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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 Rebecca Rossi of Johnston, Rhode Island. 

GC: Tell us your grooming story. 

RR: I’ve been a groomer for almost 11 years. It’s been a long and bumpy road, but I’ve finally found my niche. My salon, Becca’s Pooch Parlor, grooms dogs that many local groomers refuse. It gives me immense joy when my clients are extremely happy and want to come through the door! 

GC: What interested you about becoming a dog groomer? 

RR: I wanted to provide a stress-free and positive grooming experience for pets who do not enjoy being groomed. 

GC: Tell us more about Becca’s Pooch Parlor. 

RR: At Becca’s Pooch Parlor we specialize in geriatric and hard-to-handle pets. We are a 1:1 grooming salon that ensures all appointments are performed before another pet enters. This environment is not only beneficial to those pets, but also pets who have anxiety, a fear of kennels or are reactive to other animals. 

GC: What are the sacrifices and rewards that come with owning a grooming business? 

RR: Some sacrifices are extremely hard but also rewarding in the long run. I’ve missed out on countless seminars, grooming shows and events with friends and family to be physically and mentally in the business mindset. 

I’ve put my ALL into growing my business this last year, and it is finally starting to reward my team and myself. We have officially made a name for ourselves and have a great recurring clientele. Over the last year, I really haven’t patted myself on the back for my hard work. It’s tough to see sometimes, but it’s great to be recognized knowing the hard work and challenges you’ve been through are paying off! 

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

RR: I enjoy grooming the misunderstood breeds – Rottweilers, Pit Bulls and Akitas. 

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

RR: My favorite thing about being a groomer is helping pets feel and look their best.  

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

RR: The best piece of advice I’ve received during my career is humanity over vanity. In my salon, we rarely de-matt dogs. We want pets to be as comfortable as possible in our care. 

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

RR: I would tell someone interested in becoming a groomer to take care of their bodies! Lift your grooming table so you’re not bending over the dog, invest in a good tub with a ramp so you’re not lifting insanely heavy dogs, stretch and go for massage therapy. 

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

RR: I choose to shop with Groomer’s Choice because of the quality and affordable prices! 

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!