RONCEVERTE W.Va. (WVDN) – When it comes to grooming our four-legged friends, choosing the right person involves careful consideration. To be a successful dog groomer, one must have both love and respect for their canine customers. In August, Shyla Smoots opened Leo & Friendz Pet Care as a way of turning her love for animals into a successful business. “I’ve been working with dogs and animals for 11 years now,” Smoots says. “I decided that I needed to venture into owning my own business, but my love of animals is what really motivated me.”
As a new resident of Greenbrier County, Smoots relocated all the way from Washington State and plans to make a home and build her business in this charming community. “So far, the response has been pretty overwhelming for me,” she said. “This has always been a dream of mine. I want to thank customers for trusting me with their furry family members, and I look forward to a bright future here in Greenbrier County.”
With plans to expand her business by offering mobile dog grooming services, Smoots is eager to offer customers a convenient option for pet care. “With mobile grooming, I can venture out further into Greenbrier County,” she said. “I will come straight to their door. Everything I need is in the van, from the water to the tub. This will be full curb-side service.” While trying to stay within a 20 mile radius, Smoots admits that she may be willing to travel further but prices will vary depending on location. “Mobile grooming will be 4 days a week with one day a week at my home base in Ronceverte,” she confirmed.
Smoots’ other dog Garnyt
When asked how she handles an anxious dog, Smoots didn’t hesitate. “When I have an extra anxious dog, I tend to have a lot more patience and understanding because I know it’s never the dog’s fault. That’s my philosophy,” she said. A typical grooming session with Leo & Friendz Pet Care lasts 1.5 to 2 hours on average, but may vary depending on the size of the dog and the services requested. Customers can choose between a nail trim, dog bath, de-shed or groom and are welcome to bring any medicated shampoos that have been prescribed for their pet. “I also use tea tree shampoos that help with sensitive skin,” Smoots added.
As a pet parent herself, Shyla Smoots chose a business name inspired by a little one who holds a special place in her heart. “My business is named after my first dog, my little Leo, who is 10 years old and a Pomeranian / Chihuahua mix,” she said. When asked to reveal what she liked most about animals, she replied, “My favorite thing about animals is that they never judge you.”
As a cage-free, one-on-one groomer, Smoots is careful in scheduling animals so that no conflicts arise. “I will usually have one household or one dog at a time, meaning if you have several dogs that live together in the same household, you can bring them in together,” she said. “Otherwise, I typically work with one dog at a time.”
Within the next few months, Smoots hopes to begin offering mobile dog grooming services. Until then, she will continue to operate with weekday appointments at her Ronceverte location. “So far, I’ve re-booked every client and everyone seems happy with the service. They’re excited for me to go mobile,” she said.
Leo & Friendz Pet Care is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 681-418-3714, email LeoAndFriendz@yahoo.com or visit them on social media by searching for Leo&Friendz on Facebook.
