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Pawsatively purrfect: Whidbey Island groomer expands to Anacortes

Published 9:22 pm Sunday, May 10, 2026

Posh Puppies opens second dog and cat grooming location, alongside mobile grooming

Sometimes, the best decisions just seem “destined to be” – good news for local dog and cat owners, whose favorite Whidbey Island goomer has expanded to a new, second location in Anacortes.

Posh Puppies, voted best groomers on Whidbey Island for eight years running, has welcomed furry friends of all varieties in their Oak Harbor grooming salon since 2017. But with pet families driving from far afield to take advantage of the team’s decades of collective experience, many on Hidalgo Island began asking if owner Laura Thompson might consider a second location.

After searching for a suitable spot, the stars aligned when Reyna, her Oak Harbor manager, purchased a home in Anacortes, at the same time that the ideal Commercial Avenue location came available. Space for their custom grooming, self-wash and retail areas was essential, but perhaps most important was ample parking, away from the busy street to keep excited pups safe, Thompson notes.

“We had a clients driving down from Anacortes and San Juan, so it was a really natural fit for us to find a great storefront for us to set up shop,” Thomson says.

In Oak Harbor, assistant manager Shelby steps into the manager’s role, while Posh Puppies’ mobile grooming also continues, bringing their trademark service to you.

Building on a successful eight years in Oak Harbor, Posh Puppies has opened a brand new location in Anacortes.

Why do families trust their pets to Posh Puppies?

For many, it comes down to their approach and experience.

“There are a lot of groomers in the area, but we’re different – we take our professionalism and the ‘business’ side the grooming very seriously. Clients see that in the cleanliness of the space, the customer service, and the education and experience of our groomers,” Thompson says.

Recognition doesn’t happen overnight, she adds: “We’ve worked really hard for a lot of years to earn that trust.”

And then there’s the atmosphere provided for pets and their people. Dog or cat, their priority is to provide pets with a safe, comfortable experience every visit, says Thompson, whose two golden retrievers are frequent guests.

“The dogs notice, as well as humans, when they come into a professionally run, safe space – they know they’re going to be well cared for,” she says. “Our groomers spend a lot of time with the animals, and because of their experience, they know what a dog needs in that moment or if they need a break.”

Browse a selection of accessories for your four-legged friends in Posh Puppies’ retail area.

Life-long grooming

A significant feature setting Posh Puppies apart from some big box groomers is its welcoming of dogs of all ages and needs. While some decline dogs after age eight because of perceived liability concerns, for example, Thompson’s groomers believe care is essential for senior dogs to help them live a long, healthy and happy life.

“Elderly dogs still need to be groomed and their families are so grateful that we can help them, and in a setting that feels welcoming and safe.”

The rewards of those life-long relationships can be profound. “We see dogs from when they’re puppies until their last days, which can be both happy and sad. We are, in many ways, part of that extended pet family. We become so close to these fur babies – the bond is pretty incredible,” Thompson reflects.

For dogs with other special needs – perhaps they’re anxious or reactive – groomers can make accommodations, such as appointments at quieter times of day, or recommend other techniques for a more soothing experience.

“Our groomers have all been here such a long time and they’re so knowledgeable – I’m so thankful to have such a fabulous crew.”

For those who prefer to tackle grooming themselves, both locations offer a separate self-wash area outfitted with all the supplies. “We have everything you could possibly want!”

Posh Puppies, in Whidbey Island and Anacortes, offers dog grooming, plus a self-wash area and area.

And they groom cats, too

While we often associate dogs with a day at the “spaw,” many cats enjoy the benefits of a professional grooming, too. Posh Puppies’ cat groomer offers appointments on Sundays and through a mobile service. “It’s such a different dynamic than with the dogs, but I’ve seen her work – she’s like a cat whisperer,” Thompson says.

A business rooted in community

For Thomson, a hair stylist by training and an entrepreneur by passion, building a successful business that supports pets and their families while providing well-paying local jobs has been the ultimate reward.

“I love building businesses. I’m an entrepreneur at heart and watching businesses grow brings me joy,” she says. “At the same time, being able to support the community is important to me, why Posh Puppies also sponsors or supports a lot of local events and fundraisers.

Visit Posh Puppies in Anacortes at 3320 Commercial Ave., call 360-299-3820 or book online here.

Visit in Oak Harbor at 239 NE Midway Blvd., call 360-279-9777 or book online here. Learn more at poshpuppies.net