Country Bark & Bath is a dog grooming salon at 87 Lowry Road in Bombay, Franklin, South Auckland, about three minutes off the motorway. It is run by Rhonda and her partner, who have spent years in grooming, including five years as franchise owners of a salon in South Auckland. The salon offers grooms, bath and blow dry and mini grooms, and dogs can stay for the day in a secure, purpose-built play area during a grooming booking, with fresh water available. The website says day stays are subject to a check that the dog suits them. The salon works in a cage-free environment and describes itself as a sustainable salon. It follows National Dog Groomers Association of New Zealand guidelines, and its staff attend pet first aid courses.
Customers say the work is thorough and skilful, including for a consultation with paws tidied and a little clipping on a collie. One owner says Rhonda listens to what they ask for and grooms as requested, and that their Shih Tzu cross came back looking fantastic after its second full groom. Another says Rhonda is very good with dogs and produced summer cuts to keep a dog cool. Owners also say the dogs like the play area.