07/23/2026
🐾 Meet Michelle – Owner of The Dapper Dog 🐾
Many people know me as the owner of The Dapper Dog, but my journey with animals began long before this business ever existed.
I've spent my entire adult life caring for animals. I started as a groomer at The Plush Pup in Owosso, then became a veterinary technician at Pinecrest Animal Hospital, where I continued grooming while learning even more about animal health and care.
For a short time, I stepped away from animals and worked in video production at Future Media in Okemos, but something was missing. My heart has always belonged with animals, so I returned to the profession at Frontier Animal Hospital in Swartz Creek, working as both a groomer and veterinary technician.
When our children were young, I took time away to raise our family. During those years, I drove a school bus for Byron Area Schools, a job I truly enjoyed. But once our children were grown, I knew exactly where I wanted to be—I wanted to return to the work I loved.
Opening The Dapper Dog wasn't just my dream. It was a dream my dad always had for me.
Just before he passed away, I was able to tell him my plans to open this salon. I'll never forget how proud he was. Looking back today, I can't help but smile because... Dad was right.
When we opened our doors, we had about 100 customers. Six years later, we've had the privilege of serving more than 3,000 families and their beloved pets. It has been an incredible journey, built on hard work, long days, and an unwavering love for animals.
None of this would have been possible without an amazing team. Every person at The Dapper Dog plays a role in making this business what it is today, and I couldn't be more grateful for each one of them.
Most of all, I want to thank our customers. Your trust, loyalty, and support have allowed this dream to grow beyond anything I ever imagined. Thank you for allowing us to care for the dogs you love so deeply.
And finally, there is one person who deserves more credit than anyone else—my husband, Adam.
In those early years, while I worked long days, late nights, and six days a week trying to build this business, Adam never once asked me to slow down. Instead, he encouraged me every step of the way. He helped design and build our beautiful lobby, worked behind the scenes on countless projects, and supported me through every challenge and every success.
The Dapper Dog may have my name on the door, but this dream was built with his love and support.
From the bottom of my heart...
Thank you to my staff, my family, and every customer who has believed in us. You have made The Dapper Dog more than a business—you've made it a family. ❤️🐾