Paw Purfect Pet Grooming Salon has been on the scene in St. Louis for only a little more than half a year now.
“I’ve always had a love for animals as a child,” said Paw Purfect owner, PaulSimon Cosby, age 25.
With a cosmetology license, the St. Louis native worked in previous salons and thought about how many African Americans also like their dogs to be groomed.
“A lot of people misunderstand us. We have dogs that like to be groomed, too,” Cosby said.
Even during the recession Cosby decided to start Paw Purfect. At first he worked out of his home, but then decided to expand to the current location at 6061 West Florissant Ave.
“I thought it was an ideal time for me to do something that I absolutely love,” Cosby said.
Funded by himself with family support, Cosby opened up Paw Purfect in September 2009.
“I wanted to be in the city. I wanted to be in an area where I would be appreciated, and I wanted to be able to give back,” Cosby said.
Lisa Orr, a stylist at Paw Purfect, feels the company’s services will be great for the surrounding community.
“We’re located in an area where opportunity will be great. I think this is an ideal location,” Orr said.
Paw Purfect does nail trims, provides animal daycare, flea and tick treatments, blowouts, dye jobs and basically whatever is needed. Cosby does not like to keep the dogs caged for long periods of time. Under supervision, Cosby and staff let the dogs in their care roam around for a few hours.
The theme is Paw Purfect – where all paws will be perfect.
“We do everything,” Cosby said.
“I get a satisfactory feeling,” Orr said about customers being happy with their service and how their dog’s appearance has improved.
Cosby feels blessed for what has been accomplished thus far with opening the salon and attracting good clientele from the area. Currently, Cosby is looking for another location to open another Paw Purfect salon.
Clientele is increasing monthly, with clients such as the 27th Ward Alderman Gregory J. Carter and police officers from the neighborhood bringing in their dogs to be groomed.
“Every month I see an increase and daily get new clients, and satisfied clients are coming back weekly,” Cosby said.
As a young entrepreneur, Cosby offers advice to others who may want to create their own business.
“Never cheat yourself. So if you have a goal, follow your goal – and don’t share your dreams with everybody,” Cosby said.
Cosby is grateful how far his dream of Paw Purfect has come along in just half a year.
“I count it all joy, a blessing, and don’t take anything for granted,” Cosby said. “I’m truly thankful, especially at a time where the economy was in a recession.”
For more information, call Paw Purfect call at 314-735-0404.
