Step inside Tail Waggin’, the Crossroad’s pet store paradise
Merrie, Rusty + Alan — the crew behind Tail Waggin. | Photo via Tail Waggin’ PetStop
It’s officially the dog days of summer, and while we’re panting in the heat, one Crossroads shop is celebrating.
Tail Waggin’ needs no introduction for downtown pet owners. You’ve probably happened upon the shop, and its window paintings of pooches in period clothing, heading to Mildred’s for a brunch date.
Since 2014, the independent pet supply store has been a quiet staple in the neighborhood — a 10-year anniversary owners Alan + Merrie Morris celebrate tomorrow, July 18.
In the coffee shop + office culture of the West Crossroads, the pet store survives by the fur-baby revolution of apartment-dwelling young people.
“It’s about how the city wanted dogs living [here], because dog walkers create a sense of safety and community. If you’re walking down the street and pass a couple of people out walking their dogs, you’re just more comfortable,” Merrie said. “I think it’s become a signature of downtown.”
The Kitty Korner for feline fur-iends. | Photo via Tail Waggin’ PetStop
Inside the store, you’ll see it’s not all for Fido. The Morrises agree their clientele is about 50/50 cat to dog owners, so they make sure feline shoppers see cat toys, treats, harnesses, and more on its front + center shelves.
Whether you’re coming for a bag of kibble, or to use the self-service dog wash station, you’ll find Alan, Merrie, or one of their staff ready with personal recommendations (and a treat for your four-legged sidekick). Walk the aisles even longer and you’re sure to be greeted by 16-year-old shop dog Rusty.
It’s the kind of experience + knowledge you can’t get shopping Chewy or Amazon — a quality of friendliness integral to Kansas City itself.
Celebrate a decade of pooch paradise at Tail Waggin’ PetStop’s anniversary party tomorrow, July 18 from 4 to 7 p.m. Find free ice cream from The Melt Box, Pop Culture popcorn, and a selfie station fit for a King Charles Cavalier.
Can’t make it to the festivities? Come back Friday, July 19 + Saturday, July 20 for a storewide sale.
Events
Wednesday, July 17
Garment District Grooves | Wednesday, July 17 | 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | Garment District Place, 8th Street + Broadway, KCMO | Liven up your lunch break with a performance by singer-songwriter Tica Felise and smashburgers from Fill Em Up food truck.
Thursday, July 18
Sip & Glaze | Thursday, July 18 | 6-9 p.m. | Tall Trellis Brew Co., 25600 W. Valley Pkwy., Olathe, KS | $50-$80 | They provide the drinks + supplies, you bring the party.
Killer Queen - A Tribute to Queen | Thursday, July 18 | 8 p.m. | Uptown Theater, 3700 Broadway Blvd., KCMO | $39-$79 | This glam rock tribute is sure to get you singing “I’m having such a good time.”
Friday, July 19
WeekEnder | Friday, July 19 | 6-11:30 p.m. | Crown Center, KCMO | Free entry | Kick off the best night of the week with local bands, food vendors + a movie under the stars.
Saturday, July 20
Low Sensory Morning | Saturday, July 20 | 9–10:30 a.m | The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, KCMO | Free | Kiddos with sensory sensitivities can enjoy the museum an hour before it opens to the public for a quiet sesh of hands-on artmaking.
With less than a month to go before primaries in KS + MO, the KC Voter Guide came just in time. The free resource offers local + federal info for residents of Jackson, Johnson, Clay, Platte, and Wyandotte counties. Check your registration status (KS + MO) before Election Day, Tuesday, Aug. 6.
Weather
Sick of the heat? Too bad — It’s only warming up. According to climate data from the National Weather Service, Thursday, July 25 to Tuesday, July 30 is expected to be the summer’s hottest week with an 88.8° average. In 2023, the hottest day of the year didn’t hit until Sunday, Aug. 25 when temps swelled to 103°. Chill out, KC.
Announced
Q39’s signature sauces and rubs are now available over the counter. Backyard pitmasters can find staples like its brisket and rib seasoning at 100+ stores — including Price Chopper, Hen House, Hy-Vee + Fareway Market. They must have heard about the “Big Book of KC Barbecue.”
Liberty North alum Trey Snyder was picked up in the fifth round of the 2024 MLB Draft this week. But decisions lay ahead. The recently graduated shortstop will now have to determine if he’ll continue as a Tennessee commit or be developed by the The New York Mets. (FOX4)
State
Overland Park is one of 19 pilot cities in the state’s “Love, Kansas” campaign, aimed at attracting expat residents back to the Heartland. Learn how to get involved with the campaign + share your “boomerang” story at LoveKansas.com.
Real Estate
Southwest Boulevard staple Ponak’s is up for sale. The well-known Tex-Mex restaurant has operated at 2856 Southwest Blvd., KCK since 1975. No reason has been given for the sudden listing. (Kansas City Star)
Drink Up
Drink Up Week — a celebration of our city’s vibrant beverage culture — is coming up quickly from Monday, July 22 to Friday, July 26. We asked local businesses to join the fun by sharing drink deals; check out this map of promos that are poppin’ just for the occasion.
If your last credit card bill sent a chill down your spine — even in this heat — it might be time for a balance transfer. The Ascent recommends these four cards with 0% APR for up to 18 months. (You could have almost two years to avoid interest charges.)*
Seasonal
Sleigh bells ring, are you listening? It’s Christmas in July, and we’re celebrating by gifting new and returning advertisers with special promotions to get your message in front of our readers. Get in touch to learn more (read: open your present).
Shop
🌽 Break out your reusable totes
Farmers markets in Kansas City
These vegetables look simply gourd-geous. | Photo by @brooksidefarmersmarket
In the spirit of supporting all things local, we’ve rounded up seven farmers markets in the KC area where you’ll find fresh food, live music, and local vendors.
City Market will always be the staple, but I’ve added Brookside Farmers Market to my grocery-getting list. Thanks to reader Hannah V. for the recommendation + for shouting out unexpected spots like Hemma Hemma‘s bodega section.
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