At Central Bark, co-owners Kim Malmquist and Theresa Scheuern have one primary goal:
‘To ensure that all aspects of the grooming process are a positive experience for pets and parents, and to produce the prettiest dogs in Oakland County.?
That goal is achieved through lots of attention to detail.
The pet grooming spa, located at 1575 S. Ortonville Road, is a clean, sanitary environment. The safety of pets is the utmost concern. Dogs are trimmed and dematted while on an elevated table and are not allowed to jump down, they are lifted. Two groomers are always present when the dog is on the table, as well as when they are bathed, which is done with a Hydrosurge System.
‘We truly love pets and they can certainly sense that,? said Malmquist, formerly of Kim’s Grooming. ‘We are always gentle and patient and do everything we can to make them safe, happy and stress-free.?
Central Bark tailors the grooming experience to each pet’s individual needs. If a dog hates the forced air blowdryer, the groomers will fan and towel him dry. Special techniques are used for older pets who may have arthritis or other health conditions. A dog who has separation anxiety can be done quickly to relieve her stress.
A buzzer system will soon be installed, as the front door is often locked for safety reasons, due to the proximity of M-15.
Pickup and delivery of animals (the spa also accepts cats) within a 3-mile radius of the spa is also available for a small fee.
Appointments are preferred at Central Bark but walk-ins are welcome and immediate appointments are made available for ’emergencies,? such as dogs that have fleas, have been skunked or have rolled in something with a bad odor.
Malmquist and Scheuern care for client’s pets as if ‘they were our own.? All grooming, with the exception of bathing, is done in a front room where passersby can see through a large window. Pet ‘parents? are welcome to stay and can even assist if they want to.
A full-service grooming at Central Bark includes brushing, dematting, bathing, cut, trimming of the pads, sanitary area and toe nails, cleaning and plucking of the ears, a final trim to American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standards or owner specification and the final touch of bows or bandanna and perfume.
‘It’s fun to take a dog that’s in terrible need of a groom and turn it into a prince or princess,? says Malmquist.
The spa also offers a ‘Neaten Up? or a shampoo only, for lesser costs.
Central Bark will have an ‘Apprentice Program? this year. Individuals who want to be in the grooming business can learn to handle a dog in the bathing environment, prepping a dog for a bath, bathing and drying the dog, as well as clipping nails in a beginner class. In an advanced class, dog grooming will be taught.
‘Doggie Day Care? continues to be offered at the spa for $6-$10 per day. Malmquist and Scheuern will keep pets during their hours of operation.
‘Our biggest joy is when a dog comes running into the shop because he can’t wait to see us,? Scheuern says. ‘But who wouldn’t want to go where you’re loved, petted, kissed, hugged and told you’re the best dog in the world??
Look for Central Bark at the Greater Ortonville Area Chamber of Commerce Business Expo., April 21.
To make an appointment at Central Bark, 1575 S. Ortonville Road call (248) 627-5100. Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., evenings and Sundays by appointment.