Bow Wow Bath House Goes Self-Service

Don't like washing your dog at home? Bow Wow Bath House in Lake Elsinore lets clients bath their own pooches in luxury while leaving the mess behind.

Dale Pentz and his family opened Bow Wow, located at 25321 Railroad Canyon Road, in October 2010 to “fill a need in the community.” Wife Jackie and two teenage daughters Taylor and Bryce all work at the shop, along with three other employees, so the operation is truly a family affair.

Bow Wow provides the shampoos, conditioners, brushes and towels a pet owner needs, and staff offers instruction for those who need it. Bathtubs have steps that make it easy for all dogs to climb in and out, and the atmosphere is one of quiet and calm.

For clients who prefer to let others do the grooming, Bow Wow staff will do the job. There is even a drop-off service, so patrons can leave and come back to a clean pooch. Bow Wow doesn’t use kennels; instead, groomed dogs are placed in an open room to await their owners.

Pentz said he was looking for this type of shop for his own dog grooming needs but couldn’t find it locally.

“I got into this business because there is such a need for a great groom shop. We are a family friendly place, and our vision was to offer low-cost, quality, full- and self-service options. We have long hours, making it very convenient for our customers,” he said.

Hanna Urry is a member of the Bow Wow grooming staff.

“It’s fun working in the shop because we have so many lovely dogs. I love the puppies that come in and work is never boring. Each day is different,” she said.

“I am a big animal lover,” said Bow Wow groomer Jessice Diaz. “We have a great atmosphere here to work in.’

Lest one wonder how Bow Wow can keep its doors open by just providing bubble baths, the shop also sells canine shampoos, conditioners, colognes, skin care products, holistic pet food and treats, supplements, vitamins and natural flea control. Other products for sale include doggie collars, leashes, beds, carriers, brushes, toys and apparel.

The shop is open Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Bow Wow offers vaccination clinics every second Saturday of the month, from 10 a.m. to noon.