Ann Crowner

What inspired Ann to become a Stylist-

"I founded The Bark Spa to create a safe, professional, one-on-one experience where dogs feel genuinely cared for. Our philosophy, "Humanity over vanity" guides every service we provide - prioritizing comfort, kindness, and each dog's overall well-being. I wanted a place where pet stylists share the same values of high-quality grooming and wellness care. I saw the need for a higher-level dog grooming experience centered around gentle handling, skin and coat health, and a peaceful environment for every dog."

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Ann created The Bark Spa Burlington family in 2020, in January doing thera-cleans until Sarah finished grooming school..

With expert training, certification and passion, Ann approaches each appointment as both an art and a relationship — focusing on comfort, beauty, and trust.

 

Professional Background

• Experience: Owner Since January 2020

• Certifications & Training: 

  • Certified pet CPR and First Aid Instructor

  • CPACO - Certified Professional Animal Care Operator

  • RCIS - Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist

  • RT(R) - Registered Radiologic Technologist​

• Signature Style: My approach centers around building trust through one-on-one attention. I want every dog to feel relaxed, understood and safe from the moment they walk in.

• Favorite Breeds to Work With: Each dog brings a new personality - so I honestly can't narrow it down to a breed.

 

Philosophy & Approach

Ann believes that luxury pet care means giving every dog the very best - the best products, the best experience and the best care. My heart is huge, and I pour that into everything we do. Luxury isn't about being fancy; it's about being thoughtful, gentle, and using high-quality products that support each dog's health and happiness.. Their goal is to ensure every dog leaves feeling pampered, confident, and loved. They do so by helping the dogs feel comfortable by getting down on their level, using a calm soothing voice, and creating quiet environment. .  Whether working with anxious pups, senior dogs, or show breeds, Ann takes pride in tailoring each session to the individual pet’s needs.

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Their favorite part of the process- "My approach centers around building trust through one-on-one attention. I want every dog to feel relaxed, understood and safe from the moment they walk in."

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Their at-home tip for pet parents- "My biggest tip for clients would be to spend a little time gently touching and checking your dog all over (we call it a snout to tail check)- their coat, ears, paw pads, armpits, etc. This not only keeps them used to being handled during grooming, but also helps you notice mats, debris, lumps, bumps, or anything unusual in their coat/skin before it becomes uncomfortable for them."

 

Personal Touch

When Ann isn’t transforming pups at The Bark Spa: I also own Bark & Play Daycare and Suites in West Burlington. I also work part time in the cardiac catheterization lab. I love to spend time with my family, friends and my own pups and husband. Making memories are the most important thing in the world to me. I love to travel, learn new ways of life and try new food - if you ask me - I probably have some sort of getaway planned..
Their own pets:  We have 3 rescue dogs at the moment! Patchie (who is the logo) is around 7 years old and loves humans, Bugsy is our min pin / chihuahua mix that is our special needs boy, and LuLu is our silly schnauzer mix who loves to be the center of attention.

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Fun Facts

Favorite (human) Treats: Definitely a little caffeine - tea or coffee - but limit is 2 for the day. I love fruits & vegies, clean protein bars, greek yogurt, pecans. Dirty chai, anything pumpkin, any smoothie.

Favorite small gift: I'm easy - a card makes me smile

Favorite Local Shop: any local business

Something that brightens my day: People laughing or singing while they work