The Barkington

4.6 (178)

2907 Blue Clay Rd, Castle Hayne, NC 28429
(910) 769-3568
the-barkington.com

Claimed
Pet groomer
Dog day care center
Dog walker
Pet boarding service

From the business

  • Identifies as Latino-owned

Reviews

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Olivia Pardue

2024-04

I boarded my dog last minute, as I had to go out of town. My dog is pretty high-anxiety and I, myself, had separation anxiety as well. We had never been apart for that long. The staff were so kind, considerate, and accommodating. They worked with me so that I could pick up my dog early, and I am so grateful for that. The facility looked clean and spacious. Plus, they allow for the dog to be let out many times a day, which I appreciated. Thank you, (especially Izzy I believe her name was,) for being so kind to me and my puppy! It’s great to see a good local business ran by dog-lovers!

Amber Rimington

2024-04

I just moved here from across the country.And need to board my dogs for a couple days.I was very nervous about it due to all the trauma that my dogs have had by moving across country, moving to a new place, new home, new area. But I was put at easy by the staff by how well they took care of my dogs for the three days that they were at their facility. My dogs were able to stay in the same room together. The staff treated my dogs as if they were their own. The environment is a safe and clean environment. I highly recommend this place and I have already book our next stay to board my babies. Cause I feel safe taking my dogs to this place.

Rachel Potter

2023-11

First time getting my 1 year old mutt groomed. We found out quickly that he is stranger reactive and scared.. the groomer and the staff were wonderful and completed the job professionally, even with difficulty! I will most certainly go back again once my boy is through his training!My little tiger!

Ashley Chandler

2023-05

I had a wonderful experience at The Barkington. Shirley is a wonderful groomer. My dog got his best haircut yet and was in such a fun, good mood when I picked him up! He was not overly thirsty, which is a problem I've had at other places, and I could tell he had a fun, good day at their facility. Shirley goes above and beyond to make sure each clients dog is well taken care of and gives them the attention they need off and on her grooming table! We will certainly be back, thank you for taking care of my pup!

Michelle Vollmer

2024-04

I loved knowing my dogs were in a room with a regular bed, a TV, and a Webcam I could look at 24/7. They were happy and content when I picked them up. I am glad the Barkington offers premium boarding options. We will definitely be visiting again!

Caroline M.

2024-04

I’ve brought my dog in for daycare, boarding, nail trims, and baths and have had nothing but good experiences. The owners and staff are always so personable and North is always so excited to see them! We have been coming to the barkington for three years and it was one of the hardest goodbyes when leaving Wilmington.

Deborah Magee

2024-02

I was so pleased to learn that the owners of Barkington( Chris and Lourdes) will come to your home to trim your dog’s nails, express his anal glands, and clean his ears by appointment. I could not be more pleased with the results of my appointment. My pup, Augie, a miniature dachshund, usually requires 3 people to hold him down while he freaks out over getting his nail trim. Chris and Lourdes( with their inexhaustible love and patience) took the time to get to know Augie and make him feel secure and not threatened. They did a wonderful job with a difficult client( that would be Augie, not me) and I can’t thank them enough. I am usually not someone who writes reviews, but these folks are special and truly deserve recognition. I would enthusiastically recommend the Barkington for any daycare and grooming needs for your pup.

Olivia Shaw

2023-09

Shirley Dove is an exceptional groomer. She has been grooming my Pomeranians for years. She has been knowledgeable beyond the scope of grooming. I have recommended her to my friends with various dog breeds ( large and small) and have received exceptional feedback.

Rick Griffler

2023-05

Wow. What a great experience. I’m a new dog owner and had no idea what to expect. The groomers did a superb job. My dog was a bit nervous upon arrival but they made him feel safe and secure. He looks great and smells delicious. His nails are perfect and ears are clean as a whistle. I’m so relieved, relaxed and elated with the results and I’ll be back again and again.

paige moore

2023-05

I can not hardly express how upset I am regarding how my dog grooming was handled. He is basically bald. First, I made an appointment eight weeks out. I received an email to confirm and I confirm the appointment. I took Bogart to 8 am appointment having to get up super early on a Saturday morning my choice. I dropped him off and filled out the paperwork to have him cut. Left to go shopping only to get a call to come pick him back up due to groomer calling out. Then I gave it a second try. Except this time, I boarded him so that they would have all day on Sunday to groom him. Sunday I get a call and the guy stated he was over booked again and couldn't groom him. I made fuss so he said he would work him in. Only to have him shaved bald. He is a Bernedoodle and I am absolutely mortified he has chunks of hair not even cut. I am a Manager, a nurse, a mom and I am totally disappointed in this whole situation and the worst part recommend a friend to this place. My friends dog was cut bald too with scrapes and cuts. I am purely mortified first picture is after cut. Also, Bogart drank alot of water when he got home like had not had any.

