Pretty Pooch dogs are happy dogs

Pretty Pooch Paws ’n’ Spa has built a reputation for consistently good service and good value

Pretty Pooch Paws ’n' Spa owner Margie Leopold poses with her champion Siberian huskies. — Photo courtesy Margie Leopold

Pretty Pooch Paws ’n’ Spa has a long history in Cranbrook, B.C.—over 30 years, actually. The dog grooming salon was opened in 1981 by Eleanor Innes, and the business's present owner, Margie Leopold, worked there from 1987 to 1992, then intermittently for several years before Innes sold the business to her in 1998.

In the field and in the classroom

“I initially learned grooming on the job,” said Leopold. “After I bought the shop I took lots of courses and seminars so that I could update the service we offered and build the business.”

Over time, Leopold said, Pretty Pooch has built a reputation for consistently good service and good value. She ensures that her staff are well trained, taking them to seminars in Calgary or Vancouver if possible, but more often to points in the U.S., as there is more training available there.

“People know we treat their animals well because the dogs are always happy to see us,” said Leopold. “We care about dogs. We never want grooming to be painful for the dog, and we have been known to refuse to groom a badly matted animal unless the owner agrees we can take extra time. We also alert the owners if we find any physical condition that needs attention.”

Adding services

Responding to increased competition over the years, Leopold introduced retail sales of dog food and accessories. Six years ago Pretty Paws opened a doggy daycare—quite a popular addition.

“Socializing a puppy through the first 14 weeks of life is really important,” Leopold said. “Doggy daycare is a way to provide a supervised social environment for a puppy without the owner having to be present. It makes the difference between a dog who is nervous and unpredictable and one who is trainable and happy.”

In support of the local SPCA, Leopold produced a couple of calendars featuring client dogs and donated proceeds from the sale of the calendars to the SPCA. She has also introduced some fun options to grooming. If you wonder what your pooch would look like with pink highlights or a mohawk, Pretty Pooch just might be able to create this new “do” for your dog.

Raising champions

Leopold’s skill at handling dogs is known in circles beyond her client base. For years she raised, trained and showed shelties and English pointers. She now has a confirmed reputation as a trainer of championship Siberian huskies, after winning top honours in the 2012 Siberian Husky Club of America National Specialty Show in Utah.

“It’s a pretty expensive hobby,” Leopold said, “but I just love bringing out the best in these beautiful animals.”