Local shops are preparing for Small Business Saturday.

On Monday Michael Mastalski opened up shop in downtown Hollidaysburg.

Just over a year ago he became a proud dog owner of a little pup named Jak.

He said naturally, he named his pet boutique “Just Jak’s Wags and Whiskers.”

From doggy snacks, to squeak toys, Michael said shelves are stocked with American made products.

“Some of our products are, about a third come from with inside Pennsylvania,” Michael said.

The store is open just in time for Small Business Saturday.

In 2010 American Express launched the initiative.

According to the National Federation of Independent Business, last year the event put over $16 billion in the local shopping economy.

“Shopping local isn’t just about dollars. Shopping local is about thinking about your local community,” Michael said.

Familiar with small businesses, his mom, Elaine reminds Michael that it takes kindness and patience to be successful.

Michael said around this time of year is when area shops can thrive.

“It’s community not competition…dollars coming in mean dollars staying within the community,” Michael said.

 “I’m very proud of Michael’s effort here in town and I think he’ll bring a lot of passion to the efforts to revitalize downtown Hollidaysburg,” Elaine said.