Normally I don’t post in the Thankful Thursday blog hop but simply couldn’t NOT participate this week. If COVID and current events have taught me anything, it’s to embrace gratitude wholeheartedly and don’t procrastinate letting people know how much you care.
Earlier this week while I was reflecting about the Christmas holiday, the mailman delivered a small package. What’s this I wondered, since I knew I hadn’t ordered anything? Thinking it was simply some end of the year appeal for a donation from a group I’d supported before, I figured it was some mailing labels or greeting cards. To my surprise, it turned out to be far more.
Back when I began blogging, many bloggers I followed were influencers with various companies promoting their products. I had hoped to join those ranks but by the time I had any measurable number of followers, many of those companies changed their policies and stopped working with bloggers. Chewy was one of them. I was disappointed but then again, hadn’t really lost anything and just continued to do what I’d been doing-posting about the resident Knucklehead and his hospital adventures.
People seemed to enjoy the posts, the blog grew and readers fell in love with Sam whose legendary knuckle-headed adventures seemed to touch hearts on our little acre of the Internet. When Norman joined this merry band, his adorable face and sweet nature seemed to appeal to readers as well (for which I’m also grateful). Oh sure, there was a story or two about the Ninja, but Elsa’s presence here has been fairly minuscule. Her puppy mill background doesn’t exactly lend itself to sharing heartfelt stories beyond the numerous episodes of her inexplicably chewing up eyeglasses (I think she’s up to 6 or 7 pairs of reading glasses now) and assorted ‘stuffie’ assassinations. I adore this complicated girl but she’s not exactly the kind of dog people understand or favor. Coupled with her ongoing battle with epilepsy, her “still waters run deep” personality is tough to share in a post. Then this arrived.
The inside massage took my breath away and my emotions got the better of me. Around Thanksgiving I placed an autoship order for food and pet supplies. I received an email indicating an earlier-than-expected delivery date and couldn’t have been more thrilled, given supply chain issues these days. Now understand, I place orders about every 3 weeks for food for the Ranch’s ‘livestock.’ I live in an older, very well known neighborhood and rarely have problems with deliveries. Delivery companies know the area well. Amazon, FedEx and UPS trucks are plentiful, delivering packages all day long and yet for some reason, UPS managed to bungle delivering this one. After two emails indicating they had ‘tried’ to deliver said order (which they had not), the following Wednesday UPS sent a notice that “because delivery had not been made, they were returning the box to sender.” What the bloody heck?!?! We were down to the bottom of the food bag so I called Chewy’s explaining the online exchanges I had with UPS (all efforts to reach a live UPS representative were fruitless) and the kind, patient and very pleasant service rep at Chewy assured me a new order would be sent out with priority status. I was extremely grateful and assured both Ranch Hands no one would go hungry. The order arrived a day and half later and all was good at the Ranch. I softly said a prayer of thanks; the dogs had full bellies and all was well in Ranchland so my focus, like most people’s turned toward getting ready for the upcoming Christmas holiday. In other words, I moved on. Supply chain issues has become the new buzzword these days with delays being routinely expected especially during the holidays.
This 6″ x 6″ canvas was lovingly packed with the sweet card and brought tears to my eyes. I. Was. Simply. Stunned. The image from Elsa’s profile was a favorite of mine. As a black dog, she’s hard to capture photographically without looking like a dark blob. As she’s too reluctant to pose, when she does (or when I get lucky like here), it seemed like the obvious choice to use it as a profile pic but I never expected anything like this treasured gift.
Meaningful words of gratitude seem so inadequate. All I can offer is a heartfelt “THANK YOU” from the bottom of my heart. This little piece of art means so much and I’ll cherish this sweet gesture forever. Say what you will about large, unfeeling corporations, but this kind gesture shows not all companies treat their customers so cavalierly. Let me just say I think, Chewy is ‘picture perfect.’
Live, love, bark! 🐾
Wow, that is impressive and lovely. It’s a Vitamin B shot for the soul.
Here’s to gratitude.
It was one of the loveliest unsolicited gestures I’ve seen, especially from a big corporation.
It’s what business should look like, how they should behave. Like human beings. Hear hear!
👍🏻I’m with you all the way in that score.
Solidarity!
Now if we could just get those DC knuckleheads on board.
Let’s get on the bus . . make sure they have a wet bar and ride!
Chewy is a very good company, and I have been pleased with them.
They are the best and truly are amazing.
Wow— good going, Chewy! Thank you for talking a bit about Elsa. I have a similar dog (although no seizures) who shuns the spotlight. It’s good to hear about other dogs with similar temperaments. They are shy but valued.
Chewy is beyond amazing!
Puppy mill survivors pull at my heart. She was nearly feral when I adopted her and has come a long way. She’ll probably always have ‘issues’ but around me she’s sweet. Except when she destroys my reading glasses. 😇
What a beautiful act of kindness! I’ll have to check them out for my own “little ranchers’ ” needs! We should support companies like that!
