Hi friends, family, and supporters,

My name is Ash, and I’m the owner of The Doggie Lama — a small, heart-driven grooming collective built on one simple belief: dogs deserve peace, patience, and kindness. I created this space so pups could be cared for one-on-one, without chaos, fear, or rush, and so their groomers could work in a healthy and respectful environment.

Over the past few months, I poured everything — financially, physically, and emotionally — into opening our new location. I’ve been working around the clock, grooming full-time by day and building out the salon at night. I’ve covered the costs out of pocket to get us opened quickly and beautifully, because I wanted this space to be safe and peaceful from day one.

Recently, one of our groomers chose to move on unexpectedly. While I respect their decision, it created a sudden financial gap during a critical part of our build-out. Between that, the remaining contractor balance, and trying to complete the final room and bathroom, the strain has hit hard — and I’m feeling the weight. As someone who runs this business with my whole heart, I’m determined not to burn out right before the holidays. Your dogs deserve the best version of me!

I am asking for help — not forever, just for this moment, so I can breathe again, finish the work, and keep our mission moving forward without facing an intense burn out.

Your support will go directly toward:

• Finishing the final groomer suite to welcome a new groomer into the collective

• Completing the bathroom so families and pups have a fully functional, comfortable space

• Paying the remaining contractor balance from the initial build-out

• Keeping us stable through the holidays while I recover from the financial hit

Total needed: $3,850

This salon isn’t just a business. It’s my whole heart. It’s a place where dogs feel safe, where kindness is the standard, and where groomers can grow without toxicity. I’ve fought so hard to build something better in this industry — and I’m not giving up. I just need a little help getting over this hump.

If you can give, I am deeply grateful. If you can’t donate, sharing this means just as much. Thank you for believing in small businesses, in compassion, and in this little salon I’m building for our community’s dogs.

With gratitude, love, and a tired but hopeful heart,

Ash

The Doggie Lama

“Dog Bless You.”