As we continue building out our new space at Camp Ruff It, we’ve been spending time reconnecting with local businesses that share a similar approach to care.
Not just in what they offer, but in how they think.
One stop that stood out right away was Kriser’s in Glen Ellyn where we connected with store manager, Jill and her team.
If you’ve ever popped in quickly, you might think of it as a well-stocked pet store with high-quality products. But after spending time with their team and getting a more in-depth look, it became clear that there’s a lot more intention behind what they do.
The team walked us through their approach to nutrition, enrichment, and overall care, and what stood out most wasn’t just the products on the shelves. It was the knowledge behind them. Every recommendation had a reason. Every product had a purpose.
There’s a level of thoughtfulness there that you can feel.
One of the areas they’re especially focused on is grooming, and not just as a service, but as an extension of a dog’s overall health and comfort. Their setup is clean, calm, and designed to create a low-stress experience, which is something we care deeply about as well.
They’ve also built something really interesting with their “Build a Bowl” program, which allows pet parents to customize meals based on their dog’s specific needs. It’s a more flexible, more personalized approach to feeding that moves away from one-size-fits-all and toward something more intentional.
And then there are the details.
One of the things that stuck with us was a gift basket they had put together. At first glance, it was beautiful. But once they explained the thought behind it, it became even more impressive. The toys were chosen in blue and yellow, colors dogs can actually see, making them more engaging and easier for dogs to interact with.
That level of consideration is what separates a good experience from a great one.
It’s easy to carry products. It’s harder to curate them in a way that actually makes sense for the dogs using them.
That’s what Kriser’s is doing well.
As we prepare for our Preview Party on May 2, we’re excited to have Kriser’s involved as part of the experience. It’s a natural fit. Not just because of the products they offer, but because of the way they approach care, education, and the relationship between dogs and their people.