Chewy is the best and I appreciate the convenience of having the ‘livestock’s’ feed delivered right to my door. They have the nicest customer service people I’ve ever dealt with. Thanks for swinging by the Ranch. We 💙 visitors.
What an absolutely wonderful thing for a company to do, and it is so well done! Elsa is a beautiful girl, and hit the jackpot when she landed in your home. I think maybe you underestimate your readers…I, for one, would welcome “reality” posts about her life.
Have a wonderful new year! Amy
Thanks Amy. We’ll work on a post or two after the New Year.
Chewy always knows the right thing to do and then DOES it. We too have been Chewy customers (and Influencers) for many years. They rarely make a “mistake” and on the rare occasion when something isn’t quite perfect, they fix it. I recently had two 25 lb. bags of kibble shipped as part of my regular auto-ship along with two small bags of bird seed. The seed really should have been boxed separately or protected in some way. The seed bags had burst in the box. Chewy immediately sent me two new bags.
AND we have one of those beautiful portraits of our dear Angel Phantom.
One last note – hope you are all safe there in Colorado with the horrifying fires.
Kathie and The OP Pack
Thanks, Kathie. All is well in the city. But the fires are something else. You’re so right about Chewy. They make things right no matter what.
What a touching gift! Chewy sounds like a wonderful company.
They truly are! Over the years they’ve proved it time and time again. This latest gesture was simply over the top. I’m so blessed.
What a beautiful portrait! Chewy.com has always held a special place in our hearts!
They really out did themselves this time!
I have a similar problem. When they take a picture of this blue bird in flight, I blend into the sky. Don’t suggest that I should do it at night.
How Wonderful!
It sure touched my heart!
The absolute sweetest.
I thought so too. 💙
What a wonderful surprise….a company with a heart.
Precisely! Who knew? Seriously though, they treat their customers VERY well.
Awww…this is like a Hallmark movie. Happy to see the Lady Elsa get her fair share of props which is tough to do when surrounded by superstars. I got a Christmas card from the gas company but I don’t think they are anywhere near as sincere as Chewy.
PG&E…yeah I doubt it. Chewy is the best!
Please…Socal Gas…we have some standards around here. Low, but they exist.
Bwahahaha! I stand corrected.
Wow, what an amazing surprise!! I think I read somewhere a while ago that they will randomly do that, nice to know they really do! I’ve always found Chewy to be a good resource.
They do such good work and demonstrate a lot of caring towards their customers.
Yay, Chewy!
We’ll second that!
A terrific story, Monika. We love Chewy here.Thanks for sharing.
Thanks, John. Chewy is definitely the best!
So wish Chewy was in Canada!
Wow, can’t believe they aren’t. That’s really unfortunate. So sorry.
Thanks for sharing, Monika. Cheers to the people for doing so much for you that you wanted to share it with others. Wonderful on all counts! …. well, except UPS.
Chewy is phenomenal. I’ve never encountered a crabbish person either. They’re always so accommodating, gracious and just downright kind. They know how to do business right!
Love it!!!! Chewy is always doing the most thoughtful things!! A few months ago (I also use autodelivery), I had a package “disappear”…….and of course they immediately re-sent, what is extra special is they tell you if the package turns up you can keep it (which is exactly what happened)…..they are super thoughtful there and their customer service is exemplary. I am so happy they made you such a pawesome portrait! It’s well deserved!!
They truly are the best (I had that happen to me once before too). That canvas is just so doggone precious!
That is such a wonderful gift and you’ll remember it and the kindness forever. Yes, the customer service folks at Chewy are truly top notch. Thanks for joining our Thankful Thursday Blog Hop!
They are just fabulous! And thank you for hosting this blog hop. It’s good to acknowledge one’s blessings.
Thanks for sharing your gratitude! I thoroughly enjoyed it and it is such a precious portrait! Happy New Year to you and your family!
Thank you for dropping by the Ranch. Happy 2022 to you and yours!
I love Chewy. I am not on auto-ship (although I should be) but I do order (when they have it) Teddy’s Royal Canin cat food from them. They are FAST with shipments and really do have everything for pets of all kinds! When Teddy was on prescription cat food they never missed a beat. I’ve heard wonderful stories about them for years – people routinely get lovely messages and cards and even Christmas gifts from them. Love the painting – it’s absolutely precious. YAY FOR CHEWY!
Hugs, Pam (and Teddy)
Yay for Chewy is right! Their customer service is unparalleled.
Elsa’s portrait is amazing and I’m glad you had a great experience with Chewey. We loved them too, when Little Bit was with us.
Have a fabulous Thankful Thursday, my friend. Scritches to the pups, a smooch to Norman and a hug to you. ♥
Thanks, Sandee. Chewy is really special; I’m in awe of their kindness.
