NYC Groomer ‘The Dogfather of Harlem’ Helps Cash-Strapped Pet Owners Through the Pandemic

A groomer in New York City found a creative way to help pets whose owners have taken a hit from the coronavirus pandemic.

Brian Taylor, owner of Harlem Doggie Day Spa, started a “pup relief fund,” CNN reports. Loyal clients have purchased gift cards to support  the business and help others care for their pets. So far, Taylor has raised $2,000 and helped a dozen pet owners.

“Every month I’ve been giving two or three clients free grooming services,” said Taylor, who goes by the nickname “Dogfather of Harlem.” “In many cases the pets’ fur is severely matted because they’re well overdue for grooming.

Grooming has been a saving grace for Harlem Doggie Day Spa during the COVID-19 pandemic. The business provides daycare, boarding and walking, but had to put those services on hold when the state of New York forced non-essential businesses to temporarily close, CNN reports.

In July he plans to take his grooming efforts on the road, lending a hand to pet owners across the U.S. He’ll do an eight-day tour in his grooming van.

“Hopefully, in every city we can give away free products and teach people to reduce matting,” he told CNN.