Barbara Needham and Alex Barbara Needham grooms Alex, a 6-month-old Shih Tzu Poodle mix, at The Pampered Pooch. (Photo Beth Callaway)

Needham was hesitant to work for a veterinary hospital or animal shelter because she doesn't like to see them in pain or suffering. Instead she was prompted to start her own grooming and pet care business.

"I started grooming my own dogs about 11 years ago but never had a good location or the right timing to start a business," explains Needham. "When this location became available, it was the right place and the right time." She says she can't think of a better way to spend her day than working with animals that are fun and loving.

The Pampered Pooch offers grooming services for dogs and cats; they can get anything from a simple nail trim, ear cleaning or bath to a complete makeover. "We even give full service pedicures that include your choice of polish," says Needham.

The Pampered Pooch also provides secure, interactive daycare services. Puppy daycare is a smaller group so that staff can concentrate on continuing the animals' housebreaking and obedience training. Adult dog daycare separated dogs according to size and enthusiasm level. Dogs from 6 months to 15 years, from the size of Dachshund to Great Dane, spend time together.

Overnight boarding that is stress-free, clean and safe is also available for dogs and cats in separate areas. According to Needham: "Everyone gets lots of attention and love while they are here."

Needham is a certified professional dog and cat groomer who belongs to the New England Pet Grooming Professionals. "I am always conducting research on the newest techniques or equipment to make things easier or less stressful on the animals entrusted into my care," shares Needham. At her own home, Needham has five dogs, two cats, two horses, one bunny and several chickens and guinea hens.

"Animals have such a positive impact on the lives they touch," says Needham. "Think about all the service dogs, therapy dogs and police dogs that dedicate every single second of their lives to physically and emotionally helping people. I can't think of a better way to give back to the people and animals of our community than by taking extra special care of the animals that are always there to take care of us."

"The pet care industry has changed because the role animals' play in our lives has changed from needing animals to perform working tasks to becoming a part of the family," adds Needham. "People work more than ever today and depend on pet care providers to help them care for their animals�.

Businesses like mine make it possible to have pets with a busy lifestyle." The Pampered Pooch cares for an average of 60 to 70 dogs per week and is located at 228 Lewiston Road in Gray. Starting in October 2007 they will be giving away a monthly free doggie makeover. Simply write to The Pampered Pooch about why a dog you know should receive a free makeover.