Cathy K

2023-12

Great boarding facility and grooming. Shirley does an excellent job grooming all of the pups!! The daycare is always so fun for my girls and the cage free option for overnight boarding is awesome for them too!! Love this place.

Danielle Luczak

2023-11

Such a great experience. They were able to get me in the next day and gave Zoe the best grooming she has every had. It is very tough to find a good groomer that can handle the husky undercoat and they did an amazing job. Will be scheduling routine appointments for both my pups.

amanda smith

2024-01

We have a two year old Black Mouth Cur who is very reactive to strangers. We have not been able to board her because she growls and barks at strangers. The Barkington had us bring her in, and they were so patient. Our girl loves going there now. What a relief to have such kind and caring people to take care of our baby. I highly recommend them!

Karli Himler

2023-12

Groomed by Cindy, Kai was fully shaved which I was ok with we just moved here and he had mats. But both ears were bleeding and no one told me. Had to call then she told me that they didn’t see any blood… so sad will not be returning. Go to a knowledgeable staff who checks before returning your dog.Update: it was not behind it was at the tips due to the mats. It was when I was in the car driving that I noticed, and immediately called. Instead of arguing a call or email would have been nice checking in. Terrible customer service.

Holly Taylor

2023-12

I was so nervous to have to leave my sonshine in a boarding facility while I had a medical procedure done but the staff at the barkington put my mind at ease. My baby was happy and I knew at pickup he had a great time! I was able to watch him the entire time on the icams to also calm my nerves. We will definitely be using the barkington for any future boarding needs! THANK YOU SO MUCH TO THE BARKINGTON STAFF FOR MAKING THIS EXPERIENCE SO WONDERFUL!!

Katlyn Lowe

2020-05

Wow! What an awesome experience! I never really write reviews for places but my experience her was fantastic! This was my 7-month-old pups first time at any type of doggy daycare, and I had so many questions. Lourdes did a fantastic job quickly answering every single emailed question and reassuring me that my pup would do well!Ryker and I were both greeted at the door right at 7am and it was very welcoming. I went to pick him up at 10am and he was EXHAUSTED! He fell asleep almost instantly on the way home. Overall, a fantastic place and a fantastic experience for both me and my pup. We will DEFINITELY be back!!I've attached some pics of my pup post-barkington trip!

Hannah Geraci

2022-05

I honestly wasn't going to write a review but this experience was upsetting to me. First off, my dog went in for a nail clipping and they came out great. That's not the issue. What was upsetting to me is I told them my dog has spine issues and needs to be handled with care, my dog also hates his nails trimmed but he is smaller (35lbs) so someone can assist by holding him. I have had great groomers in previous states I have lived in that he never gave any issues to. Given he was taken to the back, I can only assume what was going on. While waiting in the waiting area I heard the groomer screaming and yelling at dogs, a big dog was freaking out (loundly barking and making a ruckus) and then I heard my poor boy screech a few times (his paws were not quicked so it had to be from something else). I wanted to run back there but I stayed were I was and waited. I was left alone in the waiting area so I couldn't even ask anybody what was happening. At one point it sounded like stuff was being thrown and I just wanted to leave. My dog wouldn't even show me his paws and is still super sensitive this morning. I will NEVER go back again due to the experience and what I had to hear.

Charlyne Boyette

2022-05

Never again!! They CUT GIZMO’s paw pad so bad it’s still bleeding after keeping my dogs ALL DAY- 7 hours- charged me twice as much as I usually pay at the vet, buzzed Gracey’s whiskers and eye brows, and did not even finish trimming Gizmo’s feet and nails!! I’m very grateful for the groomers at North College Animal Hospital now!

Julie Turley

2023-07

We had such a great experience with The Barkington! I’m definitely a crazy dog mom and very cautious of who cares for our doodle but they exceeded our expectations. They were extremely responsive and understanding. We will definitely be using them for boarding again!

