I Belong Series: Meet Gail, Administrative Assistant

For 16+ years, Gail has been a HUGE help to those within #LifeAtPetSmart and has made a positive impact on our associates, pets, and pet parent alike. We're proud and happy to celebrate her on National Administrative Professionals Day, and are thankful for her hard work every day! Please check out her story of Belonging at PetSmart below.

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The Belonging Program’s “I Belong” Series harnesses the power of empathy through storytelling. This series is intended to give associates a greater sense of understanding, a bridge to gain new perspective, and a way to build connection to each other. To learn more about the “I Belong” Series or to submit your stories, please visit our new Belonging Fetch Page.

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Meet Gail | Administrative Assistant

April 21 is Administrative Professional’s Day

A definition of an administrative professional is someone that keeps an office running smoothly every day. Someone who is organized and efficient. I would add that being able to relate to others plays a large part in this position as you get the pleasure of working with people from all walks of life and from all over the world.

Having been with PetSmart for over 16 years, as either an administrative or executive assistant in various departments – I.T., Marketing, Business Development, Merchandising, and Customer Experience, I have seen many changes, not only with our leadership but with our culture.

I believe that PetSmart has always been forward-thinking, but in recent years has brought culture to the forefront.

Because of this change and because of these conversations, I have been able to talk with others and experience their culture, thus widening my horizons. I have learned about Hanukkah traditions, Indigenous cultures, and other celebrations such as Diwali, to name a few. I’ve also had the opportunity to share with my co-workers about Armenia, the western Asian country my grandfather immigrated from, and found that other associates were from there, as well.

Just after my first anniversary at PetSmart, we adopted our dog, Bella, a Shi-Poo, from an adoption agency that works with PetSmart Charities. She’s also spent over 15 years at PetSmart. While she no longer comes into the office with me, when I look at her, I’m reminded of my journey and how working for PetSmart has enriched not only her life but also mine.