By Avery Gershwin
Jauja Pet, a grooming business offering special care for senior pets and a crate-free environment, opened its doors recently, the second location for owner Yanet Castillo, who launched her first pet salon in Greenwich four years ago.
The name Jauja means happiness, and Castillo, who began washing dogs as a small operation out of her basement, had always dreamed of opening a full-service pet salon. Her dream became a reality in 2021 with the Greenwich location, and from the start, she has followed a no-crate policy, believing that pets behave more calmly when they are not confined.
She describes the atmosphere of her Greenwich salon as a “party,” reflecting the upbeat energy and freedom pets enjoy there.
Still, Castillo acknowledged that not every pet thrives in such a high-energy setting. Some clients with older or more anxious pets expressed a need for a calmer environment. This feedback led her to open a second location with a more soothing atmosphere. While the Rye salon, at 280-A Purchase St., welcomes dogs of all ages, it dedicates half of its weekly schedule to senior pets who need gentle, specialized attention, with the other days reserved for the younger, more active pets.
Seeing an opportunity, Castillo said that no other groomers in Rye specialize in senior pets. Jauja Pet offers a variety of packages, including full grooming, microbubble baths (a treatment for skin issues), cat care, specialized senior services, pick-up and drop-off, and even dog walking. Castillo aims to provide every pet with a full experience, not just a basic wash and dry. Prices range from $55 to $190, depending on the breed and package selected.
Castillo said she is confident that her unique approach will set her apart.
“There are so many dogs in Rye, so there’s business for everybody,” she said. She described a warm community response in Rye, saying, “everyone has been so sweet,” and she said she has received strong support from Rye’s active pet community.
The grand opening brought together longtime clients and local pet lovers, complete with pet-friendly treats for the many dogs in attendance. Castillo gave a speech and cut the ribbon, officially marking the beginning of Jauja Pet’s new chapter in Rye.
