Freshen Up Fido, Donate to Charity

Dog owners know that their faithful friends can get pretty messy. From rolling in the mud to tearing up the trash, it can seem like Fido just wants to walk around a big, sloppy mess of muck. Luckily, this Sunday, May 6, , 9620 Willow Lane, in Mokena is hosting a do-it-yourself charity dog wash to benefit Heartland Service Dogs.

The event, which will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., will cost $15 to wash a dog and 15 percent of all retail sales will be donated to Heartland. There will also be a groomer available for owners who wish to have their dog's nails clipped.

“We do get quite a bit of people in [for these events],” said Tami David, a representative for I'll Be Doggone. “We're pretty booked, we're not booked up, but we do have quite a few already set up. Which is really good because of all the money that's going to go to Heartland Service Dogs.”

Heartland Service Dogs Director Linda Fox said service dogs are mainly used as mobility dogs, which can help a person walk more steadily or get up if they fall. She added that some dogs are also used for people that are hearing impaired. 

Her hope is the dog wash will help cover the costs of government not-for-profit application fees, rent for training class space, training equipment and more.

Those interested in signing up for the dog wash before the event should contact I'll Be Doggone at 708-478-7730.