed and Pet, a cherished Spokane business celebrating its 80th anniversary this year. For generations, this garden and pet supply store has been the trusted destination for local residents seeking quality products and knowledgeable advice for their gardens and beloved pets. Adding to its legacy, Northwest Seed and Pet welcomed new local family ownership last July when Aubrey, Crystal, and Darfus Moore took the reins from Bob Mauk, ensuring the continuation of its community-focused operation.
The story of Northwest Seed and Pet began in 1944 from humble beginnings in Harry Gross’s house on a quieter Sprague Avenue, initially as a tool store. A decade later, Ken and Frieda Hester expanded the business, then named Northwest Seed & Insecticide, adding to the original house structure and diversifying the inventory to include pet supplies and even animals. Notably, their animal collection was quite exotic, featuring creatures like a chimpanzee, wallaby, and a caiman. As the Hester sons became involved, the store officially adopted its current name, Northwest Seed and Pet, reflecting its broadening offerings.
Further expansion followed in 1983 with the opening of the North Division store, driven by increasing customer demand across Spokane. In 2003, Bob Mauk, a long-time employee since 1978, took over ownership from the Hester brothers, continuing the tradition of local leadership. Mauk remains involved, assisting the Moore family with the ownership transition, highlighting the store’s commitment to a smooth and community-centric handover. Beyond family ownership, Northwest Seed and Pet prides itself on its dedicated long-term staff, including Laylah Gibford, whose family’s connection extends through generations within the store.
Aubrey Moore articulates the current vision: “We want to provide leadership in organic and conventional garden chemical products, soil amendments, seeds, and pet supplies to the Spokane community.” This vision is deeply rooted in supporting the local community and prioritizing exceptional customer service. Northwest Seed and Pet emphasizes sourcing plant stocks from local growers, ensuring products are well-suited to the Spokane climate. For pet owners, the store is committed to offering premium pet foods, including options with minimal ingredients and specialized diets for animals with specific needs.
Beyond the essentials, Northwest Seed and Pet boasts specialties in tropical fish, reptiles, pond supplies and plants, and small animals and birds, making it a comprehensive destination for pet and garden enthusiasts. As the Moore family embarks on this new chapter, they are planning a series of events to commemorate the 80th anniversary, including a Reptile Expo & Summer Event on August 3rd and the Northwest Seed and Pet Fall Festival on October 19th, both at the Sprague location. Looking ahead, the Moores are excited to introduce community workshops, a soil bar for plant repotting, and engaging activities designed for children. For more details on upcoming events and offerings, visit their website: nwseed.com, and experience the enduring legacy of Northwest Seed and Pet.
