For many pet owners, grooming might seem like a cosmetic luxury reserved for fluffy show dogs or special occasions. In reality, regular grooming is an important part of maintaining a dog’s health and overall well-being than many people realize.
George Statler, owner of Klean K9 in Deer Park, got into the pet care business after bringing home a standard poodle puppy and discovering that bathing a growing 60-pound dog at home was no easy task. His experience at a crowded, messy self-wash facility that left both him and his dog stressed, sparked the wellness center designed to make grooming easier, more affordable, and less stressful for both pets and their owners.
“I remember thinking there had to be a better way,” Statler said. “People often think grooming is just about appearance, but it is really about hygiene and wellness.”
Regular bathing helps remove dirt, allergens, and bacteria that build up on a dog’s coat and skin. Nail trimming is equally important. Overgrown nails can affect how a dog walks and may eventually lead to joint discomfort or injury. Ear cleaning helps prevent infections, while brushing removes loose fur and reduces matting that can cause painful skin irritation, particularly for long-haired breeds.
At Klean K9, these services are part of what Statler describes as a nose-to-tail wellness check. During each visit, staff members look for lumps, bumps, skin issues, or parasites that owners may not notice at home.
“Sometimes we find things like ticks or skin problems that the owner did not realize were there,” Statler said. “When you are working hands on with the dog, you can catch things early.”
Statler also recognized a gap in the grooming industry. Traditional grooming salons are often designed for breeds that require haircuts, leaving many short haired dogs with fewer affordable options.
“About 70% of dogs do not actually need a haircut,” he said. “But their owners still need a place to get baths, nail trims, and basic care without paying full grooming prices.”
The facility offers private self-wash rooms to reduce stress and limit dog interactions, along with drop-off wellness baths that include bathing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing.
“When dogs get regular baths and nail trims, it keeps their coat healthy, reduces odor, and helps prevent bigger problems later,” Statler said. “It is really part of responsible pet care.”
Statler hopes to expand the concept to additional locations on Long Island in the coming years. For now, he encourages pet owners to think about grooming not as a luxury, but as a routine part of keeping their pets healthy and comfortable.
To learn more about Klean K9’s services, visit kleank9care.com. As a special offer for Long Island Press readers, those who mention this article can receive a free wellness visit that includes a bath, nail clipping, ear cleaning, teeth brushing, and a towel-dry for their dog.
