Historic Boise building will soon welcome furry friends for business

The owners of the building first submitted application documents to convert the building to the new bath business in September 2022. Owner Rod Adams said the project was a large undertaking that required significant time and remodeling to get the former barn in good enough shape to host a business. This remodel included a complete HVAC overhaul, reorienting the staircase, and replacing the electrical, drywall, and plumbing.

“It was more labor intensive than starting from scratch, but it was really important to us to preserve the building as best we could and not grossly change the esthetics of it, especially from the outside elevations,” Adams said.

The building is not only historic, but it has sentimental value for Adams as his great uncle Paul Ashley started the AAA Sign Company out of the building in 1944. Adams purchased the building from Ashley’s grandson in 2020.

Downstairs will have seven dog wash tubs with dryers. There will also be a separate drying room for “exceptionally hairy dogs” and a grooming room in the back. Adams said he decided to pursue a dog wash business because he is an avid dog lover — his dog Hank will be featured on all of The Hydrant’s signage — and noticed there wasn’t a self-service dog wash for dog owners in the North End.

“A self-service dog wash makes it much easier in regards to you’re not trying to put your dog into your tub or your shower, and having the mess, having the hair go down to drain, having the difficulties drying,” Adams said. “It’s just a great opportunity to be able to bond with your dog and walk out with a clean one.”

Adams said the goal is to open the shop the week of July 8. It is located at 1210 W Sherman St. in Boise.