3 minute read
Creature Comforts
Meet Wag’n Tails new owner Michael O’Bryan
The new owner of Wag’n Tails may be known for his tech wizardry - he first visited the store to update the register system for beloved previous owner Melanie Parks, and is already prompting double-takes over a holographic fan that suspends the store motto - Eat, Play, Scrub - in mid air! But Michael O’Bryan is all about creature comforts, both for his pet clients and the staff he beams with pride over.
Take the new towel warmer in the popular self-service dog wash area. Michael observed the shivers of damp doggies and invested in a unit to keep the neatly scrolled towels toasty, also adding spa-like shampoos and grooming tools He has even coiled away 65 feet of vacuum tubing in the wall so that it makes barely a hum as it keeps the area clean, mindful of sound-sensitive canine clients Pet owners can now book tub time online or on the screen at the counter. He also utilizes video security to know when customer cars have arrived for curbside pick up - a great advantage during the busy summer months.
Meanwhile the staff are delighted with the new picnic bench that allows them to enjoy their breaks in the sunshine. “My team are everything to me.” Michael lights up as he describes the dedication from Manager Cody. A 10-year Navy veteran, Michael truly thrives when he is leading a team with heart “I am not motivated by money or traditional success, I need a sense of purpose with my work and it is important to me for every member of staff to feel heard For example, Cynthia was profoundly moved by a customer coming in to buy a ‘last treat’ for a furry friend, leading us to create a Loyal Friends picture wall to show that we understand the depth of the loss, and want to share in the treasured memories ”
Michael is also keen to honor past store owners and has made a fun feature of the Wag’n Tails surfboard that harks back to when Scott and Heather Grimes first opened the doors here at 945 Orange Avenue in 1999
Looking to the future, Michael has installed screens in the featured product wall and beside the dog wash to help inspire, educate and showcase meaningful local partnerships, such as with PAWS of Coronado and TrustedHousesitters. In fact, Angela Laws, Community Outreach Director for the international pet sitting site, was visiting the Coronado Chamber to renew her membership when she met Michael and the pair formed an instant bond. “It is such a great resource for pet-lovers wanting to travel,” he enthuses. “Such a win-win for every one, and every pet involved!”
Speaking of every pet, Michael actually favors fish, and is in the process of installing his 120 gallon freshwater display aquarium at the store.
“My research highlighted a need for fish products on the island, and I’m more than happy to stock or source any specialist pet needs our Coronado customers desire.”
In a nutshell (or indestructible Kong toy), Michael is a can-do guy who genuinely cares about community and is looking forward to meeting you - and your pet! -in person!
