An Australian company that manufactures do-it-yourself dog washing stations is celebrating the opening of its U.S. headquarters in Wilmington.

Tru Blu K9000's office and K9000 showroom is located at 4305 Oleander Drive in Wilmington, and grand opening festivities are scheduled for 10 a.m.-3 p.m. June 23 for dog owners who want to try the service (dog washing stations are currently available for pet owner use in the headquarters office) and business owners who might be interested in additional revenue from dog-washing stations, according to a news release. The charity event will benefit To Your Rescue, a local 501(c)(3) organization devoted to helping animal shelters and rescue groups, and food will be provided by Tropical Smoothie Cafe.

“We are delighted to be opening our U.S. headquarters in Wilmington and building our North American presence in such varied businesses as car washes and service stations, pet supply stores, veterinary practices, campgrounds and anyplace that serves families with dogs,” said Paul Baron, CEO of Tru Blu K9000, in the release. 

The company has set up retail and distribution in Georgia, Illinois, Colorado, Indiana, Alabama, Florida, Toronto and Vancouver, and is sold out through June, now taking orders for July deliveries, the release stated.

The K9000 provides dog owners with a 10-minute and four-step bath for their furry friends that includes a shampoo, conditioner, optional flea and tick rinse and blow-dry. The suggested retail price of each wash is $10.

"The fully contained K9000 machines provide easy step-in access for the dog and require no bending-over for the owner," the release stated. 

According to the release, the stainless steel machines are typically installed in 24-hour accessible locations, "allowing convenience for the pet owner and a round-the-clock revenue stream for the hosting business."

“All the K9000 stations sold since our founding 13 years ago remain in service today,” Baron said in the release.