In 2020, Jennifer Teneyck and husband John launched Pawgrass Mobile Dog Spa, which brought dog grooming services to pet owners’ homes. It has been — and continues to be — a success, the most obvious reason being its convenience.
But speaking with her customers, Jennifer Teneyck discovered another reason so many preferred the mobile service. About 95% revealed that they didn’t like simply dropping their canines off at a spa in the morning and then have their beloved pets held in a crate until later that day.
So, when the Teneycks realized it was time to open a brick-and-mortar version of their business, they came up with a new concept. Dogs would have their own rooms, where the groomer attends to them from start to finish.
“It’s like a little suite,” said Jennifer Teneyck. “They can just run around until ‘mom’ comes.”
Customers have expressed their satisfaction with this idea.
“It’s less stressful for the dog,” Teneyck said. “That’s important, because it is very stressful to be in a cage all day waiting around.”
Pawgrass also offers pick-up and drop-off services for clients who are unable to visit in person.
The spa offers a wide range of services, some specific to the breed. There are full and mini grooming services, bath services and several add-ons. And every spa comes with a blueberry facial.
“We use a wonderful, professional line of products,” Teneyck said, adding that these are also available for purchase in the store’s boutique, which also includes a “doggie treat bar.” Here, customers can purchase leashes, collars, bowls, toys, all-natural dog treats and more.
On any given day during normal hours, one or both of the Teneycks will be on site while alternately taking out the mobile spa three days a week.
Jennifer Teneyck completed grooming school in 2006 in New York and went on to run her own grooming shop for several years before the family moved to Florida. Her career has brought her a lot of happiness.
“I love making relationships with the dog and the client,” she said. “I just love what I do, making the dogs look clean and beautiful.”
The new stationary salon opened Jan. 13. In addition to the Teneycks, Pawgrass Dog Spa employs a receptionist and has four groomers. It is located at 250 Solana Road, Ponte Vedra Beach — that’s in the Winn-Dixie plaza. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.
Services are by appointment only. Call 904-532-3235. The website is pawgrassdogspa.com.
The Teneycks are planning a grand opening “yappy hour” from 4 to 6 p.m. March 25.
