By Jennifer Farnsworth
The former Giffy’s Bar-B-Q on Route 9 in Clifton Park is undergoing quite a change. The building is being transformed into a dog boarding and day-care franchise under the direction of owners Matthew and Marlene Beck.
The couple said they will be up and running this fall, providing services to Saratoga County as part of their Camp Bow Wow franchise.
“We have now closed on the property and construction is underway,” said Matthew Beck.
The facility will be part of Camp Bow Wow, which has approximately 140 pet-care facilities nationwide. Services include grooming, training, day care and boarding.
J. Luke Construction Co. of Schenectady is doing the work and a grand opening is expected this fall. Camp Bow Wow has an Albany location that has been very successful, said Beck. He feels the convenient location for Northway commuters and residents of Saratoga County will do equally well.
Beck said the Clifton Park site will be a smaller version of the Albany facility. All staff will have practical training in dog behavior, certifications in pet first aid and dog CPR.
Camp Bow Wow will be looking to welcome busy professionals needing pet care during the week, as well as those who are heading out of town and need a safe place for their pet. Samuel Dearth, owner of the Albany location, said they have developed a strong customer base with many loyal pet parents.
“ We currently average 62 day campers each day for the day-care service and routinely have 100-plus dogs in day care and boarding combined,” said Dearth.
Camp Bow Wow will be able to hold up to 70 dogs.
The franchise gives back to the community through the Camp Bow Wow Foundation, which offers a second chance to sick and injured dogs in need of urgent medical care. They help to provide funds to help dogs who are homeless or whose owners cannot afford to pay a veterinarian.
“We have a deep passion and love for dogs. We have been a customer of other Camp Bow Wow locations for years and love the happy, healthy, clean, safe and fun environment that Camp Bow facilities provide,” said Beck.
To learn more visit, www.campbowwow.com.