After sitting empty for the past eight years, the building that housed Ray Johnson’s Fish Market at 113 East Main Street will get a new lease on life with a completely different kind of focus on animals. The online-based Woof! Downtown Pet Care, operated by Matthew Goldstein and Ian Estep, is opening a brick-and-mortar business known as Moss and Bark.
“The business took off overnight,” explains Goldstein. “Ian resigned from his corporate job in 2013 to help manage the growth. With increasing demand for our services, the downtown residential boom, and an opportunity to expand our business, we determined that opening a brick and mortar location was the ideal next step.”
The front parking lot is being converted into greenspace with a 1,100 square foot enclosed play area with portholes for looking inside, and the decor will utilize a lot of natural elements including the namesake moss and reclaimed wood (bark).
“Moss & Bark will offer dog daycare, grooming and guilt-free boarding,” says Goldstein. “Guilt-free boarding means that dogs are only crated at the owner’s request. Otherwise, dogs will sleep and play in an open space, which will be staffed 24/7. In addition, Moss & Bark will provide birthday party packages, where customers can reserve space to host birthday parties for their pets.”
Goldstein expects Moss and Bark to be open in August, and he an Estep are very excited about opening day.
“Both of us grew up with dogs and appreciate the joy pets bring to one’s life,” he adds. “Moss & Bark represents a lifelong dream to manage a reputable business the community would be proud to support. We’re excited to launch this next chapter in our lives and bring a truly exciting pet care experience to Columbus.”
For more information, visit www.woofdpc.com.