Detroit Barbers Founders Now Create Natural Pet Products

FERNDALE, MI — The couple behind Detroit Barbers are dipping their paws into the natural pet product market. Chad and Jami Buchanan, Royal Oak residents who founded Detroit Barbers in Ferndale (and have since expanded into Corktown in Detroit), are using their expertise in men’s care products to pamper pets. They are proud pet owners themselves and the products, like conditioning shampoos and moisturizing butters meant for pups, were inspired by their own fur baby.

“We noticed that beard balm also served as a safe and effective moisturizer for more than just beards,” said Chad Buchanan. “It softens cuticles and was safe enough to apply on dogs’ noses to protect from the drying, cold winter air.”

Leftover product from beard balm and shampoo became the base and after extensive research and development, the Buchanans crafted pet-safe, natural products, free of sulfates and parabens. Their line of products is being carried by Premier Pet Supply, another local, family-owned business.

Mike Palmer, owner of Premier Pet Supply, has known the Buchanans and their pets for years. He said he was eager to work with Detroit Barbers – and was the first to suggest they market the pet products under the barbershops’ brand name.

"We're truly excited about this partnership with Detroit Barbers," Palmer said. "Like Premier Pet Supply, they're a local company, and they recognize the importance of high-quality ingredients. Now they're giving back to local rescues. We're really proud to align ourselves with them.”

Twenty five percent of the sales will benefit the Detroit Dog Rescue, Detroit’s first and only no-kill shelter. All the dogs in their care are also provided with free products.

There’s three kinds of conditioning shampoos and three moisturizing puppy butters to soothe pet paws and skin:

· Deep Clean Deodorizing Shampoo + Conditioner – made with Mint oil
· Tearless Puppy Shampoo + Conditioner – made with Shea Butter and Coconut oils
· Flea, Tick & Mosquito Shampoo + Conditioner – made with Cedarwood and Eucalyptus oils
· Paw Butter – made with Rosehip and Argan oils
· Snout Butter – made with Shea Butter, Jojoba and Argan oils
· Wrinkle Butter – made with Shea Butter, Jojoba, Avocado and Argan oils

All products are currently sold exclusively at Premier Pet Supply, which has locations in Beverly Hills, Rochester Hills, Livonia and Novi. The products range from $12.95 for the balms to $15.95 for the 16-ounce conditioning shampoos.

Photo courtesy Stephanie Casola