The development of the Potomac Town Center is moving at an alarming rate. It seems as if every week, neighbors report the coming of a new retailer which the Woodbridge area has not experienced yet. The latest whispers have been about Unleashed by PETCO, the smaller more community minded "sidekick" to PETCO stores.

The first Unleashed by PETCO store opened in 2009 and there are currently 30 locations across the United States, in addition to the 1,050 PETCO stores. There are no PETCO stores located in Woodbridge, and the Unleashed by PETCO brand, which is tentatively scheduled for late August, is the third store to open in Virginia within the last nine months.

According to Brooke Simon, the corporate communications representative for PETCO, there are a few significant differences between the two PETCO brands.

"Unleashed by PETCO is a neighborhood store, and we place new stores in growing neighborhoods where other retailers are located to make sure our customers have a convenient shopping experience." said Simon.

An employee at the Arlington location noted that PETCO stores generally have more square footage and many people drive significant distances to shop at one. The target consumer for Unleashed by PETCO is someone that resides in the neighborhood and may even walk their dog to visit one.

Unleashed by PETCO also carries a slightly different product line, with more of an emphasis on natural, organic, and holistic foods, and all of their associates are nutrition certified and able to help customers find the right food and supplies for their pet’s specific needs.

Adoption clinics are another neighborhood draw which Unleashed by PETCO takes pride in. There is a mandatory application process for potential adopters, in order to ensure the animal is provided a good home; however, the clinics are fun for the whole family and brings joy to the animals as well.

Perhaps the most significant differences between PETCO and Unleashed by PETCO are the additional services that the newest brand offers. Each Unleashed by PETCO location offers professional pet photography and dog training. Training at the Arlington location costs $109 for a six week course.

Unleashed by PETCO also hosts vaccination clinics performed by a licensed veterinarian. Additionally, some locations host pet parties with associates ready to entertain and party with your pet, and feature a grooming salon and pet sitting services.

The average Unleashed by PETCO store creates eight to nine jobs within a community and hiring for the location in Woodbridge will begin a few months before the grand opening date. Potential employees are encouraged to visit the career website to apply.