Bark Avenue Finds Fur-ever Home in Riverview – A Tail-Wagging Success Story

Location, location, location. The real estate adage has never been truer, and it was this exact sentiment that brought Stephen Kropf and his partner to choose Riverview as the home for Stephen’s professional dog grooming business. After running his business for 19 years in Waterloo, Ontario, Stephen of Bark Avenue Professional Dog Grooming at 425 Montgomery Avenue is now thriving in his new home in Riverview. 

“Riverview is a small town with so much to offer,” says Stephen. “The best part is the people. The community is kind, welcoming, and have been so supportive of us and Bark Avenue.”

Stephen discovered his passion for grooming when he worked at a small pet store in Ontario and was asked to assist the groomer there. He knew immediately that he wanted to pursue grooming professionally, and after high school enrolled in Pets Beautiful Grooming schools, opening Bark Avenue the year that he graduated.

“I’m a creative person and pet grooming was the perfect fit. I started grooming competitions in 2011, and in 2014 I won the International Groomer of the year — an award that is voted on by fellow groomers from all over the world,” says Stephen.

The passion and skill Stephen has developed over the years is evident in the services offered at Bark Avenue. One-on-one appointments are tailored to each pet’s individual needs in a quiet, stress-free environment. Having competed at an international level, Stephen has developed skills and qualities that can only be learned through extensive experience.

For Stephen, becoming part of the community has been the best part of opening a business in Riverview. The sense of belonging alongside doing what he loves has made this new location a true home. You can feel the passion and love for his work when you see the photos of many happy four-legged clients on the Bark Avenue Riverview Facebook and Instagram pages.

In Stephen’s own words, “When you move to Riverview you truly do become part of a community. I draw inspiration from the customers I serve — both the two-legged and four!”

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