Paperbark Nature Dog Spa

Paperbark Nature Dog Spa is a dog grooming studio in Frankston that builds its whole approach around comfort, calm and a lighter footprint on the planet. Founder Jane, who holds a Diploma of Horticulture alongside a Certificate III in Animal Care Services (Pet Grooming), runs the spa as a fear-free space where light, scent and sound are deliberately managed to settle nervous dogs. Grooming is done with plant-based, biodegradable products, and the botanical washes lean on ingredients like chamomile, sage, calendula, eucalyptus, peppermint and tea tree oils to suit different coats and skin.

The experience suits owners who want a gentler, slower kind of groom, particularly anxious dogs and puppies just getting used to being handled. Familiar items from home are welcome to ease nerves, and there is even a stick library where dogs can pick out a natural object to play with or hold onto. A dedicated mindfulness and desensitisation session focuses purely on rebuilding trust through positive reinforcement, which speaks to how much the spa values the dog's emotional state over speed.

The nature theme carries through to small touches that matter, including collected dog fur being repurposed into nutrient-rich soil fertiliser rather than thrown away. A loyalty card rewards repeat visits with discounts toward future grooms.