ST. CHARLES – When Gov. JB Pritzker announced that animal grooming businesses would be able to reopen May 1, Doggie Divine Pet Salon in St. Charles started getting a ton of phone calls.

"We got a lot more phone calls from people who were very happy that they were going to be able to get their dog groomed," Doggie Divine Pet Salon owner Amy Radez said. 'We're fully booked up for the next three weeks."

The salon had been closed since March 21 after Pritzker issued a stay-at-home order in order to slow the spread of COVID-19. Animal grooming services were able to reopen as part of Pritzker's modified stay-at-home order.

While Doggie Divine has reopened its doors, it is not business as usual. Customers drop off and pick up their dogs in front of the store (they are not allowed in the salon) and all employees must wear face coverings.

"Our clients really don't have to touch anything, except to hand off the leash to us," Radez said. "If they want to pay via credit card, we have a handheld terminal that they don't even have to touch. They also can pay over the phone when we call to let them know their dog is ready."

Doggie Divine Pet Salon first opened in 2002. The grooming salon had previously been located in downtown Geneva before moving to its current location at 2041 Lincoln Highway in St. Charles.

Even prior to the pandemic, Radez and her employees went above and beyond in making sure the business was as clean and sanitary as possible.

"We are just more aware of it I suppose now during the pandemic," she said.

Although the shutdown cost her revenue, she has recently gained new clients. And those wanting to make a grooming appointment for their dog might have to wait until the demand dies down.

"I'm sure it's hard for anyone to get into any grooming salon right now," Radez said. "They probably will all be busy."