Meet the women behind Madison’s most beloved pet businesses, find out where to dine and hike with your pup, and get inspired by the animals (and people) doing good in our community for our four-legged friends.
By Shelby Deering, Nikki Kallio, Shayna Mace, Danielle St. Louis, Hywania Thompson and Katie Vaughn
Head of the Pack
From shops to daycares to training services, women lead many of the city’s pet-focused businesses. Sit, stay and read on to meet a few of them.
Shop Local at These Madison Pet Shops
Step into a few female-run pet stores throughout the Madison area!
Five Nearby Wisconsin State Parks to Explore With Your Dog
Want to go hiking with your dog? Check out these five nearby state parks to explore with your dog.
Homegrown Goodies
Wisconsin is home to several businesses that specialize in producing high-quality food and treats for pets.
A Look at Madison-Area Service and Therapy Dog Organizations
These seven organizations and programs help connect service and therapy dogs to those who need them.
Meet Madison’s Nonprofit and Affordable-Care Vet Clinics
When it comes to pets, keeping them healthy and happy is important. Fostering our pets’ wellbeing is also better for the community, says Lauren Brinkman, executive director of Underdog Pet Rescue and Veterinary Services.
3 Essential Dog Training Tips Using Positive Reinforcement
Aimee Jarosz, owner of Dog’s Best Friend Training (dogsbestfriendtraining.com), lends her expertise.
Bone Appétit
With the number of great restaurants our city has, Madisonians have a wealth of delicious dining options. Here are recommendations for some of the best pet-friendly patios and eateries in town.
The Purrfect Blend at The Cat’s Brew
Years ago, when Liz Brey and Heather Wipijewski met while working as vet techs for a local veterinary emergency hospital, they bonded over their mutual love of animals — more specifically, cats. The duo often met for coffee, where they’d discuss work — and bandied about ideas on how they could open their own business and help animals.
