After three years, I built an addition to my house and left the veterinarian’s office to devote all my time to growing my business. I went to grooming seminars every year to increase my skill and knowledge but seeing so many skin problems, I decided to take it to a new level. I decided to learn how to help these dogs that were having problems.
I became a certified pet aesthetician, which is different from your average groomer. I had to go through stringent training, including learning the science of skin as well as applications in a medical environment.
The course includes not only skin and hair health but how to treat skin conditions. To become certified, after learning the science from a book, you have to do your own multiple case studies. After you pass that section, you get invited to go to the Veterinary Health and Surgical Center in Arizona to work in the therapeutic spa with hands-on training with veterinarians.
You then have to pass an in-depth written test to earn certification. This is where I learned the benefits of the hydro massage ozone therapy machine. This machine creates ozone in a water bath. The ozone has many health benefits like treating fungus, allergies, healing wounds and even soothing arthritic joints.
I have pets with arthritis that get relief with ozone treatment, and we also add essential oils like lavender and frankincense to increase the benefit.
How many dogs do you estimate you have groomed over the years and what breeds of dogs have you had on your tables?
I have groomed hundreds of dogs over the past 19 years. I am so fortunate to have the best customers, I could never ask for better customers. I feel so blessed they trust me with their pups.
They are also very consistent in keeping their pups on a grooming schedule. The only unfortunate thing is that I'm unable to take any new pups at this time. I do have a waiting list for when I start taking new ones though.
We groom the smallest Yorkies to St. Bernards, Great Pyrenees, Rottweilers, Chow Chows. You name it, we probably groomed at least one.
What are the biggest challenges of owning your own business?
The challenge of owning a business is it seems like you never stop working. There is always something to do.
If you are not grooming, you have maintenance, cleaning, bookwork etc. If anything doesn't work or breaks, it is on you to fix it. Owning your own business of course has pros and cons.
I like how everyone says, “Must be great to be your own boss.” Well … I don't think like that. I think every customer is my boss and if it wasn't for them, I wouldn’t be able to pay my bills. My motto is to take care of your customers and the money will take care of itself.
Why do you feel Stark County is so pet friendly and people care so much for their pets?
Stark County is pet friendly.
Many of the local stores welcome you to bring in your dog . The parks have dog -friendly areas. Lots of my customers are involved in agility or other dog sports.
I don't know about surrounding counties, but Stark seems to be a good fit for dog lovers.
One for fun: What is your favorite way to spend a day off when you get one?
When I get a day off, I love to walk the trails with Jeff and Ling Ling.
Editor's note: Five questions with … is a Sunday feature that showcases a member of the Stark County community. If you'd like to recommend someone to participate, send an email to newsroom@cantonrep.com.
