Woodforest - BarkSuds to Unleash Tail-Wagging Transformations in Pine Market

BarkSuds, a dog grooming membership club, is set to unleash tail-wagging transformations in Woodforest's Pine Market when it opens its doors later this month.

This will be the first of three locations set to launch in the Houston area, with future openings in Magnolia and Tomball. Owned by Woodforest residents Elizabeth Fagen and Troy Kite, BarkSuds promises to revolutionize dog grooming with its membership-based model.

"BarkSuds is a membership-based club that allows us to offer a huge list of services for the lowest price anywhere," said Fagen. "But we ‘growl’ at contracts. There is no contract, so dog parents can cancel anytime! We don’t think they will want to once they experience the value BarkSuds offers them and their whole family."

Founded by Richard Landman, BarkSuds has rapidly gained popularity across the nation. The club offers a unique membership approach, allowing dog owners to enjoy basic unlimited grooming services (haircuts are extra) for a low monthly fee starting at $45, based on their dog's weight. 

"One monthly membership literally includes unlimited visits with no contract whatsoever, so you can bring your pup weekly or each time they get dirty or whatever works for you and your family," Fagen said. "For example, if you bring your small dog in once a week that’s just $11.25 per spa day! It’s an incredible deal for dog owners who love their pups and still want a clean, healthy dog, car and home without the work or the mess of doing it themselves."

Fagen said that regular grooming at BarkSuds not only keeps dogs looking their best but also provides early detection of potential health issues. Skilled bathers and groomers can identify lumps, rashes, parasites, ear mites and infections, enabling early treatment. This proactive approach contributes to a dog's overall well-being.

The initial Bath S’paw membership includes bathing, blowouts, brushing, teeth cleaning, ear cleaning, nail trimming, gland expression, deshedding and more. Upgrades, including haircuts, are available for an additional fee.

"For dog parents who want a touch-up to the face, feet and toosh (sanitary areas), we offer an upgrade called the Dapper Dog," Fagen said. "This is a service you only pay for when you feel like you need it."

For dog parents who want a full groom, BarkSuds offers the All Over Rover. Like the Dapper Dog, owners can add this service anytime they feel it’s needed for an additional charge and still bring in their pups for a weekly “s'paw” day.

All services are performed by experienced groomers with extensive training and certification, ensuring the highest level of care for every dog.

"We only hire groomers with a great deal of experience grooming, including a portfolio of dogs and cuts and excellent references from discerning pet parents," Fagen said. "We also prioritize those who have National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA), American Kennel Club (AKC) certifications, and/or those who have training from other dog grooming programs."

At BarkSuds, creating a safe and stress-free environment for pets is a top priority. Groomers and bathers use noise-reducing accessories like happy hoodies and offer amenities like lick mats and cage covers to help anxious dogs feel at ease. Most grooming sessions are completed within an hour to minimize stress for both dogs and their owners.

"Most importantly, we work with dog parents who know their pups best to do what they need to feel safe and happy because that is what we want for our own dogs, too," Fagen said.

Fagen and Kite have a deep appreciation for the art of dog grooming, inspired by their experience with their three standard poodles during the COVID-19 pandemic. Though they are not groomers themselves, their backgrounds in management and a wealth of advice from their own groomer have prepared them to lead a successful BarkSuds franchise.

"We are excited to bring that experience to BarkSuds and offer a wonderful environment for our professional bathers, dryers and groomers. We can’t wait to support them and help them thrive and grow," Fagen said. "We can’t wait to meet you and your furry, four-legged family members."

Pine Market is located at 791 Fish Creek Thoroughfare in Montgomery. The 40,000-acre retail center is set to welcome several new businesses this year including Panicafe and Pho Saigon Oldie.

• 
• 
•