Maggie's Munchies is a Doggie Delight

Since 2001, Barbra Rosny has been running Parked Ridge-based Maggie's Munchies. Rosny's home-based business sells handmade dog treats online and through various farmers markets, including ones in Park Ridge, Wheeling, St. Charles, Palatine and Grayslake.

A lifelong Park Ridge resident and Maine South graduate, Rosny got her business experience from her father, Chester, who opened Park Ridge Auto Repair, 316 Higgins Road, in 1945.

"I worked for my dad when I was in high school," Rosny said. "I pumped gas, swept floors, ran parts. No, I didn't learn a lot about cars, but I did learn everything business from my dad. He didn't teach us how to change oil or a tire because he always thought he would do that for us. And he did.

"My dad taught me the fine aspects of how to run a business," Rosny said. "How to manage your employees, the day-to-day-operations. One of the most important things he taught me was no matter the weather, circumstances or situation your business always needs you to be there."

Rosny said she named her business after her dog, Maggie, a Fox Terrier-American Eskimo mix. She also uses Maggie's image as her company's logo.

So, where does Rosny make all her dog treats?

"We have a second kitchen and we make everything there," she said. "I love to bake."

Rosny said she got the idea to start making dog treats after her sister came home from a local farmers market. She showed Rosny the treats and said, "You can do better."

"She really encouraged me," Rosny said of her sister. "She knew I like to bake and I love my dog."

You can find Rosny's homemade treats on her website here, or by visiting the farmers market when in season.

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