After an almost twenty-year run in Eleanor, Melinda Sowards’ Precious Pets Salon has moved home to Hurricane Creek. Precious Pets was originally located in Eleanor Circle, but has been relocated to a newly constructed building near Sowards’ home.

“I have decided to move home,” she said.

Construction on the new building started in July of 2020. The septic system was installed last summer, with the block being laid in October and November. Work on the inside started this January, and the grand opening was held on March 29. The addition of a porch with an awning is planned for this summer, and the driveway will eventually be paved.

Sowards is primarily a dog groomer, although she can clip cats’ toenails. The services she offers for dogs include cut and shampoo, conditioner, flea dip, and nail trims.

Sowards got her start as a groomer after her husband was injured in an accident and she needed extra work. Her mother and stepfather told her that they were going to open up a pet grooming salon, and she would run it. When she started working at the shop in Eleanor, she did not know anyone there except for family members. She did a lot of praying that God would send customers her way, and her prayers were answered.

“God has blessed me for this many years,” she says. “The business definitely wouldn’t be where it is without God.”

Since the move to Hurricane Creek, Sowards says that she has gained a lot of new customers from the Hurricane and Teays Valley area.

Precious Pets Salon is located at 5308 Hurricane Creek Road, Hurricane. The shop is open by appointment Monday through Friday. Hours vary by day. Call 304-586-0912 for appointments.