PETSMART

Pixel is a gray-and-white tabby. Her best friend is a cocker spaniel. She likes to play fetch and prefers dog toys. If she wants to slip on a dog collar, walk around PETsMART and pretend to be a longhaired Chihuahua named "Butch," she's welcome. They don't make judgments about animal lifestyles at PETsMART.

Pixel was recently featured as "Smart Pet of the Day" on the PETsSMART Web site (www.petsmart.com). The national pet supply retailer is a friendly place for all creatures furred, feathered, finned and, er, something starting with "F" that takes in lizards and snakes. Pets are allowed to come shop with their owners. In-store services include grooming, training and Saturday clinics on a wide range of pet-care topics.

Don't have a pet? PETsMART works with local animal shelters to find homes for dogs and cats through its in-store adoption centers (more than 1 million adoptions to date).

Runners-up: Pet Supplies Plus and SuperPetz