So, I was in the store today and was chatting with one of the guys (James) when we randomly got onto the topic of a few negative reviews about Wiggleyville on this site. He mentioned how upset he was and how this was very disconcerting to him. I told him he must be imagining things as I have seen the reviews for Wigglelyville and they had all be very on spot and very positive. But, lo and behold, here I found the offending items and decided to finally join up JUST so I could counteract them with this review. First off let me say that I can't believe the absolute mediocrity of Maggie and Scott's reviews. Get a grip! The amount of energy it took you to write that could have been spent doing something useful like saying please or smiling. Expensive? Are you joking???? This place is one of the best kept secrets in all of Chicago. They have the highest quality merchandise for the most reasonable prices I have ever seen. All the food is American and all natural, all the bones are chosen with care, and all the toys are fun and well made. Not one item in that store has be haphazardly picked. The utmost care and concern is put into every product (which I've heard the staff explain a million times). It's obvious to me that you're either jealous because you don't have the money to spend or that you're just plain dumb wasting your money on crap from Petsmart. Which ever the case, you really DON'T deserve Wiggleyville or the right to even judge them. Note to Maggie: Go ahead and stick to the Dollar Store and when a tragedy happens like lead poisoning don't wonder why. If you were so "dotting" you'd know better. Silly, unneeded items? What's that about? It just so happens that small dogs do reside in Chicago and require jackets, sweaters, and bags to get through the year. 2 small dogs make up my family and I have no problem with making sure they have the best. But, the best does not mean "silly." Wiggleyville offers me timeless and classic small dog items (think J Crew or LL Bean) that don't make my boys or me look ridiculous. As a matter of fact, it's the only place my partner will let me buy from since he knows the stuff won't just fall apart. Now, I realize that it is hard sometimes to remember that there are other people in the world but try to keep it in mind; Wiggleyville caters to countless different needs and wants and not everything is suitable for every dog (or I guess cat). BIT#%Y????? There is not ONE person on that staff that is bit#%y. Everyone of them put tons of love and thought into what and how they do things. They are intelligent and well informed and gifted with animals beyond belief. They are the only people I know that my dogs will go right up to besides me or my partner! Now, it is possible that one of them may have been having a bad day. We ALL have bad days that make us short and bit#%y with people; maybe that was the case. Maybe YOU were bit#%y and rude thus causing such a response? Did you ever consider your own actions? But, regardless of the damage to their reputations, you go and label 4 really wonderful individuals as something they are not nor ever will be. Very mature and very kind of you. You best wonder what others say about you. "People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones" Bottom line? Wiggleyville is a fantastic store with fabulous people. They will help guide you, teach you, and provide you with everything you could need and then some. I have been to many other stores in my area (Four Legs, Soggy Paws, The Houndry, Petsmart) but they just pale in comparision. It's not because these other stores are bad, they just don't have the same amazing vibe as Wiggleyville nor the same education. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion and the right to express it, but being so negative? That's just sad and such a waste of energy. I'm glad I found out about these slanders and I hope my statements are helpful. Just go to Wiggleyville and you, too, will believe everything I've had to say. Note to Travis, James, Alex, and Hollis: Keep doing what you're doing. You are a welcome and outstanding addition to Lakeview and to Chicago and we are all so blessed to have you! -Danny, Jack, Pepper, and Tiny read more

