The Polka Dot Pup

09/10/2025

Are you doing one last big declutter before the cold weather hits? Bring your old blankets and towels here to be donated to Grundy County Animal Control! Now through through the end of the year I will be collecting donations in the lobby. They could also benefit from wet/dry cat & kitten food, treats for the dogs to chew on, cleaning supplies, and gently used collars, leashes, and harnessses.

If you have room in your heart and home for a feline friend, please go check out their page! They are full and these sweet babies deserve a warm lap to sleep on before it gets cold!

Another great way to reduce the load on our local shelters is to spay/neuter your pets and only adopt from a trusted rescue, shelter, or ethical breeder. If you need help finding resources for any of those things or low cost vet care, shoot me a text and I’d be happy to help! 💕🐾

09/02/2025

08/21/2025

Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural workers face unique stressors that can significantly impact their mental health, often at higher rates than the general population.

This training, offered by University of Illinois Extension, is designed to:

✔️Raise awareness of mental health and substance use challenges in agricultural communities.
✔️Teach practical skills to recognize signs of distress or crisis in others.
✔️Provide tools for early intervention and support.
✔️Reduce stigma by encouraging open conversations and breaking the silence around mental health.
✔️Connect individuals to local and national resources for ongoing care.

Mental Health First Aid for the Agriculture Community
👉Read for more information and registration https://f.mtr.cool/zwoehbzrzy

07/11/2025

Hi friends!

The shop will be closed next week for some exciting (and much needed) upgrades to the outdoor space - we’re getting a walkway poured! That being said, I will be taking a break from work that week to spend some quality time with my loved ones 💕

I will periodically check the work phone but I plan to try and disconnect and be fully present with the people around me next week! I will be sure to get back to everyone in a timely manner once the salon is open 🐾

06/24/2025

Hi Folks! Two things:

1. As a heads up, I am full for June and *almost* full for July! If you’d like to get your dogs in before school starts please shoot me a text asap!

2. If you haven’t already, would you leave me review? It would mean the world to me!

Stay cool! 🌞

04/21/2025

Last minute opening for tomorrow afternoon! Text me at 815-216-5647 to snag it!

04/03/2025

Was your pet's microchip registered to Save This Life? This company shut down and unlinked their entire database from the national registry. This means, when your pets microchip is scanned, no information is provided.

Here at Grundy County Animal Control, we know how important it is to have your pet microchipped with the correct information. This helps animals all over the country get returned home if lost.

We are offering to register your pet's current microchip with up to date information for FREE. We will scan your pet's current microchip and register your information to a company that is more reliable. We also offer microchips to pets that don't have one for $15.

Please give us a call to set up a microchip appointment. We can be reached at 815-942-9214.

03/19/2025

IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ

I have had an absolutely insane amount of no call no shows and last minute cancellations this month. I understand Spring Break can make things busy, but I wanted to take a minute to highlight my cancellation policy once again.

As stated in the pinned post, a no call no show or any cancellation within 24 hours of your appointment will incur a fee of 50% of your total for the missed appointment. This is a fee and does NOT apply to your next appointment. This fee must be paid to attend any future appointments or to reschedule.

This is to protect myself and my children. No one wants to go to work and not get paid.

03/16/2025

I have a last minute opening tomorrow 3/17 at 2pm! Text me at 815-216-5647 to claim!

02/11/2025

After a microchip company abruptly shut down, animal shelters and related organizations have begun warning pet owners to re-register their animals with a different service.

01/25/2025

I have TWO cancellations for Monday, January 27th! Text me to nab one or both! 815-216-5647 💕💕

12/12/2024

F•O•U•R Y•E•A•R•S

Four years ago today, The Polka Dot Pup opened its doors for the first time. I can’t believe it’s already been that long! Many of you have been with me longer than that, too. Thinking about that I am filled with such an overwhelming amount of gratitude for you all. For being flexible when I had a baby, moved, had a sick kiddo, and more. For trusting me with your pups, for telling your neighbors about me, for the endless amount of Dunkin’ iced coffees, and for staying a minute to chat and catch up each time. I am so, so lucky in that I truly look forward to each and every appointment, every single day. Going to work never feels like work! I’m really excited for another great year with all of you 🐾

So, thank you times a million for growing with me! These three little goof balls thank you, too! ♥️

📸: ELBE Photography by Lauren Broderick