Atlantic Station Couple Opens 'Uptown Pups' Pet Store below their Loft

Midtown has a new place to pamper pets. 

Uptown Pups opened Friday in Atlantic Station. The pet store -- located on 19th Street next to Atlantic Grill -- sells items for dogs and cats, including toys, natural treats and food, grooming supplies and healthcare products. 

"We have unique items, because we buy from vendors that are start-ups like us," said owner Michelle Bunn, who runs the store with her fiance Brad Bielen.

Popular items include a variety of durable toys, as well as products designed for urban living such as a shock-absorbing leash for dogs that pull while walking.

"We try to keep everything affordable," she said. Pets are welcome inside the store. 
 
Bunn and Bielen, who both live in Atlantic Station, began Uptown Pups as an online store in November 2010.

"We got a lot of great feedback in person," said Bunn, an engineer who graduated from Georgia Tech. So the couple took a "leap of faith" and decided to open a store ... in a retail space below their loft.

"I love it," Bunn said. She said the couple hopes to make the pet store their full-time career. 

"I've always loved animals," Bunn said. If you stop into the store, you'll meet her two dogs: Zoe, a golden retriever, and Lexie, a Brittany spaniel (see the picture). 

"We have toys on the floor to play with," Bunn said. Dogs really enjoy testing out the toys, she said. 

In the future, Bunn said she hopes to hold "Yappy Hours," where people and their dogs can enjoy treats and mingling. 

The store hours are: Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, from noon to 6 p.m.

For more information, email info@uptownpupsonline.com or visit the pet store's website.