Dog lovers Eric and Dana Peterson of Highland think the world of their furry family member. As concerned pet parents, they want to ensure the safety of the food and products they use — especially in light of such recalls as the one on Chinese imports that caused kidney damage and killed countless cats and dogs in 2007.
So when Dana — ready for a career change — and her husband, a special education teacher, chanced upon a vacant retail site in Rhinebeck, the idea for Dexter’s Dog Boutique was born. Named after their 3-year-old rescue mutt, the tiny shop in Montgomery Row sells only American-made and Valley-sourced dog food, treats, toys and more.
Because buying local for a pet has perks.
“The closer you are to the source of the ingredients in the pet food you buy, the more likely it is to be pure and healthy,” says New Paltz veterinarian Dr. Michele Yasson. “Products made in the USA have much higher standards than other countries,” she adds.
Dexter’s stocks additive-free Cow Tubes (trachea) from small Midwestern farms, naturally-shed deer antler chews, colorful canine costumes for the holidays, and handmade leather collars from Heart Hill Leather in Rhinebeck.
“Something we pride ourselves on is helping customers choose the appropriate collar or harness,” says Peterson. “We allow a dog to try on any of them and will help adjust the harness or collar to the perfect fit.”
And dog treats — like those from Coast to Coast Dog Treats in Stormville — are made with simple, organic, human-grade ingredients. “We’ve even tried them ourselves,” says Peterson.
So the next time you hit the trail with your dog and hunger strikes, you can share his treats — if he’ll let you get your paws on one!
