The pet store at U.S. 30 and Route 55 in Merrillville has been a long-time Region institution were countless kids got their first pets.
The Ark is celebrating its 45th year in business of staying afloat, even after big corporate pet store chains have flooded into the Region. "My wife and I started the store in 1979. I was young.
And we have gone through many challenges in business but have survived. Most I know have not," owner Tom Nelson said. "We have seen many changes in 45 years.
I watched many businesses along U.S. 30 open and then eventually close.
Most are gone that were open when we opened. The few that have remained, many have sold and retired. My wife and I still are involved with the store and my son has taken over some of the responsibilities as well.
" The Ark Pet Shop at 2400 W Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville started out as tropical fish store and eventually added reptiles, birds and other small pets. It does not carry dogs and cats anymore. "We've been at the same location.
I've got two of my sons in the business," Nelson said. "It's been a long run. So many people have supported us over the decades.
People who came here as little kids became parents and are now bringing their little kids. I see many of my customers regularly. There's sadness when customers pass away.
" He's heard all the jokes about having two of each animal in The Ark. The store's slogan used to be, "We Noah Pets." Nelson worked at an aquatics store in Dyer for about five years starting when he was i.