Shamontiel V.
5/5
An apology goes a LONG way. You couldn't tell me I'd ever step foot in here again. I'd already had two uneventful experiences, left my "final" review and went about my day. So imagine my surprise when I'm walking my dog and notice somebody jogging next to me and handing me a gift bag. First, I was confused about why my dog (who is 99% likely to warn you not to get too close to me) wasn't even slightly alarmed by this guy.
Then, I looked to see the brotha with the locks who I say hello to every time we make eye contact while I'm walking by. My headphones were on loud (listening to "Reid Report") and I was so engrossed in listening to the news that I didn't hear anything he said. But I looked at the bag that read, "Apologies for past service" and instantly said, "Awwwww."
It was such a nice gesture that I was not expecting at all. I kept walking and got all the way home before I looked inside. I knew there was a treat in there because my dog had shoved her nose completely in the bag when I sat it down. The level of thought, courtesy and a good-hearted guess at my wide-shouldered, slim-waisted dog tickled me. I read the message on the business card, wrote my own "thank you" card and circled back for a second walk to thank the owner in person.
I had no idea that the owner WAS the same guy I'd been saying hello to because it was someone else when I first visited in 2021. You just never know who you're talking to or who leaves a good impression without trying. I absolutely positively made sure to update my review today. As I said to the owner (Brandon) in the store, I've walked 99 dogs and completed 619 walks, not including my own dogs.
Every single dog has his own personality, and the same personality diversity applies to people too. His response to a bad customer service experience with someone on his team was EXACTLY what makes grudge holders like me give a store another shot. (I also like that he checked up on how a dog was doing who was out with another worker. That attention to detail MATTERS to a three-time dog owner like me.)
I learned how to clip dog nails three years ago and don't need a doggy day care anymore (unless I go on vacation), but when I need ANY dog supplies, I'm going there first before I consider shopping online. Bark Place earned that from me.