I have been a customer of the store since they opened. At first, I thought their prices were high but they're really not. They're not because of the high quality of food and accessories. It's the difference of buying brand x at your local grocer versus a highly nutrious food from Trader Joes. The owner, Hollus, after talking to me time and time again, finally convinced me that the food my pug was eating wasn't the best and was adding weight which was impossible to shed. She pulled out her books, calculator, more books, and came up with the number of calories my pug needed. Well, he's into his new diet now for 3 yrs and went from 33 lbs to 24. He's 12 and his vet says he's like a pug half his age. And, he looks incredible! Because he gets a more fullfilling diet of high quality and no grain, he doesn't eat nearly as much as the Iams he was on before. He's not skinny either, just very healthy looking. Since he eats less, I'm actually saving money! He used to eat 1/2 can a day + 1 cup of kibble. Now it takes him 6 days to eat a can + 3 days to eat a cup of kibble. See the difference? He used to eat all that filler and was always hungry. Now he eats a lot less and gets all the nutrients that his body needs to stay healthy! (and he poops great too!!) I see people and their dogs all the time and always notice their collars/harness and leashes. It's obvious which ones are better made (and purchased from Wigglyville). The Wigglyville accessories last thru all kinds of weather. So maybe I pay a bit more for quality rather than replacing it every 3 months with a lower priced item from a box store. My pug has had the same leather leash for the last 3 yrs and it's still got lots of mileage in it! And his harnesses have kept up as well. You get what you pay for. Wigglyville products are safe for the environment and the dog and last thru years of wearing. Even the poop bags they sell are environment friendly - they are biodegradeable. And I love the cat litter they stock. My cat has never been so happy! It's also environmentally friendly! Yes we're fans of the store. Simply because they have made a significant difference in my pets' lives. That difference has extended their lives to be happy and healthy. I for one want to keep them alive and happy for as long as possible. If you care about your pet, check them out. You might not be sold immediately but if you frequent the store often, you will learn so much! Each trip is a learning experience for us. I thank Hollus and her husband Travis everyday for my dog's and cat's excellent health!! read more

Wow! That's it, just WOW! This store is really impressive. I went in today for the first time because a girlfriend told me I HAD to go in and poke around. I'm not a big fan of "boutiquey" places so I was skeptical. Plus I had read the reviews on here and noticed there were a few not so nice ones. But, let me tell you, from the moment I walked in until I left, I had the very best experience possible. I have no idea what these bad reviews are about. The store is beautiful! It's clean and inviting and the merchandise is all very nice. But what really got me was the staff. Three guys were working and there were a ton of people in the store, but each made it a point to say hello to me. Since I had some questions about food specifically, the guy who helped me pointed me in the direction of James, the store manager. This is where the "wow" really began! I have never had so much information given to me about dog food in my life! I never knew someone did as much research or had as much info as James had. He explained every aspect to me, gave me options, and answered all my questions without ever hesitating or stopping to have to consider an answer. He explained that the food is the most important part of the store and that years of research by the owner was done before ever opening. He gave me samples to try out and didn't push me into a sale, something I hate. In the end I left without buying anything because the samples were free and James even sent me home with some free treats for my little girl to try! I walked out with a smile on my face which I never expected to have. I will be back to Wigglyville and I cannot imagine shopping anywhere else now. If only all stores had this sort of customer service and environment, maybe everyone would have a big smile on their face after spending their hard earned cash! read more

I just want to say that I love this place! I joined this site just so I could write this review. I think everything they do is just so special and well done. The store has a homey feel and is very natural and almost soothing. The guys who work there are just great! They're attentive and helpful and make the whole place really inviting. They have a really fantastic selection of just about anything a pet owner could ever need. Everything has clearly been chosen with great care. I've just moved into the Lakeview area about 3 months or so ago with my husband, Mike. When I went in for the first time to check it out, the guy working (James or Jim?) showed me everything and then some. I was so impressed and excited to have such a place just 2 blocks from my door. I now have my cats on Wellness food and they look terrific. I was reading some of the other reviews and I can't agree more with most of them. I'm always greeted warmly and I'm always remembered. James/Jim has given me many suggestions over the past few months that have helped tremendously and now he has me and my husband even brushing our cat's teeth! I feel so privileged to have such a amazing store in my neighborhood and I look forward to many years of shopping there! read more

Thank god for this place! I used to go to another store by where me and my roommate live (Dogaholic), but we stopped going there because we were always ignored by the chick working. Then a girl at the dog beach told me about this place and I LOVE it! This cute guy James helped us find a collar and leash and some treats and he was really great. He explained about getting a harness later on and gave us a trainer to call when we were ready since Coco is pulling. I read on here that he wouldn't let another guy buy a toy because it would'nt last and he did the SAME thing for us! He said that this plush butterfly thing wouldn't last for our puppy and that we should invest in some rubber toys for teething. I was so happy to have someone be honest with me since I don't mind spending money but I want to spend it on stuff that our girl won't kill in 2 minutes. He spent lots of time with us and I really appreciate it. He even gave us his card and told us to call him if we had any questions. I like to only give my money to small businesses since my mom and dad owned a store since I was a kid and James reminded me why. DON'T waste your time or money going anywhere else! This place is the real deal ya'll! read more

