Taking the spots off Spot

Karen Hoover and son Austin, 9 months, watch as Kevin Hoover sprays their dog, Lily, an American bulldog, with a hose that is part of their new dog washing business Dirty Dog Dog Wash on Lodi Avenue on Thursday. (Brian Feulner/News-Sentinel)

Taking the spots off Spot

Dirty Dog aims to keep Lodi's canines clean

By Marc Lutz
News-Sentinel Staff Writer

Friday, May 2, 2008 6:10 AM PDT

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Lily is an exuberant seven-month-old with a sunny disposition and a love for everyone she meets. And, like most other seven-month-olds, she likes to get dirty. Really dirty. However, unlike others her age, Lily — a purebred American Bulldog — likes baths.

That love of baths and an entrepreneurial spirit led Lily's owners Kevin and Karen Hoover to open Dirty Dog Pet Wash in Lodi. The Hoovers are opening the self-service pet grooming business at 515 W. Lodi Avenue on Saturday.

Karen Hoover, originally from Alameda, worked for an attorney in the Bay Area throughout the week, while Kevin Hoover, a native Lodian, worked in waste management in Elk Grove. When they were expecting their now eight-month-old son, Austin, they realized they didn't want to put him in day care. When they got Lily, they didn't want to have to put her in a kennel while they were away.

Through a television program, Karen Hoover learned about self-service pet washing companies (sort of like a laundromat for dogs). The couple researched the idea and knew it was perfect.

Dirty Dog has four large tubs and four grooming tables. There's plenty of room in the tubs for dogs of any size; from chihuahuas and yorkies to great Danes and mastiffs.

While the Hoovers are working on getting a full-time groomer for those who would rather have someone else clean up their cocker spaniel, the self-service facilities will be in full swing.

"Everything is provided. You just need to bring in your dog," Kevin Hoover said as he and Karen Hoover were busy putting finishing touches on the business. There will be shampoos, conditioners, disposable toothbrushes. For a few dollars more, patrons can rent clippers and purchase the FURminator treatment.

Five steps to successful pet washing

1. Make it fun.
2. Walk your dog into the tub.
3. Tie the lead to keep the dog in place.
4. Don't make it stressful. Take it easy.
5. When all else fails, keep treats in your pocket and bribe 'em.

Dirty Dog Pet Wash at a glance

Where: 515 W. Lodi Avenue (across from the S-Mart shopping center).

Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Prices: $12 for small dogs, $15 for standard size dogs, $18 for giant or long-haired dogs, $8 for cats. Additional costs apply for multiple pets.

Information: 365-WASH (365-9274) or www.dirtydogpetwash.net (not active yet).

Source: Kevin and Karen Hoover

Each tub will have a lead tie, so that your greyhound won't make a mad dash for the door, and muzzles will be available for an overly bitey dog.

Even cats are welcome, as are aggressive dogs, though special appointments need to be made for them.

In addition to the grooming services, there will be a full line of pet products available.

"We'll carry anything from leashes to collars (to) dog and cat toys," Karen Hoover said.

Dirty Dog Pet Wash officially opens this Saturday at 10 a.m. The Hoovers will be serving hot dogs (the kind you eat, not sweaty St. Bernards) and beverages to celebrate. A grand opening will be held in June.

But it's not just a place for cleaning your pet. It's a place where connections are made, according to Kevin Hoover.

"The grooming experience is a chance to bond with your dog. They love it," he said.

Contact Business Editor Marc Lutz at marcl@lodinews.com.

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