Interview with Kenya Bayne, owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: I have always loved animals. After college I worked as a clerk at a large retail pet store, eventually studying and becoming a groomer. I found the strict time constraints inherent in the “factory grooming system” did not allow me to spend the time I felt I needed to provide the very best in grooming services for each and every dog.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: I have specifically set up my shop to be intimate and accessible. I have a healthy self-service clientele and I like to be able to be available to explain the best way to use the quality products I provide. I provide everything needed in the self-serve area: ear cleaner, eye wash, face wash, shampoo, conditioner, towels, brushes and driers. In the full-service area, I indulge my pet “clients.” Some of my regulars are more comfortable with the same grooming area each time. Some don’t like the kenneling process or have other phobias. I learn my clients and make them as comfortable as possible. I do not offer costly and unnecessary “spa services.” Everything is included in the price of the groom. My only “add on” costs are for teeth brushing, skunk odor, fleas, ticks and/or extreme matting or dirt. Every dog is unique and I treat them that way.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: I love seeing the progress in my regular dogs. I follow them from puppies well into old age. I have a St. Bernard client who used to have to be cajoled and bribed to come into the shop and now he walks himself in and settles down like he belongs here. There’s also a shih tzu named Jake who loves it here so much that, at times, it’s hard to get him out the door. I am a perfectionist, so I love seeing how fabulous each dog looks when leaving my shop.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Probably the biggest challenge is getting pet owners to understand that grooming is not a treat — it is a necessary part of maintaining your dog’s health and well-being. Another challenge is getting owners to understand it’s not just a bath! A dog coming to Purr Y Paws is taken care of from nose to tail. This includes nail trimming, paw pad care, ear cleaning, tooth care … along with the bathing and styling.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: That we offer a “dry run” service, which encourages people with puppies or pets with grooming issues to come in and become familiar with the process by taking them through the motions of a groom. We will put them in the tub, allow them to sit on the grooming tables and turn the driers on and off to get them used to the sound. We also offer a selection of high-quality foods and all our bandanas are handmade. We also offer interim grooming services to brush out or demat your dog in between full grooming.
Profile
Business: Purr Y Paws
Address: 10441 S. Parker Road, Parker
Hours: 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday
Founded: 2005
Contact: 720-851-0312;
Employees: 2
