About Us
Mark and Michele, Creators of Riley's Natural Pet Supply
We were introduced by our dear friend Suzanne because we had three areas in common: where we lived, our love of the outdoors, and our commitment to our pets. We merged our lives with four dogs. Some were rescued, some suffered medical challenges, some struggled with breed discrimination, and one had been badly physically abused. All became brothers, and soon after our marriage, the seeds of developing a pet industry business were cultivated. There is no greater joy than the intersection of the core values of one's life woven into a career and vocation. Riley's Natural Pet Supply is an organic extension of the collective spirit of all the pets who have touched our heart and soul. We dedicate this store, in honor and memory of, our pets, past, present, and future....
Mitzy, Aja, Seuss, Jake, Butch, El Nino, Digr, Rocky, Riley, Moki, Chaco, Jagger, Tallulah, and Dr. Seuss.
In Memory of Mark Pahan, Owner & Co- Creator of Riley's
Mark grew up in Southern California and moved to Colorado after high school to study Fire Science Technology and to explore his love of the Rocky Mountains through skiing, backpacking, and Colorado Outward Bound School. Rescuing and caring for animals had been a passion for Mark since he was a child. This expanded into rescuing a wild mustang, cats and dogs, and becoming a Certified Dog Trainer while working with several rescue shelters. Professionally, Mark's career had focused on the manufacturing industry, concentrating on Quality Management Systems, Operations and Safety. He had been planning for the opportunity to start a natural pet supply and service company with his wife Michele as a shared dream for over 10 years. Mark died tragically and unexpectedly in September 2015. His energy and fingerprints will remain in the wall plaster of Riley's, and we miss him every day.
Michele Hanson Pahan, Owner
Michele grew up in the Columbine area of Littleton, Colorado from the age of two, and has successfully navigated self-employment in a service-oriented business for over 28 years, as a Licensed and Certified Massage Therapist. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Colorado, Boulder in Psychology, and Certification in Massage Therapy from the Boulder School of Massage Therapy. She has taught educational seminars about massage therapy, holistic health, and nutrition. As an outdoor enthusiast, she instructed rock climbing and mountaineering courses, and enjoys snowboarding and canyoneering in the desert. Michele's commitment to a life of holistic health has become integrated into her relationship with animals.