About Us

Best Friends Mercantile was born from the same love and care that built Columbus Boarding & Training and Personal Paws. After years of working hands-on with pets and their families, owners Patrick and Samantha Stout wanted to create a space where they could share the products they truly trust and use every day, thoughtfully curated for your home, gifts, and everyday life with your furry family.

Samantha’s background is at the heart of that trust. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a pre-veterinary focus from Troy University and is an International Advanced Certified Groomer (ICG). She is a member of the National Dog Groomers Association of America and maintains Advanced Pet First Aid and CPR certification, while continuing her education each year through professional training and seminars. Her science-based approach and commitment to staying current ensure that every product offered meets the same high standards she expects for the pets in her care.

After Patrick’s retirement following 20 years of service in the U.S. Army, the Stouts launched Personal Paws Mobile Grooming, which now serves more than 13,000 pets each year. Listening closely to their clients’ concerns about safe, high-quality care later inspired them to create Columbus Boarding & Training, designed to give pets a clean, enriching environment and give their families peace of mind.

Their passion for animals extends far beyond their businesses. With five dogs of their own, including three rescues, along with cats, a donkey named George, and a full farm of animals, caring for animals is truly their way of life.

Best Friends Mercantile is also a true family business. Their children are actively involved and contribute to daily operations, bringing the same care, pride, and personal attention that defines everything the Stout family does.

From gourmet treats and grooming essentials to cozy home décor and meaningful gifts, every item is handpicked based on real experience, professional knowledge, and what the Stout family uses and trusts themselves. Now you can shop the same quality they rely on every day, with shipping, local delivery, or convenient pickup when you stop by.