**wipin teerss from our eyess**
Mee-yow Miss Monika what a wunderfull gesture from Chewy.com! Wee heer so many feel guud an sweet storiess! They are a furabuluss company fore sure!
An THE portrait of elsa iss stunnin! An anytime you wanna share ’bout Elsa wee will ALLWAYSS reed an reeply!
BellaSita Mum had 2 seezuress this week so far….wee understand an are heer fore you both! An allso fore you Sweet Norman you sweet Man Poochie!
An furinallee wee are GRATEFULL to know ALL of youss’!!
***nose kissess*** BellaDharma an {{hugss}} BellaSita Mum
Thanks, sweet kitty. Chewy is definitely an amazing company! They have a suburb line of products for all types of pets and their customer service is incredible!
How very wonderful of them! 🙂 I really love that portrait of Elsa.
We sometimes order things from Chewy. Lately it was a cat house. Mary also uses it for presents for her daughter and her dog. We’re now using it for medication [eye drops] for our kitty Mr. Pickwick. The vet said Chewy are the only ones where wwe can get them. That works fine. We at one time ordered special diet tinned food there, but that didn’t turn out too well. They needed a prescription from a vet for that, they said. Even if we’ve seen the same food OTC in pet stores in San Antonio. Anyway: our vet charged us $25 (!!) just to write a prescription. Maybe the vets I needed to take Mr. Pickwich to lately, an animal ophthalmologist and an internel medicine vet, would just approve of an order, as the ophthalmologist does with Mr. Pickwick’s antibiotic.
Have a nice New Year’s Eve, and give both four-legged friends a nice hug from me. Hopefully the fireworks won’t scare them too much.
Best,
Pit
It would never hurt to ask the specialist. I’ve never heard of a vet charging to write the Rx they were prescribing! That seems nuts to me. Chewy is quite amazing.
We like it, too.
I’ve always said Chewy is THE BEST online vendor of ANY kind. Their customer service is top notch! The folks are compassionate, helpful, polite, and always cheerful. They always do their absolute best to help resolve any issue. Back when Callie passed, I had only been a customer for less than a year but they sent a sympathy card when I called to request a refund on something I purchased for her just before I knew she had the lymphoma. Then, when Shadow passed they sent flowers and a sympathy card. The same when Radar passed. When I called to order Bogie’s puppy supplies before we brought him home, they sent a card to welcome him to the Chewy family along with some little gifts. I still treasure those little “goodies”. And I just received an email from them the other day saying they would refund my full purchase price of some Cosequin products that I’m no longer using for Ducky. I wasn’t sure of the purchase date so was not expecting a full refund, but sure do appreciate it.
As to the gift they sent you, I absolutely love that portrait of sweet Elsa! It’s a great picture of her! Such a thoughtful gift, too!!
Chewy is truly fabulous! I have so few good pics of Elsa and so this little portrait was especially appreciated.
Now that is a good news story! I’ve heard good things about Chewy’s customer service, a rare gem these days!
It’s always a pleasure being one of their customers. They are so kind and thoughtful. I could wax on and on endlessly about all the really special things they’ve done for me and so many others.
I use Chewy to the tune of at least $300 a month (there are currently 9 dogs and 3 cats in my house), but what I really love is that I can get giant pee pads from them, even if some are back ordered. Almost all the local stores are out of all but the small ones. I try to keep at least 2 boxes in stock.
Their product selection is quite extensive. With multiple pets, it makes sense to autoship-and setting it up is sooo easy and easily changeable. I love Chewy!
How wonderful! Sometimes corporate America can pleasantly surprise you by not only doing the right thing, but going a little bit above and beyond. Good on Chewy!
Zoe went into a panic at the mere thought that dogs at the Ranch might STARVE! She tells me she is STARVING regularly, and wouldn’t wish that fate on her worst enemy unless it meant that she could have their food.
Have a Happy New Year, Ranchlings.
Aww, sweet Zoe. Please let her know no will starve at the Ranch! Chewy regularly goes above and beyond. I love that company. Happy New Year! 🎊🎆
Chewy is absolutely amazing and incredibly helpful at all times. Love that company.
They truly are the best!
Chewy is my all time favorite on-line vendor. My cats get birthday cards from them with a discount and if there is a problem I get a real live person. Even if I email, the response is from a person and not computer generated. The fact that they’d rather have you donate something than return it is icing on the cake. Being big and having good customer service can go hand in hand.
They are definitely tops in my mind too! I wish more companies followed their customer service ethos.
Aww… This brought tears to my eyes. What a loving and generous gesture!
Mine too. It was such a sweet gesture.
And when its unexpected like this, it’s all the more heartwarming. 🙂
It was truly touching and now resides at my studio workspace.
Lovely!
I may need to move it to another spot though, I just realized it’s pointing toward my eyeglasses! LOL
awe! perfect and I added your link in! Love to all of you…
Thank you!