There is nothing quite as enjoyable and refreshing as a day at the spa. From shampoos and styles to mani-pedis to luxury baths, a visit to a salon provides the special pampering that we need to relieve the stress in our busy lives.
However, while we routinely take the time to treat ourselves to a day of relaxation, we need to remember that our dogs also need stress relief. Our pups experience daily stressors just as we do, and they also need a way to unwind.
Fortunately, Hendersonville has the perfect place for indulging our furry friends – Bark Avenue Grooming.
Located in the Hazel Path Commons shopping center, Bark Avenue offers everything that pet owners need to provide their four-legged companions with a fun and healthy grooming experience. Recently Hendersonville Lifestyle sat down with owner Laura Thompson to find out about how Bark Avenue can keep dogs looking and feeling their best.
How did you decide to get into the dog grooming business?
“I have always loved dogs. Whenever I see a dog, it always makes me happy, no matter the breed. I have always wanted to work with dogs, and I started out with a mobile grooming unit with one groomer as a side business. However, I eventually realized that I wanted to pursue a brick and mortar location for my business. So, after teaching school for 18 years, I finally took a leap of faith and bought Bark Avenue in January 2022.”
What types of services are available at Bark Avenue?
“In our salon, we offer full service dog grooming. We can do baths and brush outs, nail trimming, deshedding and and haircuts. Our full groom service consists of a bath, haircut, nail trim and teeth brushing (if requested). We work hard to whatever the owners want for their pups.”
What are the most popular products that you offer?
“We offer grooming services, unique gifts and healthy treats. We always buy high end shampoo for our pups, including hypoallergenic, oatmeal, aloe and more.”
What are the latest trends in pet grooming, e.g. fur dyes?
“We have done dye on a few dogs, but most people just prefer specific breed cuts or a shorter cuts with a teddy bear head trim.”
What is the most significant thing that you have learned since you opened your business?
“I have learned that while we can’t please everyone, we will always work hard to ensure that we are accommodating all dogs’ needs. For example, there are times when pet owners arrive for a cut, and the dog’s coat is too matted for that. In those cases, we will do resets instead of the cute cuts that the owners originally wanted. We have also learned that we won’t do dematting on large dogs, as it is incredibly painful for them. Our approach has enabled us to have a base of extremely loyal customers, with more coming in every day.”
What’s your favorite pet/customer story?
“We are fortunate to hear many stories daily about many of our pups. For example, we have one dog that comes monthly, and the owner has her very well trained. She sits right next to him and as soon as he opens the door, she takes off running to greet us and see everyone. She loves sitting on the grooming table and looking around.”
What makes Bark Avenue special?
“Our main goal at Bark Avenue is for dogs to feel safe and loved while they are with us. We make sure to shower them with lots of kisses and hugs during each visit. We want them to always come running in and be happy to see us.”
Bark Avenue Grooming
393 East Main Street, Suite 7,
Hendersonville, TN
615.991.7272
“In our salon, we offer full service dog grooming. We can do baths and brush outs, nail trimming, deshedding and and haircuts. We work hard to whatever the owners want for their pups.”