Phill and Debbie Murray, owners of the new Pet Valu location in Whitby Shores, knew all about bathing their dogs before becoming pet store owners. Especially bathing big dogs. They had their beloved Max, a Great Dane, for 12 years, and spent many an afternoon getting him cleaned up in a cramped bathroom tub – only to have the added chore of cleaning up their messy bathroom after the fact.
When the opportunity arose to add self-serve dog wash stations to their store, they jumped at the chance, knowing first-hand what a difference this service would make in the lives of their customers and their pets.
“Our tubs are elevated so you can bathe your dog at the proper height and not strain your back” says Phill of the well-designed stations, where they have thought of everything from walk-in steps and the raised tubs to convenient and safe tie-backs that ensure safe bathing for dogs of all sizes.
“We offer everything you need to get your pet looking and smelling great – from a mild oatmeal and tea tree shampoo, to brushes for all types of coats, to towels and built-in high velocity blow dryers and finishing conditioning sprays. All you need to bring is your muddy dog!”
The service has been a big hit with patrons of the south Whitby Dog Park just across the street from the store. Many park regulars are now dog wash regulars as well, stopping by for a quick cleanup on the way home from the dog park. “We know when the park is muddy by the number of people coming in for baths. Our regulars love the fact that we have a Frequent Washer Program – they get a Frequent Washer card on their first visit, and we stamp it every time they use the service. Once they’ve bathed six times, their seventh wash is free!”
The service is great for all dogs and cats, but especially for those pets who suffer from anxiety. Anyone who has an anxious pet knows the drama that can ensue when taking the pet to a vet or a groomer and having to hand them over to a stranger for the service. When you wash your own pet, the pet feels more secure knowing their owner is right there during the wash. It puts both the animal and the owner at ease and makes for a pleasant experience. Once the bath is complete, the staff at the store make sure the pet is rewarded with a tasty treat as well, which goes a long way toward relieving anxiety the next time around!
Convenience is one thing, but price is another important factor as well. Taking your dog to a groomer for a bath and brushing out can cost anywhere from $40 up to $100 or more depending on the size and breed of the dog. At Pet Valu Whitby Shores’ Dog Wash, the price is always $10 – for any size dog! So next time Fido rolls in something he shouldn’t, or has some fun jumping around in the mud or happily belly-flopping in swampy water, consider a trip to the self-serve dog wash at Pet Valu Whitby Shores. In no time your dirty mongrel will be looking and feeling like a pampered pooch.
Pet Valu Whitby Shores is located at 617 Victoria St. W in Whitby.
for more information, call 905-430-4738
