By MOLLY DAVIDSON / Staff Writer

MT LAUREL—Before opening Lucky Dog Grooming and Boutique in Mt Laurel, Magan and Alyssa Hall didn’t consider themselves “dog people.” Although the pair own three dogs of their own, their business happened almost by chance.

“It was kind of an accident, really,” Magan Hall said with a laugh.

Now, the two own the bustling shop on Olmstead Street in the heart of Mt Laurel, specializing in custom cuts and unique dog clothing, toys and treats.

Head groomer Alyssa Hall’s career began when she took a position as a bather at PetSmart shortly after moving to Alabama from her home state, New Hampshire. Through PetSmart, Alyssa Hall received training as a dog groomer.

After nearly three and a half years at PetSmart, Alyssa and Magan Hall decided to go into business on their own, and that is when they discovered Mt Laurel.

“We got out here and we’re like, ‘Wow, this place is amazing!’ It’s just such a cool place,” Alyssa Hall said, highlighting the community-feel and walkability of Mt Laurel.

The Halls opened Lucky Dog Grooming and Boutique in August 2014, and have quickly become popular among local dog owners, seeing nearly 15 dogs each day. As the head groomer, Alyssa Hall does custom cuts for each dog, based on each owner’s wants and needs.

“Alyssa has been able to hone in on her skills,” Magan Hall explained. “Each breed has a breed-standard cut, and we modify it from there.”

Each dog leaves Lucky Dog Grooming and Boutique squeaky clean with a great cut, and a unique gift.

“We try to do little things that stand out,” Magan Hall said. “We try to customize bows and bandanas (for each dog).”

“We try to make things convenient,” Alyssa Hall added, explaining Lucky Dog Grooming and Boutique will take care of dogs beyond their appointment time to accommodate pet owners with a busy schedule.

Pet owners can also stop by the shop’s boutique to pick up something unique for their furry friend. Lucky Dog Grooming and Boutique carries everything from handmade collars and dog bowties to home-baked treats.

Each item in the boutique was handpicked by the Halls and tested by their own dogs.

“We don’t even bring it to the shop until our dogs have tested it,” Magan Hall said. “We try to make sure the stuff we put in here is high quality.”

Located at 33 Olmstead Street in Mt Laurel, Lucky Dog Grooming and Boutique is open Tuesday-Saturday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, visit Luckydoggroomingandboutique.com.