Pet owners are increasingly seeking out healthier food options for their animals, including organic choices.

That is one of the reasons why the owner of a new pet and pet supplies shop in Hamilton believes the business will help to fill a gap in the market.

Paws and Claws has opened on Reid Street, above the iClick Store. It is a second branch for the business, which has had a shop in Somerset for seven years.

Owner Gerlie Barbosa said because the Somerset store is on Cambridge Road, it has less opportunity to attract passing trade. That outlet will remain open to serve the West End and its regular customers.

The decision to open a shop in Hamilton was made after receiving many requests from customers, said Ms Barbosa.

She hopes the new location will give the business more exposure and prove popular as a convenient central Hamilton spot for pet owners to pick up food and accessories.

When asked how Paws and Claws will differentiate itself from the other pet stores in the city and surrounding area, Ms Barbosa said one strong point was stocking quality dog food made by Orijen.

“It is the best dog food on the market. It is 85 per cent meat,” she said.

Ms Barbosa, who is a dog owner, believes there are more people with pets on the island, and they are increasingly on the look out for healthier food options for their animals.

“There are more who are looking for things like organic food and healthier food for their pets.”

She added that the business can compete price-wise with others as it cuts out the middleman and goes straight to manufacturers for its stock.

The shop also stocks an extensive range of pet products, including collars and leads, cat food and pet toys, bird cages and bird seed, pet grooming items, and aquariums and related-supplies.

A space has been created for a future display of aquarium fish and birds.

The business offers free delivery anywhere on the island for orders of $100 or more.

The new shop is on the first floor of Williams House, at 20 Reid Street. Ms Barbosa said there are plans to expand the space if the opportunity arrives.

The business has a Facebook page @/pawsandclawspetsuppliesbermuda