Business Name: Happy Dog Pet Salon LLC

Address: 224 South Main Street, Newtown

Owner: Kerilyn Ruggerio

What is your business background? I just opened up the salon on February 21 of this year. It took a lot of work to open, which included installing all new plumbing equipment, building my dog kennels, and a lot of painting! Before I opened up, I had been grooming for eight years, starting when I was just 13 years old. I first started working at a dog kennel, where I would help bathe dogs and trim nails. After, I decided I would like to try my hand at doing haircuts and ever since that day I fell in love with grooming. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else, but it’s definitely a bonus that I work for myself. I knew I wanted to open up my own salon, I just never could have imagined I would be so young when I did it, but I’m thrilled that I achieved my dreams at 21 years old!

What is your business’ focus? I provide grooming services for all dogs, ranging from Chihuahuas and shih tzus all the way to Great Danes and giant schnauzers. I try to keep my salon as calm as possible so dogs feel comfortable and safe with me. I built large holding pens with windows, so all my pups could see out, and I have found that makes them feel more at home. I don’t rush through any service, if a dog needs a break because they are feeling anxious, then they deserve a break filled with cookies and cuddles.

What is something that is important to you that readers know about your business? The dog’s safety and well-being is my number one priority. I will always try my best to make the customer happy, but if that means putting the dog in harm’s way, then I will explain the best I can that it’s not possible. Dogs can’t talk, so I try to be the biggest advocate for them I possibly can be. If that means a haircut will take four hours instead of two because the pup needs some extra reassurance, I will explain to the pet parent they just need a break filled with love. I would rather the dog enjoy their haircut and the time they spend with me, then speed through the process and stress them out.

Do you have any upcoming promotions, events, or seasonal specials? I will be putting out coupons in The Newtown Bee’s newspaper for the month of April.

Hours: I am open Monday through Friday from 8 am to 4 pm and every other Saturday from 8 am to 2 pm.

Social Media: @Happy Dog Pet Salon LLC on both Facebook and Instagram

Phone: 203-304-1220

E-mail: happydogpetsalonllc@gmail.com