Dog Groomer Expands Vision with New Facility in Falmouth

A vision for a comprehensive pet care facility is taking shape in Falmouth, Nova Scotia. Bradley Eaglestone, the owner of The Big Fur Grooming Shop & K9 Consultations, plans to relocate his operations and expand his services to include a doggy daycare and boarding facility named The Barkshire Club. The ambitious project is contingent on a rezoning application submitted to the West Hants Regional Municipality on November 7, 2023, which aims to facilitate the business’s growth in a vacant property previously housing Bits N Bridles Tack and Feed Store.

Eaglestone, alongside partners Juleanna and Deryk Freeman, envisions a space equipped with top-of-the-line amenities designed to enhance the pet care experience. Currently operating in a cramped location in downtown Windsor, Eaglestone has outgrown his facility and recognizes a growing demand for grooming, daycare, and boarding services. He stated, “We wanted a canine epicentre that was safe, where owners could drop off their dogs without worries.”

The planning department has recommended the property be rezoned from general commercial to highway commercial to accommodate this expansion. The proposal received its first reading on January 27, 2024, and is scheduled for a public hearing and potential second reading on February 24, 2024. The planning report also suggests relaxing the current 300-foot separation distance requirement from nearby dwellings, as the property does not meet this standard.

Eaglestone has plans to employ veterinary staff for overnight boarding and increase his grooming personnel to five, along with three additional bathers. He prioritizes staff training in canine first aid and fear-free grooming techniques, aiming to create a professional environment that fosters respect and dedication. “We wanted a very professional space that stood out for the individuals who worked here,” he emphasized, noting that such an environment would enhance the care provided to the dogs.

Freeman highlighted the importance of safety and quality care in the daycare operations, ensuring that every 15 dogs would have a dedicated staff member. She pointed out that large and small dogs would be kept separate to enhance their comfort and well-being. “This is going to be their play space, they’re happily tired when they come home,” Freeman said.

The expansion plans are not just a business endeavor but a response to community needs. Eaglestone’s current shop services approximately 2,500 clients, with some traveling from as far as North Sydney and Yarmouth. He believes the new facility will enable him to cater to the rising demand for comprehensive canine services effectively.

Freeman expressed that the project is long overdue for the area, challenging the notion that high-quality pet care is only available in larger metropolitan centers. “Nobody really serves the secondary markets,” she stated, emphasizing that every community deserves access to quality pet care services.

Community support for the rezoning application has been robust, with several letters submitted in favor of the project. Darrell Church, a nearby property owner, and Cory Walker, general manager of the Falmouth Fruit and Vegetable Company, both expressed their support, anticipating that the business will attract new customers and create jobs in the area. “With everything Bradley has planned, it will be a great addition to the Falmouth business area with increased employment,” Walker noted.

Eaglestone acknowledged the overwhelming community support he has received, stating, “It has been quite honestly very overwhelming and humbling.” He and Freeman have begun minor renovations on the property while awaiting the municipality’s approval to commence more significant projects. They have been renting the property since December 1, 2023, fully aware of the hurdles they might face in the approval process.

Concerns regarding potential noise from the expanded operations were raised during the initial council meeting. Eaglestone reassured council members that they would take measures to mitigate any excessive noise should the rezoning be approved, including adding more insulation and constructing covered outdoor dog runs.

If the rezoning and land use amendment are approved, Eaglestone plans to open the Big Fur facility in phases, with a target date of mid-March for the grooming shop and plans to begin daycare services in the spring. “We want high fencing because safety is our big concern,” Freeman added, noting that the expansion is designed to foster a safe and welcoming environment for pets and their owners.

Eaglestone remains optimistic about realizing his vision for the Falmouth property this year, emphasizing the positive impact it will have on the local economy and community. “This new facility will bring new employment opportunities, local spending, and a vibrant hub that will draw pet families into the Annapolis Valley,” he stated. The project reflects not only a commitment to business growth but also to fostering community connections and long-term benefits for local residents.