Its been a while, but unfortunately time has been taken up with closing our Elmhurst store and an ill dog. 

We are totally bummed about closing Elmhurst, but it was simply a financial decision.  We are especially sad for the dogs who know the store and will want to come in for their liver cake.  We're sorry!  We hope our Elmhurst customers come to Downers Grove.  Take a look at www.downtowndg.org for all the other GREAT places to visit besides Happy Dog and the events for the downtown area. 

I've also had some bad news about one of my dogs.  Payton is very ill and i have just been treating him with lots of love and attention.  Here he is today at his 10th birthday party, he is on the far right.  His friends, Savannah and Montana came over to celebrate, along with Ellie and Lulu.  He didn't get one of the regular Happy Dog birthday cakes since he is on a special diet, but was treated to a ground beef and potato loaf.  I think he was pretty happy.

Don't forget to look at our new home delivery service page! 

The above picture is an "after" shot of a dog and his savior that came into the store last week.  You can visit www.makingadifferencerescue.com to read her full story and see the horrible before shots.  In short, Don found Angel near death with horrific injuries in the woods.  She was used as bait for dog-fighting and was tossed out in the woods.  She survived for what they believe is a month with her injuries.

I met Angel and she is now the sweetest dog.  Except for her physical scars, you would never believe the trauma she went through when you see based on her disposition.  We always hear the horror stories and it warms my heart to know of people like Don, the vet who saved her after many said no, and the rescue who facilitated it. 

They now have another dog they are helping, with his own horrible story.

I don't want this story to be a downer, but to pass on that there are true angels out there that will take on a case like Angel.

Hi and welcome to the first blog entry for Happy Dog Barkery!  I hope to share some great information with you and hope you find it interesting.  There is alot happening at Happy Dog Barkery and in the world of our companion animals.   We'll introduce our dogs, talk about rescue, meet the fosters, keep you aware of events and other general ramblings.

First, to introduce myself.  Many customers already know me, but allow me to share some info for those who don't.  My name is Beth.  My sister Cheryl and I started Happy Dog Barkery 4 years ago.  I came from a small investment firm of about 50 people.  I ran the network and took care of all the various systems.  I have a BS in Computer Science from North Central College in Naperville.  I came to the realization that the computer field (at least my area) was not something i wanted to do forever.  I wanted to use my creative side and have more freedom.  Being able to do something with my dogs was a dream that i thought just might work.  I convinced my sister to join me in this endeavor.  Four years later, i have worked more hours than i ever have in my life and don't have the money i used to, but i have my freedom and get to interact with dogs every day.  I hope to one day start the Happy Dog Foundation and rescue senior/special needs dogs.

I'll introduce my own pack as i go along.  Pictured above is Payton.  He was originally a foster 5 years ago.  We think he is 10 years old now.  The other dogs were laying in the beds i have scattered throughout the house, so Payton decided he would lay in the little pink cat bed.  He is a great dog, but doesn't get to come to the store.  He thinks he is alpha and likes to let the other dogs know that.  He also would rather stay at home in his "safe zone".  Payton was turned into a shelter by his former family who thought he would like a backyard.  He is getting quite gray, but i think it makes him more distinguished.   Payton is also my allergy dog and the reason i started baking dog biscuits.   I've come a long way since my first test batches and through trial and error i think we have a great selection of recipes.  We'll be adding more bakery items throughout the year.

Thanks for taking the time to read our first entry!  Mention you read the blog at the checkout counter and get a free bacon cookie!  Let me know your thoughts, ideas or stories.

Tomorrow, read about a wonderful customer and his "Angel" dog.  Angel was tossed out in the forest preserve after being used for dog fighting bait.  I met her today at the store and i awed by her perserverance.

Beth