The Polka Dot Puppy Paw-tisserie and Boutique

The real story behind The Polka Dot Puppy Paw-tisserie and Boutique is simple: Lily and Sunny's mommies couldn't bear to leave them alone at home all day long.

Business Team Leader Stefanie Murray can be reached at 734-994-6932 or smurray@annarbornews.com.

So instead, Lily the Golden Doodle and Sunny the German shepherd now rule the roost at the Polka Dot Puppy, a new dog toy, accessory and treat shop in downtown Dexter. The store is owned by Dexter neighbors Tina LaFleur, a former nanny and Lily's owner, and Julia Kesten, Sunny's owner and a former paralegal.

"We love our dogs and we really wanted to find a career that we could take our dogs to," LaFleur said.

The idea to open a store was born during last year's pet food safety scare, when dozens of animals died after eating tainted food. LaFleur said that after researching what ingredients went into making dog food and treats, she and Kesten wanted to "provide a safe and healthy alternative to grocery store brands."

Polka Dot Puppy opened earlier this month in a 1,000-square-foot space where a boutique used to be, between the Dexter Pub and a barber shop.

Plates of colorful doggy treats get Lily's attention at The Polka Dot Puppy.

LaFleur said she and Kesten emphasize organic and local products. The shop sells toys, leashes, collars, bowls, clothes, treat jars and homemade treats. Merchandise lines include Planet Dog, Simply Fido and Ruff Wear. A Dexter woman makes leashes and collars for the store.

The women hope to make Polka Dot Puppy a hangout for people and their pets. The shop serves Starbucks coffee, offers wireless Internet access and has a handful of tables inside.

The Polka Dot Puppy will soon carry pet food and more cat items, and it accepts special orders. LaFleur said community events are planned, including free monthly lectures at the store and future doggy fashion shows or costume parades.