02/03/2026
A letter to our community…
Hi! I’m Hugh…
A lot of you know me and a lot of you don’t. I founded the The Doghouse LTD back in 2018 because I noticed there was a couple of things this community needed. I had a 190 lbs English Mastiff/Malamute that NO ONE wanted to groom. Also, I felt the need for a mobile groomer to take care of the senior pets, disabled pets and pets in general that weren’t able to travel in a vehicle. We were the first mobile groomer in Chaffee County. Our primary focus has always been for the care and well being for everyone’s beloved pets.
A couple of years ago I was diagnosed with a terminal form of cancer and I’ve had to step away. I’m currently stable and doing well. I’m fighting it and this community has been unbelievablely supportive of me and my struggles and for that I’m eternally grateful and blessed.
At the time of my diagnosis, all I really wanted to do was close the doors and focus on myself. However, I have an amazing staff in Arrington, Erin and Sarah. We all agreed that if they could maintain the business, schedules and relationships with our clients, I would keep them employed and the doors open. Also, should I happen to beat this thing, I would have a job to go back to.
Business has been slow. Really slow. I understand our current economic situation and someone referred to it as the, “Trump Slump.” I also understand that when times get tough, people will pinch their pennies and luxuries like dog grooming are usually the first to go. We’ve had numerous clients go from monthly appointments to 4 times a year. When these things happen, we get it and we’re okay with it. We’re always open to working with anyone who is struggling financially. Our first concern is still for the care and well being of these pets.
I also know that we’re not the only ones that this is happening to. Groomers all over the state are slow and a lot of them are struggling. Small businesses everywhere are struggling. For months we’ve been trying to save up for new equipment, tubs and tools to better serve everyone. We’re now dipping into those savings just to pay rent and bills. I’m pretty sure that my groomers are also looking for part time work to help make ends meet. We haven’t raised our rates since 2020. I haven’t heard of any complaints or any other reasons why we’re slow? Last year I was able to provide Christmas bonuses.
This is kind of my last push to save this business that I love so much. I’m dreaming of the day that I can groom dogs again. I love my groomers and I’d like to keep them around and employed. But, at the end of the day, I still need to focus on my own health without the stress of trying to keep the lights on.
To those of you that have supported us over the years, I can’t thank you enough. To those who haven’t heard of us or are new to the area, give us a chance to earn your business.
I know there’s a lot of options for dog grooming in Chaffee County and I can honestly say that I would recommend ALL of us. There’s now a couple of options for mobile grooming, and they’re all great too. If we can get things turned around, The Doghouse wagon will also be available beginning this spring. But, in the meantime, swing by and say HI to us at 115 Tabor St. Right behind the Lariat. And, as always, the best way to reach us is to call or text us at 719-530-1086
Love you all… 🙏
Hugh
