Contigo Dogs opened in May in the Mercato at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, selling durable, eco-friendly and affordable canine accessories. It started as a project that would bridge the gap between quality dog gear and affordable, handmade products.

Owner Stephanie Dehn says, “I’m originally from Sao Paulo, Brazil. When not working, I volunteer as a foster home for animals in need, hike, travel and eat lots of vegetarian goodies. I started Contigo at one of the worst times in history; in the middle of a global pandemic. Jobless, living in my parents' basement, I figured the only way I could go was up. With my stimulus check, I poured my savings into this dream project and hoped something good would come out of it.” Today she is wholesaling to trainers, boarding facilities and shops all over the continental U.S.