Dunk-A-Dog offers self-service dog wash, grooming and gourmet treats

    Marilyn Watt had one requirement when starting her self service dog wash business, Dunk-A-Dog, in Brighton earlier this summer.
    “I do not like the smell of wet dog,” she laughed. “So I said that my place will not smell like a wet dog, that I wanted it to be a cut above everybody else — I said, ‘It’s going to be clean and smell like bakery.’”

Photo by John Carr

Under the watchful eyes of Angelina Dohr, background, Tabitha Moore, groomer with Dunk-A-Dog Spa at 965 Platte River Blvd., puts the finishing touches on Lilly. Dunk-A-Dog features self-service dog washing stations and grooming tables for the do-it-youself dog fanciers as well as professional grooming services. The business also sells gourmet dog treats.

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    And it does. Watt and her husband, Jim, have taken every step to ensure the store not only offers friendly service but a clean and pleasant atmosphere.
    They opened their doors at 965 Platte River Blvd. #G in May and will hold an open house all day Saturday with drawings for free dog washes, biscuits and gift baskets. The first 15 dogs washed that day will be given free dog toys.
    Dunk-A-Dog offers four self-service dog wash stations, complete with shampoo and nail clippers and more. The water is regulated to a temperature for the dog’s comfort, so there is no adjusting needed. All dogs, from very small to very large, will fit in the stations, Watt said.
    “We had a 200-pound mastiff in here, and he fit fine, so we can accommodate any dog,” she said.
    Watt said some customers have attempted to clean up after themselves when they’re finished washing their dog, but she stops them.
    “You bring your dog in and leave all the mess to us and walk out,” Watt said. “It’s way simpler than at home.”
    In addition to getting clean, dogs have the chance to go home with a tasty treat or two. The store offers a bakery with a variety of fresh, homemade dog biscuits and will soon offer cakes as well.
    Groomer Tabitha Moore recently came on board. Moore went to dog grooming school to get certified and before joining Dunk-A-Dog, was grooming dogs out of her home.
    “I’ve always loved animals since I was a little girl,” she said. “I was the one always bringing home the dogs and cats.
     “It’s so healing,” she continued. “I love animals and have three dogs of my own. That’s what brings joy to my heart.”
    She offers baths and haircuts, teeth brushing and nail grinding all included in one package for one price. She gives discounts for three or more dogs and is also available to assist customers with the self-service wash.
    Moore has also made a vow to support the local police department, fire department and military by offering a free grooming day once a month. Dates are shown on the Dunk-A-Dog website, www.Dunk-A-Dog.com.
    Dunk-A-Dog offers a mobile vet the third Wednesday of every month from 5:30 to 7 p.m. They also offer a variety of specials, including buy five dog washes, get the sixth free. Specials are listed on the website. 
    They will also soon offer retail including crafts, collars, blankets, cookie jars and more, Watt said.
    “You name it and I’m going to find it for the dog,” she said.
    Watt encourages locals to stop by and check them out.
    “We’re really a friendly atmosphere,” Watt said. “Friendly, clean and safe.”