10 Chicago Pet Stores We're Shopping from this Season

'Tis the season for - let's say it all together now - "supply chain issues"! If you're a human being residing in the US of A right now, chances are you've had one or two gifts delayed by circumstances outside your control. While everyone loves a good online shopping session, one of the easiest ways to get around some of its frustrations is to shop local. Since Figo is based in the Windy City, we're talking you through some of our favorite stops so you can grab goodies, gear, and more for your pets without any added stress.

1. Barks n Recs, Lakeview

When your motto is sit, stay, shop, play, you better believe visiting pups and kittens are going to have a great time. Not only can you pick up the cutest pet accessories and lots of specialty foods and treats, but Barks n Recs also offers dog boarding and daycare. Bonus: if you're planning to throw your pup a birthday party, you can actually rent out their space and bring your friends! The premium package includes cake, treats, a bandana, and special birthday hat. That is literally too cute for words.

2. Wigglyville, West Loop and Lakeview

With two locations in West Loop and Lakeview, Wigglyville proudly provides an "integrative approach to animal wellness". They boast a commitment to sustainability and offer products that promote a positive lifestyle for your pets to contribute to a long, healthy, and rewarding life.

3. Doggy Style, Ukrainian Village

This small business has a great collection of eco-friendly pet products as well as nutritious food options for your dog or cat. They also offer dog walking and grooming services from their Ukrainian Village / Wicker Park location. If you're searching for a high-end boutique with all the latest gear, Doggy Style is for you.

4. Humboldt House, Humboldt Park

This adorable boutique not only sells stunning plant care, kitchenware, and candles. It also has an adorably curated section of stylish pet goods for the trendy pet parent. The next time you're stopping in for a gift for your friend, make sure you shop a little for your dog or cat too!

5. Your Best Friend Pet Supply, Wicker Park

Image credit: Jaclyn Rivas

This shop welcomes all pets and has a pretty impressive return policy. We all know that dogs and cats can be a little picky. If you purchase food from Your Best Friend Pet Supply and your pet turns up their nose at it, simply bring back the unopened portion for a full refund - receipt or no receipt. Shoppers also love how knowledgeable and friendly the store associates are.

6. Art Effect, Lincoln Park

This Lincoln Park home goods, clothing, and kitchen shop is simply filled to the brim with cute gifts for yourself and your friends. Don't forget to stop by their pet section, which has bandanas, pet bowls, trendy toys, and more. When it comes to shopping local, this spot is one of my favorites in the city.

7. Bark N Bites, Bridgeport

Bark n Bites is all about natural treats, pet food, and more. If you live in the Bridgeport area, they've got everything you need to shop small and keep your dog or cat happy as can be. They even have some toys in stock that I've never seen at other pet stores, and given the selection we have in Chicago, that's pretty impressive.

8. Jameson Loves Danger, Andersonville

This pet supply shop doesn't just sport a quirky name. It's also a grooming spot and favorite among neighboring dogs and cats. We love that aside from selling food and toys, they also have a commitment to community animal welfare, and make a point to support charitable initiatives for shelters across the city. 

9. Tails in the City, The Loop

If you're searching for decorative dog biscuits, sweaters, and faux-designer dog toys, look no further than Tails in the City. This high-end shop is the perfect spot to pamper your beloved companions. Their large selection of gourmet cookies and doggie donuts are my (and my dog's) favorite feature.

10. Smitten Boutique, West Loop

Rounding out our list is Smitten Boutique. While it's not a pet store, this downtown gift shop has lots of adorable pet products to choose from. Custom bowls to fun toys and pet clothes, you won't run out of things to grab - we guarantee it.

Lizz Caputo is a Content Strategist at Figo, animal enthusiast, and owner of a rescued senior American Bully. Her hobbies include checking out new restaurants in her area, boxing, and petting dogs of all shapes and sizes.