Offering creature comforts in the South End

ON THE JOB

June 19, 2011|By Cindy Atoji Keene, Globe Correspondent
  • Kathi Molloy lets Tank try out a paw cooling pad at Bark Place, the dog wash she opened two years ago in the South End.
Kathi Molloy lets Tank try out a paw cooling pad at Bark Place, the dog wash… (Kayana Szymczak for The…)

Boston’s South End has a dog park, doggie bakery, dog walking services, and doggie day cares. Kathi Molloy figured it was the ideal spot for a dog wash.

Two years ago, Molloy opened Bark Place on Washington Street, a do-it-yourself dog wash and pet boutique that appeals to owners tired of cleaning the bathroom after cleaning Fido. Molloy’s inspiration was her experience with Norwegian elkhounds, a breed with a thick, coarse coat that requires regular brushing, and when showing them, frequent baths.

“It’s harder for the water to penetrate this very furry dog, so washing them was a killer for my back,’’ said Molloy. “My bathroom was a complete mess.’’

Aren’t pink toenails for dogs a little over the top?

Doing the nails is part of the grooming process, and we’ll include that as an optional service. When the royal wedding came along, some owners wanted white, red, and black nails to match the colors of Kate and William.

What goes into a place like Bark Place?

The flooring in the playroom is made from recycled rubber and is gentle on dogs’ feet; we built blow dryers into the wall so they are quieter; and the tubs are accessible without having to lift the dogs.

Do you do frequent de-skunkings?

We don’t get a lot of “skunkings,’’ but there are plenty of other grooming necessities: mud season mishaps; the pungent combination of saltwater, sand, and wet dog after beach days; dogs rolling in waste.

Is it true dogs look like their owners?

Yes. We have the pit bull owner with ink on the arms and a skull and crossbones leash; the frou-frou gal with the shih tzu and little bow in the fur.

What are some of the hottest trends in the pet industry?

All-natural foods and treats. Grain free is also a trend, as many dogs seem to be allergic to certain grains. The bottom line: Nothing is too good for pets.

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