Colleagues at the new store, opening at the Sprucefield Centre today (Friday), invited the 20 pupils and their teachers to take part in a series of pet workshops on Thursday, when Pets at Home’s mascot, Robbie the Dog, joined them in the fun. The Mayor of Lisburn, Alderman William Leathem, also attended the event and took part in a special tour of the fantastic new facilities with store manager Gareth Kerr. Speaking ahead of the visit on Thursday, Gareth said: “We’re really excited about meeting all our special guests this Thursday, as well as opening our doors to Lisburn’s pet owners on Friday. We look forward to being actively involved in the local pet community and hope that we’re able to support lots of local organisations in raising awareness of responsible pet care in the area.” Volunteers from Millvale Animal Sanctuary will spend time at the new store on Saturday and Sunday to tell customers about their work and raise much-needed funds for their cause. Pets at Home Lisburn will be home to a Pet Adoption Centre, where pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and other small animals are cared for until a new loving home can be found. Other features will include a pet village, aquatic centre, reptile centre, a Groom Room and a Companion Care veterinary surgery. The new store has created 17 jobs and will provide thousands of dedicated pet products, catering for dogs, cats, small animals, chickens, reptiles, birds and fish, as well as wildlife. A special party will take place at the new store on Saturday, October 27, and Sunday, October 28,, with 10 per cent off all purchases plus free entertainment for families, including face painting and balloon modelling.