OUR STORY

Elysiem was founded on a simple truth: pets are family. Born from years of research, discipline, and a deep respect for the human–animal bond, Elysiem blends luxury care with a personal touch—offering an experience where pets feel safe, calm, and deeply cared for.

Founder John T. McNeal, a former U.S. Army Senior Officer, envisioned Elysiem while serving abroad. His background shaped not only the salon’s meticulous standards, but also its guiding principle: deliver excellence with heart. What began in 2017 as a local pet retail shop—Pet Parents—evolved into Elysiem, a full-service salon built on personalization, trust, and intentional care.

With a cage-free, stress-free environment and tailored grooming services, we go far beyond the basics. Every visit is designed around the comfort and needs of each pet—from thoughtful styling and spa treatments to convenient transportation options that bring the salon experience directly to our clients’ doors.

Our connection to the community runs just as deep. Since our earliest days, we’ve supported local schools through annual donations and proudly partnered with Lucky Dog Animal Rescue to host adoption events and provide essential supplies to animals in need.

At Elysiem, we don’t just care for pets—we welcome them as part of our extended family. And we’re honored to serve the people who love them just as much.

What Our Clients Say

I recently took my Pomeranian to Elysiem and I couldn't be happier with the results! The groomer was incredibly professional, friendly, and attentive to my pup's needs. My Pomeranian came out looking absolutely adorable with a perfectly trimmed coat. The attention to detail was outstanding, and it's clear they truly cares about their furry clients. The salon was clean, well-maintained, and had a welcoming atmosphere. I highly recommend Elysiem to anyone looking for top-notch grooming services for their pets. Thank you for making my Pomeranian look and feel amazing!

I brought my 12 year old Cockapoo to be groomed here - we had an excellent experience. He has anxiety and can be very difficult with hair cuts. Nicole was his groomer, she was patient with him and took the time he needed to have a great haircut. So happy to have found Elysiem.

We love Elysium. The staff and groomers are amazing. My girl is always happy and relaxed when I pick her up. The quality of care and style is outstanding!

I’m very picky when it comes to groomers for my Golden Retriever. The Elysiem team not only listened to every one of my requests, but clearly knows how to handle breed-specific cuts with real expertise. They made my Golden Retriever, Pluto, look amazing. From here on out, it’s just maintenance—and I’ll absolutely be coming back.

Reuben has groomed Wrigley for the past five years every three weeks. She gets unbelievable love and attention. He sees to every detail from head to tail and toe nails!! My beautiful golden doodle is always excited to go and loves to prance around when she is done to show me her beautiful hairdo! The ears are always perfect and he knows just exactly how I want her to be trimmed. I would highly recommend Elysiem for their professional attitude and amazing skills!

We have four Maltese and were frustrated trying to get consistently good grooming for them until we found Yvette at Elysiem in Potomac Park. She always does a wonderful job. The facility is very clean and everyone there makes you feel welcome. We also like the fact that they don't crate the dogs so they can socialize. Highly recommended!

The Elysiem crew did an amazing job on my shabby looking pup. I always worry about taking her to the groomers because she is a double coated dog, but Jaidah knew exactly what she was doing. My pup looks like a beautiful Shetland Sheepdog again! We will definitely be booking here from now on.

Service is wonderful-no waiting for grooming. In and out with my pup every time. Yvette is so sweet and a great groomer for my toy poodle. Every pup I saw there was beautifully groomed and not in cages. Staff is so great with pups!

Our puppy has been going to Elysiem for grooming for four years and always come home looking beautiful! As a mini labradoodle she gets curly and matted but always comes home well taken care of. Not the most patient puppy but they treat her with kindness and patience.

I just love Elysium Grooming. They are so accommodating with My often difficult schedule. And because they are only by appointment, the dogs are never put into a cage. Sometimes there are two dogs there at a time depending on how many groomers and the dogs are often playing with each other. They have a little beds for the dogs to sleep on. The groomers do a fantastic job and I never worry about my little fur baby when she’s there.

Elysium always looks after our Rex. He is losing his capacity to use his back legs so we are super happy that we found a place that will look after him so well. He is always so happy after his spa day!

Hands down one of the best if not THE best grooming experiences I have had with my mini Yorkie. I would recommend Yvette (Potomac) AND Lupé (Bethesda) time and time again and I cannot wait until our next appointment. Cici looks fabulous and she has been energetic and playful vs. withdrawn after previous groomers. Thank you so much! You have a fan!!

We have been taking our dog Chloe to Elysiem in Park Potomac for grooming since it opened a few years ago. Ashley does an amazing job and Chloe always looks beautiful. She is clearly well cared for and happy when we pick her up. We have gotten to know the staff ( especially Judy) and they feel like family. Their kindness, caring, love for dogs and warmth is evident as soon as we walk in the door. Chloe can’t wait to get inside when we get to the door which tells it all! A shout out to John the owner who has created an outstanding small business and we are so lucky to have Elysiem in our neighborhood!!

I take my dog to Elysiem to get groomed and they do a wonderful job. The facility is very nice and clean and the staff is so kind and make you feel welcome. A plus for me is that they don’t crate your pets when they are finished getting groomed. I would HIGHLY recommend Yvette as your pet’s groomer. She is great and does an amazing job on my dog, Louie. I have her groom my dog every time. 5+ stars.