I have been going to Smelly Dog with my two dogs since it first opened. I adored the original owners and was skeptical when I found out they had sold. Both times since new ownership have been pleasingly good. The new owner has kept most of the staff, is friendly and tries really hard. I think that she may be new to retail though. The first time I did self-serve; the staff helped set up and did plenty of check-backs. The next time was for grooming and I was satisfied with the result. I know it was a tough groom because there was something sticky on the dog's front legs. I wasn't charged extra (though I tipped well) and it was clear that my shy dog was happy there. Give Smelly Dog a chance. They really love dogs, will take good care of them for a reasonable price, and will figure out the retail end of things pretty quickly.