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Groomers around the world inspire us. Their passion for pets and business consistently set the bar for the industry, which is why we'll be featuring stories from VIGs - very important groomers - like you. This month's spotlight features Caden McCarthy of Winston Salem, North Carolina. 

GC: Tell us your grooming story. 

CM: I have been grooming for around two years. I started with an apprenticeship, and after gaining a lot of experience there, I tried my hand at corporate grooming. This helped me learn a lot in a short time. I now work at Ruff Housing and have never been happier! 

I love watching grooming seminars and learning from those with more experience than me so I can give my clients the best possible experience they could have! 

GC: What interested you about becoming a dog groomer? 

CM: I always had an interest in working with animals. Growing up, I never had “haircut” dogs. We would do their nails and baths at home, so I was never exposed to a grooming shop. That was until we adopted a Shih Tzu named Teddy. 

Immediately, I fell in love with how they could transform my pup from a Muppet to a perfect teddy bear. I knew I had found a career I wanted to pursue wholeheartedly. 

I’ve continued my grooming education, and one day I hope to open my own salon after gaining more experience! 

GC: Do you have a favorite breed to groom? If so, why are they your favorite? 

CM: Shih Tzus would have to be one of my favorites, and I know that is because of Teddy. 

Other than that, I wouldn’t say I have a favorite breed, but I do have a special love for grooming elderly dogs. Something about seeing those old dogs light up and become a puppy after a nice spa day is so rewarding! 

GC: What is your favorite thing about being a groomer? 

CM: My favorite thing about being a groomer would probably be how rewarding working hard is in this industry. There is always more to learn and new ideas from other groomers, so you are never really at a standstill with grooming. It is a great balance for those who love to be creative, love animals and are always willing to better themselves. 

GC: What is the best piece of grooming advice you've received? 

CM: Take pictures! We see our grooms every day and are surrounded by astonishing groomers on social media. Comparing yourself to those with more experience is so easy to do, but they all started in the same place you are. It is only up from here! You will see progress from your pictures even if you can’t see it when you’re at your grooming station. 

GC: What would you say to someone interested in becoming a groomer? 

CM: Go for it! If you truly have a love for animals and a creative passion, then it is a perfect career choice. It is definitely a physically challenging job as well as mentally demanding on some days. But even on your worst days you’re still surrounded by the best company you could ask for - your furry friends! 

GC: Why do you choose to shop with Groomer's Choice? 

CM: Groomer’s Choice quickly became a favorite of mine with their diversity of products. It makes it easy for me to try new products and stay up to date on the latest trends by keeping an eye on their new brands! 

With such a large influx of clients, reliability on delivery is very important. Our salons go through products so quickly, so when we need something, we need it soon! And they always come through for me! 

Keep up with Caden on Instagram. 

Are you a groomer or pet professional? Want to be featured in a future Groomer's Choice blog post or magazine? Submit your grooming story!