Our Story

Established in 1978, Essex Bird & Pet Supply has been a part of this pet loving community for over 40 years. Sisters Susan Lufkin and Shelly Nicastro purchased the business in December 2008.

Buying the pet supply shop was part of a long time dream for Susan and Shelly. Growing up on a small family farm in West Gloucester fostered their love of animals. They have enjoyed breeding, training and showing their horses as well as raising various other animals. Their love of animals is their motivation to supply their customers with everything they need to keep their pets healthy and happy.

Susan holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Alaska. Susan currently owns an eleven year old American Warmblood Paint that she enjoys working with and riding. She also has two Siamese cats, Cleo and Simon.

Shelly has a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology from Salem State College. She has spent many years caring for other peoples' horses and pets as well as for her own menagerie. Shelly enjoys caring for and riding her 7 year old Appaloosa, Jasper. She also has a cat, Millie and the store mascot, a dog named Ricoh.

Shelly Nicastro

Susan Lufkin