"Life is better with you" shines from a neon sign at Salty Paws Pet Boutique in Bellport. It’s a glowing reminder that furry friends matter, and it's a popular spot for photo ops.

"There’s a little couch beneath the sign and a pillow that says, ‘Reserved for the dog,’ " says store owner Ariel LaValle, 28.

The shop, which opened earlier this year, carries healthy dog and cat treats, grooming items, supplements, and accessories — collars, leashes, harnesses, toys, as well as items for pet owners.

"I like to call them the ‘pawrents,’ " says LaValle, whose own menagerie now numbers five. Her dogs are Pip, a pug mix, Chickee, a dachshund mix, and Nova, a Chihuahua mix. Her cats are Peaches and Perry.

Her dogs are rescue pups from Puerto Rico, which aligns with her personal and professional

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