Like a true fashionista, Zeke seemed eager to get his blueberry facial and new coif before donning his chic black-and-white coat. He achieved his classic look after visiting Dogish, the new Newtonville canine shop and groomer where clients come out looking – and smelling – their best.
Susie Ryerson recently started Dogish with her sister Melissa Wessels, who is in charge of ordering merchandise for the retail side of the business.
The two Newton residents decided to open the independent shop during a serendipitous visit to Caffè Nero in Newtonville. While there, Wessels noticed an empty storefront and, after contacting the realtor, realized that “It needed a lot of work,” said Ryerson.
However, Wessels added, “We really loved the challenge.”
As for what drew them to the space at 300 Walnut Street, Ryerson said, “Newtonville specifically really spoke to me.” With so many dogs out and about with their owners, “There was a clear need” for a dog store and grooming business.
“I want to be part of the community in which I’m living,” she added.
The sisters have also been dog lovers all their lives. “They’ve always been part of our family,” said Wessels, who is “mom” to Willow, a golden retriever. Ryerson is the proud parent of Athena, a 9-pound terrier.
Although this is the first time the sisters have owned a business together, Ryerson has been in the dog industry for 30 years and owned a grooming business in Chicago for 20.
Time for some pampering
While some pups enjoy a good scrub, others may be apprehensive, and that’s when Ryerson’s years of experience play a key role in calming them down.
“I get them, and they get me,” she said. “We want [dog clients] to enjoy it … we want them to say, ‘Oh, yay! It’s my spa day.’”
Ryerson spreads out her appointments so people and their pets get her full attention without other pups there as distractions. “When dogs come into a grooming salon … it’s a little nerve-wracking for them,” she said. “The most important thing is keeping a really calm store.” After all, “people are handing over their ‘children’ to you,” she said. However, “once they trust they’re in a safe situation, they just fall into the grooming situation.”
After a dog is lifted into the tub and gets a refreshing wash – including the blueberry facial – it is rinsed, towel dried, and then dries out even more in a comfy kennel. Afterward, the pooch is given a stylish hairdo on the grooming table. The entire process takes about three hours, she said.
When Ryerson is in back grooming a four-legged client, Wessels and another staff member are in front, handling Dogish’s retail side. For canines needing warm clothes for winter, the sisters have jackets by Pupia and Fabdog. If pups are feeling a bit peckish, they can try 2 Dogs Treats. Owners can try leashes, collars, and toys made by German brand Band & Roll.
While some family members might be concerned about opening a business together, the sisters were not worried that running Dogish would impact their relationship.
“Susie is my favorite person in the world,” said Wessels.
“And Melissa’s mine,” said Ryerson with a smile.
Dogish is located at 300 Walnut Street in Newtonville.
