Delmar Kyllo

“When I was a child, we started taking care of a neighborhood dog – Duffy. That was really the first time that I had to consider someone else besides myself.” It was Duffy that taught Delmar to see the potential in pets and people, a skill he uses to lead more than 3700 associates in 146 PetSmart stores across Canada as Regional Vice President. “Duffy used to be the neighborhood terror but as we got to know each other, he became a part of the family and I learned to never judge a book by its cover!”

Delmar has been an integral leader within PetSmart Canada’s store operations team for nearly a decade. With a rich history in retail operations and providing leadership for some of Canada’s largest retail brands, Delmar joined PetSmart Canada as District Manager for British Columbia in 2012. His ability to lead and inspire the Canadian store team has led to Delmar’s increasing roles of responsibility within the company. After being promoted to Regional Director in 2018, Delmar continued to drive results for the business and was appointed to the role of Regional Vice President in 2021.

His passion for pets and people extends beyond his professional career, as he is an active volunteer for City Reach, a Vancouver, BC based organization that provides food for low-income families. Delmar brings a mix of passion and business prowess that serves as a solid foundation for his work on the PetSmart Charities of Canada board.

Mission Moments

with Delmar Kyllo

Why do you think the human-animal bond is so important?
We all want and deserve unconditional love. And that is what a pet gives you! They bring us a validation and acceptance and they inspire us to strive to do the same for others

What makes you most proud of working with PetSmart Charities of Canada?
The opportunity to do good for others. The ability to take a small deed, like a $2 donation at the pin-pad, and using it to make a big impact on the lives of pets and people in need.

What is a Charities mission moment you will never forget?
Meeting Ellie, our 300,000th adoption at a PetSmart store in Canada, and celebrating the day with her and her new mom Hanne. Ellie (previously named Blink) was a one-eyed senior Chihuahua who was a stray rescue from a California Shelter. It was great to see the bond that Ellie and Hanne had, and even more special knowing Ellie had found her “furever” home.

What absolutely excites you about the future of animal welfare in Canada?
Supporting the bond and connection between pets and people through a holistic approach to animal welfare.