This Rising Star Has The Skills To Make Their Dreams A Reality
Meet Rising Star and Groom Tech Grad Ari Zepeda of Pet Supplies Plus in Vadnais, Minnesota! Ari is a true professional, and we are so impressed with how thorough she was when completing assignments. To Ari, the reward is making dogs look and feel great, and we need more groomers like that in the industry. We can’t wait to see what she does next!
Ari’s mentor Jen McCarthy adds, “She has been a superstar from the get-go! Ari really wants to be sure she gets things done the right way and takes care of each animal diligently. Ari did extremely well on all their coursework tests as well as their photo submission tests, and is on their way to becoming a great groomer!”
Why did you choose dog grooming as a career?
I have worked with dog’s since I was 18. I started as a trainer and handler at a daycare facility in St. Paul, Minnesota. After some time I knew I didn’t want to leave the dog world, but I needed a career that I could grow within and express my creative side. Grooming was the perfect fit.
What did you enjoy most during your coursework?
I enjoy the transformation of a good de-shed and seeing the elated expression on a client’s face when they see their dog looking their best! Above all else, I love working with nervous and unruly dogs that have struggled with grooming. It makes me happy to help them feel more at ease and get more comfortable with the process.
Where can we see your work?
Pet Supplies Plus in Vadnais Heights, Minnesota.
What are your future goals?
To become a reliable and highly sought-after groomer in my area. In time, I hope to be certified in dog and cat nutrition and develop a biologically-appropriate pet food line.
Any advice for aspiring groomers?
Knowledge is power. Your mentors, the internet, and other groomers are all available and it’s up to you to ask questions and build the career you want to achieve. Acquiring the knowledge is the easy part; turning it into skill will take time and practice. If you want it, you have to make it happen.