For half a century, Sheree Butler has been the heartbeat of Tropical Paradise Pet Center, the small-town shop where colorful fish dart through crystal-clear tanks and the chatter of birds fills the air.
Butler recently celebrated 50 years in the pet business — a milestone that began with a childhood dream.
“I started working at Minerva Pet when I was just 13,” Butler recalled with a laugh. “I thought it would be all fun, just playing with the animals and feeding them. I had no idea how much work it really was.”
From childhood dream to business owner
By age 20, Butler opened her first shop while also working in the pet department at Clarkins, a local store, for eight years. “I was running the shop part-time then,” she said. “When Clarkins laid me off, my mom said, ‘Why don’t you just run the store full-time?’ So I did.”
After starting in a smaller location, Butler moved Tropical Paradise Pet Center to 202 S. West St., Minerva, about 45 years ago.
“It wasn’t always easy,” she said. “We had to move after some issues with neighbors, but this spot has been home ever since.”
Known for healthy fish — and loyal customers
Today, the shop houses about 50 animals, not counting the fish. Butler takes pride in the store’s reputation for selling only the healthiest pets.
“Our fish are never sold the day they come in,” she explained. “We keep them for at least three days. That way we can make sure they’re healthy before anyone takes them home.”
Customers come not just for the animals but for Butler’s advice.
“I always tell people everything they need to know before they leave,” she said. “I want the pets to have the best care possible.”
That dedication has earned Butler a loyal following. “People trust me,” she said simply. “That’s what keeps them coming back.”
Family roots run deep
The shop has always been a family affair. Butler’s parents, sister and other relatives all pitched in over the years.
“My mom and sister were huge help,” she said. “And my dad? He loved decorating the shop. He was always involved.”
Butler credits that support — along with her love for animals — for the store’s longevity.
“I couldn’t have done this without my family,” she said. “They believed in me even when things were tough.”
Looking ahead to the future
Butler said she plans to retire at some point but hopes Tropical Paradise Pet Center will continue under new ownership.
“I want someone to buy the shop,” she said. “It’s been my life’s work, and I’d love to see it go on.”
She’s also making plans for her animals when that day comes. “I’m thinking about building an aviary at home,” she said. “The birds are too smart to end up in shelters. I want to make sure every one of them has a good home.”
For now, though, Butler remains committed to the store as long as her health allows.
“I love my customers, I love my animals,” she said, her voice catching slightly. “That’s what makes this job so special.”
A legacy of care
As Tropical Paradise Pet Center celebrates 50 years, Butler reflects on the journey from that 13-year-old volunteer to a respected business owner.
“It’s been a lot of work,” she admitted. “But it’s also been a lot of love.”
With a smile, she added, “I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”
