There’s a narrative that’s nearly as old as business itself: A consumer is dissatisfied with what’s available in the market and starts the type of business he or she would like to patronize. That scenario is basically the backstory of Skiptown, “an all-encompassing, one-stop shop for dogs and pet parents” that is preparing to open its newest location on Arizona Avenue in Kirkwood.
Skiptown founder and CEO Meggie Williams, as a dog parent in Charlotte, North Carolina, had difficulty finding a place that offered pet services that were right for her and her dog. “Most places cater to either the needs of the dogs or the needs of the pet parents. It’s difficult to find a place that truly provides an enjoyable, premium experience for dogs and the humans who love them at the same time,” Williams said.
With Skiptown, Williams explained, she is seeking to fill the gap by giving pet parents “a place where their dogs can play and be well taken care of while they enjoy food and drinks and socialize with other dog lovers.”
The first Skiptown opened in Charlotte in 2020 and, despite the pandemic that hit that year, has been a success, according to Williams. Construction is underway at the Kirkwood location, which is scheduled to open before the end of 2024. It will be the third Skiptown location.
The 39,200-square-foot facility includes a 13,000-square-foot outdoor social yard, including a splash pad area, with what Williams described as a state-of-the-art cleaning system to keep dogs safe and healthy.
“We use a special enzyme system to clean and disinfect, which also works to kill any odors,” materials published by Skiptown state. “Our irrigation system even flushes our specialized K9 turf with a biodegradable enzyme solution.”
Skiptown also has indoor off-leash areas where dogs can play with others of similar size and temperament. The complex includes daycare boarding, grooming, dog training, 24-hour supervised overnight care and other dog-oriented services.
Daycare clients can book appointments, upload vet records, view their dogs’ visit reports and customize their dogs’ routines and preferences online. There is a valet service through which staff receive the dog in a drop-off area without the driver leaving the car.
While the dogs are enjoying a setting designed for their comfort and enjoyment, their human family members can experience a setting designed for their comfort. “The facility features a restaurant and social club, where pet parents can enjoy cocktails, wine, local beers, coffee and a food menu that includes sandwiches, croissants, muffins, empanadas and other offerings,” according to a Skiptown announcement. Furry friends can join in with pet treats, pup cups, and dog “beer” bone broth.
Williams said since opening the first Skiptown in Charlotte, she had an eye on Atlanta. “We always knew we wanted to open a Skiptown in the Atlanta area,” she said. “We love the city, and we really felt like Skiptown would resonate with the community here. Our team visited a lot, and we put a great deal of effort into getting the location right. We toured over 60 sites, and this location instantly drew us in.”
Calling Kirkwood “an amazing, vibrant little pocket” of the Atlanta area, Williams said, “We knew it was the right place.”
Williams said the community is delighted to see the site of an old office building converted and repurposed. “Kirkwood has seen a lot of revitalization in recent years,” Williams observed. “New condominiums, housing divisions, and retail establishments are springing up throughout the Kirkwood-Edgewood area. We’re positive that Skiptown is a great fit for the neighborhood,” she noted.
“Our team has worked to ensure that Skiptown has an overall positive environmental impact in Kirkwood,” Williams said, adding that the design incorporates features that assure neighbors aren’t bothered by noise. Also, she said, precautions are in place to prevent dogs from escaping the facility.
Skiptown is a membership-based facility with three levels of membership: VIP Membership, Pet Care Membership, and Bar Membership. Williams noted that as a new location, Skiptown in Kirkwood is offering those joining before the opening the opportunity to have their pup’s face included on a mural at the facility. “We suggest that those who are interested in this, contact us immediately while space on the mural is still available,” Williams said.
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