The bow-wow idea began several years ago, when Shapard started making dog-themed gift cards to give to friends and family during the holidays.

"I've always liked to draw and do creative things," Shapard said. "The cards were just a creative thing I would do for people every year."

But, at her friends' encouragement, she decided to turn the gifts into a small business venture.

Friend and Willow Glen resident Gloria Knapel, who urged Shapard to market the gift cards, said receiving her friends' handmade creations has become a cherished holiday tradition.

"Maggie has given us cards over the years," she said. "And they are truly keepsakes. We save every one. And I kept telling her, 'These are beautiful. You need to start your own business.' They are made from love, and every picture tells a story."

With several different varieties, each card depicts Willow Glen pooches playing with friends, dressed up for the holidays or just looking cute. One of her cards features Satchel, the stud of the park, flanked by two of his admirers. Another card shows two golden retriever friends who grew up together. And some cards display dogs that have passed on to the great dog park in the sky.

"[The cards] represent memories that we have all shared together," Shapard said.

If Shapard is the Da Vinci of sorts of the dog card world, then 9-year-old Australian shepherd Bailey is her Mona Lisa.

"She's my muse," Shapard said. "She entertains me, and I am inspired by that."

And Shapard also credits Bailey for helping her make friends after she first moved to Willow Glen.

"When we first moved to Willow Glen, we met people at the park," she said. "A lot of the cards are inspired by these friendships."

Although the cards only debuted in the store three weeks ago, Gussied Up Dog Boutique owner Kimberly Lipsett said they have already generated some buzz.

"People are excited about the cards," she said. "They're very cute. And it's really fun--people come in and recognize the dogs."

And since humans aren't the only ones who appreciate holiday gifts, Gussied Up offers numerous ways that dog lovers can spoil their favorite pooch. Dogs can chow down on one--or several--of their elaborately decorated treats, bite into a new chew toy, or parade with pride in a fancy carrier.

For her first holiday season on Lincoln Avenue, Lipsett predicts doggy outfits to be a top seller. The store features knit sweaters, parkas, fur coats and even Santa suits all designed for dogs.

"Dogs get so much attention when they are dressed up," she said. "They start wanting to be dressed up all the time."

And, in a dog-friendly community like Willow Glen, Lipsett said the holiday spirit infects pups and people alike.

"Everyone wants to include the family dog in Christmas," she said.