It's a Dog's Life at the Radisson

My name is Verne and I am a dog-a-holic.

Yes, I am the proud owner of three dogs-- Toby (Cockapoo), Ty (Pomapoo) and Taz (Yorkiepoo).

Chicago just passed a city ordinance that will allow our four-footed friends to join us at participating outdoor café restaurants. The ordinance officially begins in January, so we will have to wait until then, but in the meantime, there is lots of other stuff to do with Fido (or Tabby) in Chicago (including stay at the Radisson.)

On October 14th at Navy Pier, there will be a pooch parade and a dog Halloween costume contest. Meet dog lovers from all over and enjoy an afternoon of fun and prizes!

Where to buy that special costume? I have a few favorite places.

Tails in the City at 1 E. Delaware is the place in the Magnificent Mile area to spoil your pet. If I may quote from their website:

"Tails in the City offers a compelling assortment of unique and luxurious items for dogs, cats, and their owners. The Tails in the City collection features chic pet apparel, fashionable pet carriers, distinctive collars and leads, stylish jewelry for pets and for people, luxurious beds, gourmet baked treats, terrific toys, and great gifts."

Speaking of dog-a-holics, it's also he name of one the newest pet stores in the city. Set on Armitage Avenue (917 W. Armitage) in the trendy Lincoln Park neighborhood, Dog-a-holics offers you and your pet many different services. And their great website says:

"Pampered pets come in all shapes and sizes and so do the items at Dog-a-holics. From glitzy collars to tasty treats from the deli case, Dog-a-holics is sure to satisfy your dog addiction. We offer dog couture, custom dog beds, carriers, bike wagons, gourmet bakery treats, self wash tubs, all natural food, collars and leashes, gift items and much more to help dogs and their owners celebrate their special bond."

Just down the street from Dog-a-holics is Barker and Meowsky, a Paw Firm located at 1003 W. Armitage .They have been in business for many years, and always offer top notch pet items. A quote from their website:

"At Barker & Meowsky we celebrate and promote the bond between people and their pets through fashion, humor, and art. Our toys are not only cool; they serve a particular purpose for the pet in question. We specialize in service. Tell us what you're looking for, and if somebody on earth makes it, we'll find it."

I would be remiss if I did not mention Wigglyville located at 3337 N. Broadway. Although only open a couple of years, Wigglyville has been welcomed in the neighborhood as an old friend. The owners truly acre about the health and well being of your pet, and they have the fun stuff as well. The shop is not to far from Wriggly Field, so you can pick up some Cubs memorabilia for you four-legged friend as the Cubs are on the way to the World Series.

The Radisson welcomes pets, so bring the dog or cat to the hotel and stop by and see me. I’m the one with the dog pictures at my desk.