Blog

Originally published June 16, 2023 

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 Nellie Dunlap from San Antonio, Texas.

GC: Tell us your grooming story.

ND: I have always loved animals. My first job at the age of 15 was as a kennel tech at a vet, and I learned so much, including how to handle dogs. I also bathed dogs and loved the bond it created with them. After 10 years, I decided to move on to the health field with people, but I missed being able to spend time with dogs. In the end of 2020, I decided to start my own grooming business. It took a good year to get clients and lots of hard work. I started with one pair of clippers and three pairs of scissors. Now, I have my own home salon that's growing more than ever and all the tools and necessities to be a successful groomer.

GC: What interested you in becoming a dog groomer?

ND: I love helping people and animating feels good. Even if it’s only for two hours, you grow a bond with dogs, and I personally find it therapeutic. And it’s so rewarding seeing a scruffy dirty dog turn into a soft, fluffy and shiny pup!

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

ND: I love grooming any type of doodle. I just love their personalities and love seeing how fluffy they get. There are many styles as well for a doodle.

GC: Can you tell us more about K9freshcuts?

ND: I groom part-time typically Friday through Sunday. On average I’ll groom two to three dogs a day.

As a home-based groomer, it's all one-on-one with no kennels, and I like to take my time and give them all the attention. The more they come to me, I feel the bond gets better and stronger.

I also love sending updates and cute photos of the grooming process to pet parents throughout the groom. (You don’t always get that at a huge, busy salon.)

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

ND: I wish I could groom full-time but even just grooming part-time does take a toll on my body. Having more than four dogs a day for me can be very tiring.

Having a prosthetic leg doesn’t stop me, but it does tire me out standing for long periods of time. I have to remember at times to sit and take a break. So, for now part-time grooming is what I can do. But I do not let physical disabilities get in the way. I still push and strive to be the best person I can be, and I love to inspire others.

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

ND: Being able to share my experience and photos and videos of before and after of my grooms. Every now and then, I go back to see how I started and where I’m at, and I'm just so blessed to be where I’m at.

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

ND: Never give up.

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

ND: It takes time to start and grow a business. Learning is the best thing. You’ll have good days and bad days but keep striving and keep your head up!

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

ND: Great quality products and fast shipping. My No. 1 choice.

Keep up with Nellie and K9freshcuts on Facebook, TikTok and 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!