Doggie in window enjoying a bubble bath

“Your Love . . Our Tubs” is a slogan for a new consumer service and a first of its kind in the area. Are you able to figure out what kind of a business it is? It’s new, original, fills a need and when you learn what it is you’ll be amazed. Located in Delmont, people are coming from all over the area to use it. One woman travels from Lower Burrell (a good 25 miles) and is a regular customer. Here’s the story about the great spirit of an entrepreneur at work and her new service.

Kathy Hallstrom is the entrepreneur and her business is, well, let the story tell you. Earlier this year she and her husband Bob were in South Dakota (their home state) to be with Kathy’s dad during a hospital stay. One day Kathy and her aunt were out driving when the aunt said, “My daughter took her dog to a self-service dog wash”. Kathy had never heard of such a thing, but a light went off in her head. She and Bob were looking for a business to start and they love dogs. In fact they have six dogs and one that have been in their home for more than twelve years. When Kathy heard about a self-service dog wash, that’s all it took to get the wheels moving.

Barking Baby’s Bathhouse in Delmont’s Salem 22 Plaza, Route 22 is the result of that conversation with her aunt. A brightly lit, cheery and clean as a whistle self service dog wash, Barking Baby’s Bathhouse has everything to wash, cleanse and dry your dog or cat in about 20 to 30 minutes. Kathy’s timing for this service couldn’t be better. Although self-service dog washes are growing on the west coast, it is relatively new to Pennsylvania. To our knowledge, there is only one other independently owned self-service dog wash in this area and it is located in Pittsburgh. We found three more in eastern Pennsylvania.

Barking Baby’s Bathhouse is a service for those who find washing dogs and cats a task. With working families and little time, it can take a half hour or more to wash a dog and more time to cleanup the big mess. In cold weather you may end up using the bathtub or large sink inside the house. And cats? Forget it. They hate water. Who needs these aggravations when you can grab the dog or cat and run down to a self-service dog wash? And, you can go on your schedule as a walk in. No appointments necessary. Everything is all set up for you when you arrive and it is just a matter of walking your dog or cat to the bath and start washing. Salem 22 Plaza is a small hometown plaza that makes parking easy and only a few steps to the door.

When you enter the store, Kathy or her husband Bob or daughter Kathy will meet you. It’s a family business and it has that personal feel to it. We’ve become accustomed to going into chain stores that lack a personal touch. Not here. You’ll get all the attention you need and Kathy says they even make special accommodations for pets that don’t socialize well with others. One customer uses the back entrance to bring her dog in to avoid conflict with other pets. Muzzles are available if necessary.

Kathy with one of her pet dogs

I was struck by the ease of washing your pet. With inexpensive pricing starting at $8.50 for dogs less than 50 pounds (if you have a second dog, it is half price), you get a hydro surge bathing system that is easy to use. In addition to the easy waist high bathing system, you are supplied with everything you need, all part of the single fee. They provide several different types of shampoo to choose from that offer less residue, including, if needed, a medicated cleaner and deodorant. They also provide eye wipes, ear wipes, professional eye protection and professional dental wipes.

I’ve got to tell you the one thing that caught my eye [and beats all] is cologne for your dog. I never imagined putting cologne on a dog! I suppose if your dog is dating, it could make a difference! Of course, when you have shampoos like Green Tea and Oatmeal, cologne probably is to be expected. After all, aren’t our pets the kings and queens of our home?

What about cats? Cats may be washed tethered or if needed placed in a cage that in turn is placed in the hydro surge bathing system. The special tubs are wait high and have easy access ramps for your pet. There are two stainless steel tubs that are available for bathing that are higher and require no bending at all.

Washing your pet is a cinch. There is an apron at each bath for you and combs and rakes. You put your pet in the tub, tether the pet with the available hook and tethering strap. You fill the tub with a half inch of water; put a small amount of shampoo at the base of hydro-surge; point nozzle toward bottom of tub; press foot switch once and release; adjust water flow as desired; wash pet starting at the head area; rinse pet using the hand held sprayer; and, drain tub while rinsing your pet. There are plenty of hand towels available to use after the high velocity dryer. The average wash is 15 minutes.

Barking Baby’s Bathhouse offers other services in addition to self serve washing of your pet. Hairy Hounds Grooming Salon is inside the Bathhouse and is available by appointment. They do not use cages, sedatives and serve all breeds with all grooming styles and techniques including de-shedding. A variety of shampoos and Scents are available.

Barking Baby's Bathhouse Store Front in Delmont

Another very handy service is an in-store mini kennel that provides the convenience of a few hours of shopping at nearby stores and restaurants. You can even wash your pet and have them baby-sit your pet. Another service is accessories such as collars, leashes, and gourmet dog treats. A special accessory is the hand made Memory Boxes for your pet. Kathy’s cousin Warren designed and built these that bring a very personal touch for your pet.

If you have a pet you must visit this great service. You will not regret it. Inexpensive pricing, friendly service, walk in anytime during their hours, no clean up after the mess, and 20 to 30 minutes you are out. To encourage your visit, go here to get a coupon:

http://www.pittsburghsaves.com/adPage3.cfm?catID=140&adID=312

Barking Baby’s Bathhouse Salem 22 Plaza (Route 22), Delmont, PA 724-468-3437 http://www.barkingbabysbathhouse.com/ Hours: Tuesday 10-6; Wed-Thurs 10-8; Fri 10-6; Sat 9-5; Sun Noon-5 Closed Mondays and Holidays

Watch the interview with Kathy and see her demonstrate how you use the self-service wash: http://www.alle-kiskitoday.com/webcasts/1597