Meet The Team
Meredith Owens (Owner & Head Groomer)
Meredith views her work with pets as a true calling. Her journey began at just 15 years old when she took on her first position at the Oconee County Animal Shelter. There, she formed deep connections with the shelter dogs, a formative experience that guided her toward a career in canine care. Eager to expand her knowledge, Meredith immersed herself in various aspects of the pet industry, including veterinary care, dog grooming, boarding, pet food, and dog training.
In 2003, Meredith had the privilege of apprenticing under master dog groomer Liz Strahlos, honing her skills and deepening her passion for the craft. After graduating from Lander University, Meredith opened the original The Better Bark location in Central, SC, in 2006. Her extensive experience with shelter and rescue animals has proven invaluable, particularly in her ability to work with dogs who may have had negative past grooming or life experiences. Meredith is also an active participant in the rescue dog circuit, and many of our clients are dogs she has helped find loving homes.
Her dedication to both the pets she cares for and the community of rescue animals continues to inspire her work every day.
Mikayla Messer (General Manager)
Mikayla joined The Better Bark in July of 2024 and quickly advanced to the role of General Manager. With a diverse background in animal care, Mikayla has gained valuable experience as a veterinary assistant, on cattle farms, in equine medicine, and even worked under our very own Krystal Hoskins at Wag On In.
In her personal life, Mikayla’s love for animals extends beyond work. She spends her free time with her husband, ring-tailed lemur, three dogs, cat, and horse—further showcasing her dedication to animals. Her passion for animal care shines through in everything she does, and she’s thrilled to spend each day doing what she loves.
Mikayla has been entrusted by Meredith with managing the staff, overseeing client communications, and of course, indulging in plenty of puppy cuddles. As the first smiling face you'll see when you visit The Better Bark, Mikayla ensures every guest feels welcomed and cared for from the moment they arrive.
Krystal Hoskins (Groomer)
Krystal, the former owner of Wag On In, a dog grooming salon located in Wallhalla, brings over 10 years of grooming experience to our team. She has a long-standing friendship with Meredith, having previously worked alongside her at The Better Bark before venturing out to start her own business. After growing her family, Krystal decided to step back from owning a business, and we’re excited to have her return to work alongside Meredith once again.
Affectionately known as our "Master Fluffer," Krystal is renowned for her expertise in specialized breed cuts. Her attention to detail and love for animals make her an invaluable asset to our team. We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome her back, and we invite you to Wag On In and experience her exceptional grooming skills firsthand.
Chelsea Kompier (Groomer)
Chelsea joins us from Petco in Clemson, where she spent five years perfecting her grooming skills. Over the years, she’s had the opportunity to mentor under both Meredith and Krystal, gaining invaluable experience and expertise.
Chelsea's passion for animals has been a lifelong pursuit, with experience spanning veterinary offices, horse stables, and various animal care fields. She graduated from the PetSmart Grooming Academy in 2018, and after five successful years at Petco, Chelsea decided to make a change and bring her skills to The Better Bark.
Outside of work, Chelsea enjoys spending time with her two cattle dog mixes, Zoe and Dozer, and exploring the outdoors in her Jeep.
Kloe Owens (Groomer)
Kloe has been working as a groomer for three years, and is very dedicated to expressing her love and appreciation for animals through her craft. She has a deep passion for providing top-quality grooming services that ensure each pet's well-being and comfort. In addition to her work, she shares her home with a Doodle, a Schnauzer, and two cats, all of whom inspire her love for animals every day.
Anna Williams (Bather)
Anna, originally from upstate South Carolina, began her career in management and technology before relocating to Alabama, where she earned her nursing degree and spent approximately ten years working in the medical field. Throughout her college years and career, Anna volunteered for various organizations, including animal shelters, Project Pet, and several rescues. After returning to the upstate, she realized her true passion was caring for animals rather than people. In 2021, she discovered an opportunity with Meredith at The Better Bark and has been dedicated to the team ever since.
In her personal life, Anna enjoys Clemson football, fishing, and spending quality time with her fiancé and their three beloved fur babies: Rocko and Molly, two Chiweenies, and Ginger, their famous Golden Doodle, who works part-time as a BB greeter.
Elizabeth Barbee (Dryer)
Liz joined The Better Bark in 2024, bringing with her a deep passion for contributing to the pet community. Prior to her move to Clemson, Liz was an active volunteer, offering her expertise and assistance to local rescues, particularly in handling reptile-related situations, thanks to her extensive knowledge and experience. Although she stepped away from the community to focus on her family, Liz has always maintained a strong affection for animals, especially those that are cute and cuddly, given that she is a mother to five daughters.
At The Better Bark, Liz plays an integral role in ensuring that pets remain calm and comfortable throughout their grooming experience. She is always ready to lend a helping hand wherever needed. Outside of work, Liz enjoys spending time with both her human and furry family.