“Groom them, and they will come.”
That was the plan when LeShae Skinner and Jean Martin opened Canine Cakes & Curls in January. As Russellville's only full-service all-breed dog grooming salon, Canine Cakes & Curls has quickly developed into a trusted business for area dog owners.
Last week, the salon was completely booked with appointments for spring haircuts, baths and grooming. Martin, who previously operated a grooming business out of her home, said Russellville was the perfect fit for their new business.
“There was a need for this type of business here in Russellvillle," Martin said. "I didn't have a shop at my house, and we were looking for an area to expand with a permanent location."
As warmer weather arrives, many breeds benefit from a summer cut down, Skinner explained. And some of their regular four-legged customers who came for grooming and baths in the winter are now ready for their spring cleaning, or shaving, if you will.
“We're averaging about 11 dogs a day. Jean does more of the cutting, and I do the bathing,” Skinner said. “We both bake, and I help her with controlling the dogs on the grooming table.”
The level of 'control' required varies from animal to animal. While a 190-pound Irish wolfhound recently made a cooperative bath recipient, the friends' biggest challenge came with a toy chihuahua who was highly displeased with the idea of taking a bath.
Martin said many Canine Cakes & Curls customers bring their dogs each week for a bath. If a customer comes on a weekly basis, a bath, dry and nail trimming is only $10. The business also offers all-natural flea baths. For dogs with skin conditions, Skinner said an all-natural medicated bath is also available.
“There are several reasons why we use all-natural products with no chemicals," Skinner said. "A lot of people can't afford to take their pet to the vet every time they turn around. Their pets may have skin conditions they don't know about. If the dog has a skin condition, chemicals can add to that problem.”
In addition to their salon services, the ladies make homemade organic dog treats, including biscuits and cookies, that are available for purchase. Cakes and cupcakes may be ordered for special occasions by calling 256-398-3020. Canine Cakes & Curls is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Toenail clippings are $5; a bath including toenails and face trim and ear cleaning, scissor-up around feet and sanitary areas begins at $15. Toenail painting is $5. And full haircuts start at $30, depending on breed and condition.
Canine Cakes & Curls hosts a monthly adoption fair for pets in conjunction with Shoals Animal Advocates. Homes are needed for adoption and fostering of dogs.
As animal lovers themselves, Skinner and Martin know the bond many pet owners have with their dogs.
“We want to provide a safe, friendly and clean environment," Skinner said. "We don't allow dogs to run around. There's no risk from other dogs. We'll treat their dog like he's one of our own. You can't really be in this business without caring."
