New to Market: Boxcar

Web Posted: 06/25/2008 10:21 PM CDT
By Adolfo Pesquera Express-News

Boxcar, a pet, feed and lawn products store, opened last summer in a converted 1930s-era ranch house in Helotes.

The store is named for a rusty brown boxcar that sits on the property and is used for storage.

The owners are Bill Estes, owner of Lockhill Feed Store, and the father-son attorney team of Bill Wilson and Eric Wilson.

The store sits on 2 acres, and Eric Wilson thought there was plenty of room for a dog park. Just short of a half-acre, the fenced dog park opened in late January. It's been a huge hit with the locals, Boxcar general manager Robin Deaton said.

The dog park is free to the public but maintained by Boxcar.

"It has a separate gate entry for people to unleash their dogs," Deaton said. "It's mulched; it has poop stations. The dogs can socialize. You can shop while your dog plays or you can sit in the shade."

Boxcar is no big-box pet store. The ambience is pleasant Texas rustic, and the staff prides itself on customer service. They go the extra mile to get customers what they need, Deaton said.

"We work closely with the FFA (Future Farmers of America) at O'Connor High School. Three of our four employees are from there," Deaton said. "So, we get many customers shopping for their show animals."

And every month Boxcar tries to hold at least one social event. July 12's "Bark and Beer" event includes a beer sponsor. Visitors who bring their dog get two free beer tickets. A veterinarian will be on hand offering low-cost vaccinations and low-cost microchip ID systems to help recover lost pets.

The Animal Defense League will bring some dogs that need a good home. And Rome's Pizza will offer slices at market rates.

While you're there, say hello to Daisy. She's a mini-donkey and Boxcar's mascot.

About the business: A scenic country feed, pet and lawn care store with a free dog park

Location: 14398 Bandera Road, before you get to Floores Country Store
Hours of operation: Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; closed Sundays. The dog park has same hours
Ownership: Bill Estes, Bill Wilson and Eric Wilson
Contact information: (210) 695-6282; www.boxcarhelotes.com