A dog groomers offering spa treatments and a “car wash” for pooches is set to open following a £60,000 refurbishment.

Partners Kerry Jewiss and Claire Stevens are in the process of completely transforming the former Hair Care salon in Higham, between Gravesend and Strood.

Kerry, who is a qualified dog breeder and trainer, said: “This is a brand new venture for us. We have gone right back to the bare bones and refurbished the building so it is all bespoke.

“I have run a business for a while now but I always worked out of my home. I have always wanted a premises.

“We were thinking of opening up a day care but I was looking for a lot more space and nothing was coming up in the right location.

“When this came up it took me around 48 hours to decide if we could make it work. It is what I have always wanted to do so we went for it.”

The co-owners, who have been together for 11 years, said they ended up traveling all over the county to provide the best products for their three chocolate Labradors Nala, Flo and Belle so wanted to bring that closer to home.

Kerry, 46, added: “We are going to create the ultimate experience for pets. We are so excited. I love a challenge, it does not frighten me to do something new.”

The store, Happy Tails, will primarily be a pet supply store with a dog spa and grooming service.

It will offer a wide range of food and treats for four-legged friends, including a pick-and-mix station of natural treats, pet supplies such as toys, leads and beds, medical products and personalised gifts such as pet portraits.

There will also be an outdoor ‘wash and go’ shower area so dog walkers can clean their pets before taking them home, with shampoo, brushes and towels provided by the store.

Kerry added: “Most importantly, we will be providing a warm and welcoming store for pets and their owners and aim to cater for all their needs.

“For those who just need a therapeutic dog cuddle, our dog mentors Nala, Flo and Belle will be behind the counter to brighten your day and help wag your troubles away.”

Hair Care salon closed in January after hairdresser Irene Cater hung up her scissors and sold the shop.

Happy Tails is hoping to be open in July.