I write this Easter Saturday. If you are a regular reader of my column you know that I own a pet supply store specializing in dog and cat, food and treats.

Today while helping a customer I asked her if she had noticed our Easter treats and would she like to take some home. She replied with a laugh that her dog was Jewish. That started us talking about Passover (which began today). I asked her if she knew that we carried kosher dog food. The brand is Evangers. I told her it has been made in Wheeling Illinois since the 1930's. The new owner who is Jewish, bought the company in 2002, and inquired about kosher certification a year later, after seeing a neighbor feeding her dog in the garage during Passover to keep non-kosher food out of her house. She submitted an application to the Chicago Rabbinical Council, one of a handful of organizations across the country that certify foods as kosher. My customer was impressed and said she would pass that information along to her Jewish friends. She thought it would be quite the conversation.

As I turned out the store lights to end my day and head home for the evening I glanced down at the remaining holiday-decorated dog biscuits that were not sold. When I open next they will be old news. But tonight they are special. They are adorable. . . .yellow chicks, lambs, small white bunnies, small chocolate (carob) bunnies, fancy eggs, polka dot rabbits, carrots and bunny faces with long ears. They were lovingly made by a mother and daughter team who have become my friends through our business together. I cannot let them go to waste. I gathered them up and will give them to friends and family tomorrow. Everyone will be thrilled. It is what makes my business fun. They will be replaced with spring flowers, squirrels, hot dogs, hamburgers and other new delights. The talent of this duo is amazing.

Jamie first approached me about selling her products on consignment five years ago. She was starting up her business to give an opportunity to her daughter, Abby. At the time Abby was a senior in high school and because she is disabled Jamie didn't know what she was going to do after she graduated. They had this plan of starting the Nutty Mutt Bakery. Jamie could continue her career and work with Abby in the evenings. The years have rolled by and this business has grown. As a woman-owned business and with a disability they were able to get the funds needed for a startup. They took over an old Blimpie sandwich shop and set that kitchen up with their ovens. The front part they opened to retail. They became certified with the Indiana State Chemist who oversees that the ingredient analysis is true to its claim. Now they are selling at festivals, wholesale to shops like mine and retail at their own establishment in Greenfield. They have spoiled me. I buy from others, but grudgingly and only when they can't keep up, like at Christmas. Their product is so cute. Humans want to pick them up and eat them but trust me, they are bland. No sugar or butter is added but peanut butter often is and so is chicken stock. Yuk! They are iced in yogurt which is tasty. They kept me stocked for Super Bowl with footballs, Colts horseshoes and bones with XLVI decorated in team colors. I look forward to seeing Jamie when she comes in to restock. I love to share her story because I am happy that it has given a purpose to Abby and that my business and customers have been a support. This is another example of how shopping local makes a difference. We thank you.

I will have to remember to tell Deb, my Jewish customer today, about the Star of David biscuits that we sell at Hanukkah. However, the Ginger Men are the cutest. Pets make you smile and so do loyal customers and readers. Happy Spring!