Alison Dupra Brien

2020-05

I can't say enough amazing things about these guys!! From day one, Lourdes and Chris understood what safe play looks like for our German Shepherd (many other locations simply do not understand it) and they legit love on her like she is their own. We have been to dozens of daycares in our dog's lifetime and have never seen someone kiss her right on the nose like these guys do. If you're looking for a spot for your dog to feel at home, this is for you. Worth every penny knowing she's happy!!

Kaitlyn Whitman

2023-05

I don’t trust many places to bring my dogs, after working at a daycare/boarding facility previously in town that wasn’t great. But after hearing amazing things about The Barkington from multiple people I decided to give it a try for my 3 year old golden retriever. My golden had so much fun at daycare here! We will definitely be back! Also staff was super nice and welcoming!

JK Schaus

2023-05

The Barkington is so cute! The staff is always super helpful and responsive. We use The Barkington for playtime and grooming and will be using them this summer for boarding. There are no yucky "kennel" smells - the facility is always clean and inviting. We use the cameras while our dog is there and it gives us peace of mind that he is safe and having fun. We would definitely recommend The Barkington!Shirley, the groomer is great too! She did a great job with our pups.

Marcia Frelke

2023-07

I have only use them for grooming services at this point. However, the groomer, Shirley, is amazing. She is loving, caring, and very thorough. The staff is friendly and welcoming. They treat my pet with the upmost respect and care. Would definitely recommend and use them for more services as well.

Trish N

2024-02

The best staff!! ❤️The pet daycare and boarding are also great! So glad they opened up in the Ogden area!

Amanda Klutz

2024-03

My three great great danes loved the barking ton.

Rebecca Lawson

2024-01

Archie looked fabulous after his first grooming at the Barkington! I have already scheduled his next appointment

Tish Wisecup

2024-04

Shirley always does an amazing job grooming Bear. She is awesome!!!

Kathy Tolley

2022-05

We absolutely LOVE The Barkington! My dog goes 4-5 days a week and has definitely come out of her COVID induced social anxiety shell. She comes home tired everyday, but somehow has become more energetic and just overall happier since she's been going! Definitely a top notch facility to take your pup to! Lourdes, Chris, and the entire staff are all so sweet!

Shannon Brown

2023-05

My daughter picked up our dog today . After four hours and 130.00 to say our family was devastated is an understatement!!! The cut is absolutely awful . He has scissor lines on his nose !! Poor dog looks like he has bangs now ! Gaps from trimmers on his sides . There is no way this dog was matted and needed to be cut like this . I had done a comb through before arriving . I asked for a teddy bear cut I now have a dog who looks like a cancer patient . 130.00 ??? He doesn’t smell like he even had a bath . I was very hesitant about leaving him after seeing the cleanliness of the facility . Everyone deserves a chance , but this chance has caused my family to be sad . Our dog looks humiliated !I will never return . I have also told other people about the service we received today . I have a friend right now who’s dog is at your place for overnight stay . I called her right away to give her a heads up on her dog potentially being groomed there .Thank goodness hair grows back !!!

Kimra Traynor

2022-05

Having a very active 1 year old dog, we were in desperate need of some high quality day care that would allow our girl some big energy play time. We moved to Wilmington in September and wanted to find a day care that had outside play for her. We had used indoor daycare in the past and found that all indoor play led to potty training regression as the dogs became used to relieving themselves indoors. Using social media as a search tool, we found The Barkington & went to visit. We were highly impressed with both the boarding & the play areas which included a big outdoor space which featured swimming areas for the hot days. We LOVE The Barkington! We have since boarded Tinkerbell in one of the private rooms, and were able to travel knowing she was in safe & loving hands. Tinkerbell gets SO excited when we tell her we are going to daycare and at the end of the day we get a well exercised, highly socialize dog. Love the staff; everyone is so nice & the reels on Instagram are epic fun. I would give this place 6 stars if I could! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Opening Hours

Monday 7 AM-6:30 PM
Tuesday 7 AM-6:30 PM
Wednesday 7 AM-6:30 PM
Thursday 7 AM-6:30 PM
Friday 7 AM-6:30 PM
Saturday 7 AM-6:30 PM
Sunday 7 AM-6:30 PM

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