Rising Star and Pet Groomer Grad: Combining Technical Skill with Forward Thinking and Exceptional Customer Service
Meet Rising Star and Pet Groomer Grad Christen Sills of The Pet Palace in Webster, Texas! Christen not only showed us her technical prowess during her studies, but she also proved she can think “big picture” with a pet and communicate effectively with pet parents. It was a joy seeing her work and grow and she has earned every ounce of her success. We can’t wait to see where her grooming journey takes her!
Her mentor Liz Thompson adds, “Christen is here for this career and she is developing a beautiful groomer’s eye and mentality. I was blown away by their first bladed submission as the grooms were stunning. Upon reading her grooming notes, I noticed that Christen has taken a careful examination of the dogs’ coats upon check-in and provided non-judgmental/educational support to the pet parent to ensure that she was looking out for the health and well-being of the dog and not attempting to put the dog through the stress of brushing out matted coat just to try and keep the coat longer as the pet parents had initially hoped. Christen certainly has a well-rounded sense of ethical integrity and a servant’s heart. I am so proud to have Christen in this industry!”
Why did you choose dog grooming as a career?
I chose dog grooming because I love working with animals, especially dogs! Ever since I was a little girl it was my dream career to work with them. Originally, I wanted to be a veterinarian. Unfortunately, I get way too emotional when it comes to seeing animals hurt and in a lot of pain or really sick. At least with dog grooming, I am still caring for animals in other ways that will still benefit their health. It also puts a smile on their owner’s faces and makes the dogs look super smart and cute.
What did you enjoy most during your coursework?
I enjoy everything about it! The videos are great when I need something shown in action, and the books are very informative. I especially love the book Theory of 5, and I use it a lot while I’m grooming. It has been a huge help when I forget the direction I need to run my comb over a dog’s head to get it set up.
I also loved that anytime I got stuck on what to do next or needed helpful suggestions, my team had my back! Thank you Paragon, Liz, Caden, Emily M., Emily W., and Tracy! I couldn’t have gotten this far without you all!
Where can we see your work?
The Pet Palace in Webster, Texas.
What are your future goals?
My goal is to build up the number of grooms a day I can do. Right now, I am building up to 3-4 and I would like to go up to about 6. I groom for family and my closest friends on the side to help me build up my skills.
Any advice for aspiring groomers?
When I took art classes back in middle my teacher always said there are no mistakes that can’t be fixed. It just needs a little adjusting. Grooming is an art! Although mistakes will happen; the best part is our canvases grow back for us to try new/better techniques, new styles, and new looks. You will only improve with practice. Don’t get discouraged. Keep your head up. Keep learning. And always make sure you have a set of thinning shears or 2. (They are the erasers in grooming.)