The Shadow
LEXINGTON, Va. (VR) Tucked behind the currently under-construction Wawa on East Midland Trail, Lexington Pet Place continues to shine bright as it quickly becomes a cornerstone for pet owners seeking top-tier grooming services in Rockbridge County. Founded and operated by Cindi Jacobs and her husband, Fred Dufresne, the business has grown from a local pet store into a full-service grooming facility, earning praise for its expertise,
compassion, and commitment to animal welfare.
Located at 149 East Midland Trail, it’s more than just a grooming shop; it’s a labor of love. Jacobs, who has always harbored a veterinarian’s heart, transitioned from running a pet store to focusing exclusively on grooming.
“I just find it to be more hands-on, and it allows me to develop a deeper bond with the animals, which is what I enjoy,” Jacobs stated. Her passion and adoration for animals are evident in every aspect of the shop’s operation, from state-of-the-art equipment to the handpicked staff of certified groomers.
Her team at Pet Place is composed of three certified and licensed professionals. Megan, Carson, and Rayne. Megan, the most experienced, is lauded for her skill and versatility, handling everything from dogs and cats to more exotic pets such as pigs, goats, guinea pigs, and even ferrets. Carson has two years of experience and is known for her patience with even the most difficult animal personalities. Rayne also has two years of grooming experience and is known for her gentle touch and ability to work with a variety of species, and she enjoys every animal she gets to work with.
They are all three animal lovers, including Jacobs, which is why she started her business. Her dedication is reflected in the shop’s welcoming atmosphere and the individualized care each animal receives.
The shop prides itself on being a modern, well-equipped facility prepared for every need. Each groomer has a dedicated station, and the shop boasts two full-service bathing tubs and a state-of-the-art de-shedding dryer, ideal for managing the undercoat of shedding animals. The facility also features “happy hoodies,” specialized accessories designed to calm nervous dogs during grooming sessions.
Jacobs herself is close to completing her own certification, ensuring that every member of the team meets the highest standards of professionalism and care. Her new facility is state-of-the-art and possesses all the latest clippers, scissors, and accessories to be a full-service facility.
Open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Lexington Pet Place accommodates both scheduled appointments and walk-ins for nail trims. The business’s flexibility and customer-first approach have made it a favorite among local pet owners. Many clients talk about how good they are with their pets, and how good they are at understanding what hairstyles or grooming techniques work on each breed of dog.
Cindi’s business acumen and approachable demeanor have also contributed to the shop’s success. “She has a real eye for the business, and you can tell by talking to her that she is very kind and easy to work with. She is someone you would want your dog to be left with, and they’re all very knowledgeable about grooming,” Stated Sylvie Jones, a recent customer.
Animal grooming is a vital service that goes beyond aesthetics. Regular grooming helps maintain an animal’s health by preventing matting, reducing the risk of skin infections, and allowing for early detection of potential health issues. Professional groomers are trained to handle a variety of breeds and temperaments, ensuring that each pet receives the care and attention it needs. At Lexington Pet Place, the team’s expertise extends to a wide range of animals, reflecting the evolving landscape of pet ownership. From traditional dog and cat grooming to more specialized services for exotic pets, the shop’s versatility sets it apart in the grooming market.
For Cindi Jacobs, the journey from aspiring veterinarian to successful business owner has been driven by a lifelong love of animals. With a dedicated staff, innovative facilities, and a reputation for excellence, Lexington Pet Place continues to set the standard for animal grooming in the Rockbridge area. As the community grows and the needs of pet owners evolve, Cindi and her team remain committed to providing compassionate,
professional care for every animal that walks through their doors.
For appointments or more information, Lexington Pet Place can be reached at their East Midland Trail location, where pets of all shapes and sizes are welcomed with open arms. Contact them by telephone at 540-461-8314.
