Dog groomer opens shop on Port’s Grand Ave.

Ashley Pierringer recently launched a dog grooming salon that offers owners the chance to learn how to clean their four-legged furry companions without making a mess at home. 

“I knew the need would be here. I consistently have three dogs per day,” said Pierringer, who opened Ashley’s Pampered Pets at 237 W. Grand Ave. on Sept. 4.

Pierringer said she offers grooming sessions by appointment and also provides owners with the option to wash their pups themselves in self-grooming tubs.

“You can leave the mess here,” she said, noting she provides the shampoo and tools for cleaning. “A lot of people try to do it in the shower at their home and it can freak the dogs out.

“I knew there was a need for a comfortable self-wash where people can actually learn about their dog, have tools to use and learn the proper way to bathe them.”

Pierringer said she has flexible hours but recommends making an appointment so dogs don’t have to wait for the spa treatment. She said owners can call ahead to use the self-wash stations if their dog takes a dip in Lake Michigan.

“I don’t want this to be a daycare and I usually notify the owners about 15 minutes before I’m finished to pick up their pet,” she said.

The Port native has been in the grooming business for eight years. She previously worked in insurance for Ansay & Associates and later moved to Colorado. 

Pierringer recently moved back to her hometown to be closer to her family.

Pierringer said she always wanted to own her own business and work with dogs, but didn’t want to be a veterinarian. 

“I thought being a dog groomer would be the next best thing,” she said, noting she has two dogs of her own. 

Pierringer said she is planning on holding an open house in a couple of weeks to introduce more people to the business. 

When she isn’t busy clipping away the fur, Pierringer said she enjoys rock climbing and attending grooming shows to learn more about the practice.

“I always want to learn more tricks of the trade,” Pierringer said. “This has been a dream come true.”