A new fund established at the Community Foundation of Dickinson County is helping ensure financial hardship does not prevent dog owners from providing essential grooming and care for their dogs.
DeDe Lorson, owner of Boujee Mutt Self Serve Dog Wash and Spa in Abilene, recently established the fund after seeing firsthand a growing need among dog owners who struggle to afford regular grooming services.
For Lorson, the issue goes beyond appearance. In recent weeks, dogs have arrived at her shop with severely matted fur, fleas, and overgrown nails; in some cases, growing into the skin and even infections that require attention. “There is a real need for people who can’t take care of their dogs, and the poor dogs are the ones who suffer,” Lorson said. That experience helped inspire the new fund.
The fund at the Community Foundation of Dickinson County will provide financial assistance for qualifying dog owners who otherwise may not be able to afford grooming services. Lorson said the need can be especially significant for people living on fixed incomes, including older adults whose dogs may be an essential source of daily companionship. “Just because someone lives on a fixed income doesn’t mean they shouldn’t have a pet,” Lorson said. “Pets bring happiness to people. For some of our elderly population, that pet may be their only companion.”
Dog owners interested in applying for grooming assistance may visit Boujee Mutt Self Serve Dog Wash and Spa, located at 206 NW Second St. in Abilene during open hours Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eligibility guidelines apply, and applicants will be asked to provide financial information. Applications will be reviewed individually, and completing an application does not automatically guarantee assistance. Approved participants may receive assistance with grooming services up to three times per year, depending on program guidelines and available funding.
Lorson opened Boujee Mutt Self Serve Dog Wash and Spa in December 2025. After years of working in healthcare, she felt called to pursue something she genuinely enjoyed. Lorson raised dogs for more than 20 years and previously worked at a veterinary clinic, where her experience included grooming animals. Nearly a year after opening Boujee Mutt, that longtime passion has grown into a busy local business.
While Lorson grooms Mabel, a small dog sitting almost perfectly still for her haircut, she laughs when asked whether all her clients are quite so cooperative. “No,” she said with a chuckle. “Mabel is a regular and knows the routine.” When Boujee Mutt first opened, Lorson was serving approximately three to four dogs per day. With another team member now helping, the business has grown to approximately six to eight dogs per day. Services can include shampooing, blow-drying, haircuts, and nail trimming.
The grooming services provided by Boujee Mutt also allow Lorson a closer look at the challenges some pet owners face, and she can provide something that does not cost a thing: education. “Not every dog owner knows how to take care of a dog properly,” she said. “It’s usually just a lack of education.” Regular brushing and other at-home care can help owners maintain their dogs between professional grooming appointments. Lorson said she is happy to teach clients when she sees an opportunity to help. Grooming can also serve as another set of eyes on a dog’s health. Groomers may notice skin conditions, infections, unusual lumps, or other concerns that warrant a visit to a veterinarian. To schedule a service for your dog, you may do so through the Boujee Mutt Facebook page using the Square site link.
The Community Foundation of Dickinson County works with individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to establish charitable funds that address needs and opportunities throughout the area.
The Boujee Mutt Fund demonstrates that charitable giving does not have to begin with a large organization or a multimillion-dollar idea. It can begin when someone recognizes a need in the community and decides to do something about it. To donate to this fund, visit www.communityfoundation.us.
About the Community Foundation of Dickinson County
The Community Foundation of Dickinson County connects donors with their charitable giving priorities, serves as a resource for local nonprofit organizations, and provides leadership to the communities it serves. Through charitable funds established by individuals, families, businesses, and organizations, the foundation helps turn generosity into lasting local impact.