I have been going here for almost 4 years now and am JUST writing a review.... Here is what you need to know- -staff is knowledgeable -high quality healthy grade food is available -if you don't know what your dog needs or can digest, they can help you with samples and tips Hollus, the owner, helped me through food allergy issues with my greyhound. Hollus was patient and kind as she explained what is happening inside my dog and why she reacts to certain meats. We went through many trials and she was helpful and understanding every step of the way. We finally found a food my poor pet can tolerate and finally have her IBD (irritable bowel disorder) under control. Her service to the dog and cat community is stellar! She guides her staff to know almost as much as she does and if her staff can't help you, they don't wing it to make a sale-instead, they will call Hollus and get answers! THANK YOU WIGGLYVILLE!!!!! read more

This place ROCKS! I have never found a store with a staff that is so on top of their game. So knowledgeable and explanatory, all of my questions have been answered with ease. I first started going there when it was just the owners, Hollis and Travis. Now they have these two guys there that are the best. James (the loud and funny one) helped me figure out a problem when my dog had a big stomach problem and put me on a new food. Alex (the more serious one) helped me with a harness to control my dog. Everytime I go in there, they say hey and know who I am. I like that! I wish more stores paid as much attention. I highly recommend this store. If you want a great product selection and a staff that knows about everything they carry, go here. Even if you don't live in the neighborhood, come to this store! read more

This place is really a great place. The have a huge selection of merchandise. From treats that are all natural to leashes that are designed to walk two dogs at once. (this can be tricky) I find that these people care tremendously about what they do and take great pride in their store and the knowledge they have for their products. I did find a great selection of birthday treats that were all natural perfect for my guys. It is nice to know there are still businesses that take pride in their craft and are truly enjoying what they do. read more

This is my favorite cat shop! I wanted to switch my cats to higher protein and was getting lost with all the information. The staff helped me sort through all the labels and provided me samples (when they were available) so I could test the new foods with my cats. The information and direction provided by the staff was excellent and confirmed with my vet. The variety of products makes this such a fun place to shop. I tell all my friends to go there! read more

This is a great place to get almost anything you need for your pet. I like locally owned places better than going to a Petsmart or somewhere. I have a 2 year old Maltese that I like to spoil every now and then so it's fun to pop in when I'm in the neighborhood to get treats or nicknack's for my little puddin pop. Wiggleyville is clean, bright and well laid out with a lot to offer for a small place. read more

I Have been to this place many times and I always find the staff to be upbeat and very helpful. I had purchased a leash and it was wrong size and they let me exchange it without question. I would recommend this boutique to anyone who is as picky as I am with regard to my puppies. They have a wide variety of natural dog treats and they know they ingredients without hesitation. Kudos! read more

i have been a faithful customer of wigglyville for years..it has become a neighborhood icon. the products are fantastic...good health for your animals...the people who own wigglyville and who work there are friendly and knowledgeable...they care and that is what keeps me coming back week after week.... don't pass up this great place...a part of our lakeview community read more

Who would have thought I'd find ostrich jerky and venison chips in the heart of Lakeview? My dog hasn't been this happy in years! Cool gifts, great foods, random collectibles, knowledgeable and witty staff - this place is the cat's meow. (How corny was that?) read more

The Staff is the best! They are so friendly and helpful. They always know their stuff, and if there is something they don't know, you can be sure they will find out. We buy everything for our dog there. read more

I love this place!!!!! I've taken my pug here and he goes nuts inside. The trendy dog clothes along with the unique dog toys makes this place a must see for any dog lover. Awesome place read more

Everytime I come in here I am greeted by the friendly staff. They have great things for my dog, and the prices are cheaper than large pet stores. read more

Tried again, much against my better judgement. Even worse experience. The woman who works there is seriously imbalanced. Not just rude; psycho. read more

So willing to help, no matter what it is. If they dont have it, they will find and have no problem in doing so.

Wow. Such friendly. Very knowledge. Talking about foode. Wow. Much helpful. Samples for free. Wow.