The Ridgewater College Veterinary Technology Program in Willmar is set to host a dog wash and microchipping event on October 25, 2025, from 08:00 to 16:00. The event will take place at the Vet Tech Department, with entry through the Vet Tech Paws and Claws Clinic. Participants can pay using cash or check, and while appointments are encouraged, walk-ins are also welcome.
The dog wash service offers tiered pricing based on the dog’s weight. Costs are $15 for dogs weighing 20 pounds or less, $20 for medium-sized dogs weighing between 21 and 49 pounds, and $25 for larger dogs weighing 50 pounds or more. Each wash includes minimal grooming and brushing. Additional services include microchipping for $35, nail trims or anal gland expressions at $10 each, mat removal starting at $10, and pet tags for $10. Full grooming services are also available, with prices determined on an individual basis. For appointments, interested parties can reach out by calling 320-222-8268 on weekdays or emailing [email protected].
Community Support Initiatives
In related community efforts, the Kandiyohi County Food Shelf continues to provide vital food assistance to residents in need. Located at 624 Pacific Ave. S.W. in Willmar, the food shelf operates from 10:00 to 15:00 on Monday through Wednesday and from 10:00 to 12:00 on Thursdays for in-person pickups. Curbside pickup services commence at 08:00 each day and run until 15:30 on Mondays and Wednesdays, 17:00 on Tuesdays, and 13:00 on Thursdays. Clients are encouraged to bring their own bags, boxes, or laundry baskets to carry their food.
In an effort to enhance firefighter safety, the Chippewa County Corn & Soybean Growers recently donated SoyFoam to local fire departments, including those in Maynard, Clara City, Montevideo, and Milan. Similarly, the Pope County Corn & Soybean Growers provided donations to fire departments in Cyrus, Glenwood, Lowry, Sedan, Starbuck, Villard, and Kensington. Made with soy flour, SoyFoam is recognized as the first and only Greenscreen Certified Gold fire foam that contains no intentionally added PFAS, known as forever chemicals.
The Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council has championed the SoyFoam initiative, encouraging over 40 soybean counties in Minnesota to contribute this innovative firefighting foam to their local fire services. This campaign aims to mitigate the risks faced by firefighters, who are nearly 10% more likely to develop cancer, a leading cause of death in the profession.
With a shelf life of 10 years, SoyFoam remains effective even after being frozen or heated. Its compatibility with existing firefighting equipment and comparable pricing to traditional foams make it a viable alternative for fire departments seeking safer options.
These community-focused events and initiatives highlight the ongoing commitment to improving local welfare and safety in Willmar and the surrounding areas.