Debby Izzo Named Small Business Person of the Year

The 24th Annual Nassau Council Chambers of Commerce Small Business Person of the Year Award Breakfast will be held on Friday, Oct. 15 at The Crest Hollow Country Club. 

This year chamber member Debby Izzo of The Dirty Dawg is the recipient of the award.

Ever since she was a little girl Izzo wanted to be a veterinarian. While having a large variety of jobs in the past, Izzo felt that nothing fulfilled her enough to pursue a full career until she started grooming. Her career started at the Willow Pet Hotel in 1992 and then moved on to Dog Grooming by Rachel where she worked for 11 years. It was now time to move forward and consider opening a business of her own. Some have asked why she opened a grooming shop in Bellmore when she lives in Suffolk County. For her the answer was simple. After working in Nassau for 11 years why would she open anywhere else? Izzo has developed great friendships with the residents of Nassau County- and their pets.

The Dirty Dawg opened in 2006 and has been building steadily. The Dirty Dawg continues to serve the Bellmore/Merrick area while gaining a number of clients that travel from as far away as Aquebogue and Connecticut.

The Dirty Dawg is a family business dedicated to their clients. Her goal is to have a small shop that gives personal and friendly service and as you have seen on her advertising, her motto is "Bring them in soiled, get them back spoiled!"

A chamber member since 2006, Izzo has served on the board of directors since 2008. She serves on various committees such as Programs and Hospitality, Beautification, Street Fair and Awards.

Izzo has had many opportunities to sponsor a wide variety of clubs, organizations and events. A short list includes: the Kennedy High School Soccer Team, the Students of Bellmore Educational Reference Folders, the Annual Strawberry Festival, Bellmore Barks and the 24th Annual Bellmore Family Street Festival. She also supports the National Child I.D. Kits and Family Lifeline. She donates time and service whenever possible to the Bellmores and surrounding communities to help keep small business afloat and prosperous.

Izzo is a proud mother of three children; Dawn, Debi and Dennis. She also has three grandchildren; Katlynn, Matthew and Joshua.

If anyone is interested in attending, notify Joni Caputo in the chamber office at 679-1875. The cost is $35 per person.