Lifelong Learner Shines Bright at Paragon
Dawn Walker of Pet Supplies Plus in Destin, FL has everyone at Paragon beyond impressed with her grooming! Recently graduating from Paragon’s DLP Level 1 program, Dawn has proven herself as a stickler for details and a dedicated learner. We’re happy to see she’s found her calling as she progresses through DLP Level 2. Congratulations, Dawn!
From Mentor Liz Thompson: “I am so impressed with Dawn’s determination to do better with each groom that she produces. Dawn is very dedicated to her success while she is enrolled in the program and will not take just “okay” work, she strives for perfection. This is a great characteristic to have in this industry and will take her far in her career. I have enjoyed every day spent supporting Dawn when she needs it and really love watching her grow in her skills.”
From Dawn:
Why did you choose dog grooming as a career?
I love dogs and have been in rescue for many years. Having worked reception at a dog grooming store for many years, I appreciated the skill needed to complete grooms. I could see things taking shape and believed I had ‘the eye’. Now only if I could put that into action! I was blessed to be hired by PSP – Destin who said they too believed in me (at my ripe ole age of 61) and asked if I could be a bather whilst studying for grooming school. My head groomer (Tiffany Melton) has been a great encouragement and told me ‘You can do this!’ It is challenging, but I am learning and feel this is the right path – at last – for me!!
What did you enjoy most during your coursework?
Understanding there are so many aspects to being a groomer!!!! I have learned so much about dogs; their needs, should/should not’s, dangers, viruses, anatomy and techniques to handle many different dogs. Having great mentors (Liz Thompson/Paragon), Melissa Heyman (PSP Mentor) and my Grooming manager (Tiffany Melton PSP Destin) have all been key in all aspects of my coursework. Understanding that grooming is not ‘simple’ , but a love, skill and artistry that needs to be repeated over and over to constantly groom correctly and improve.
Are you currently employed, or still looking?
Happily Employed by Pet Supplies Plus (Destin) a newly opened store from January 2022. (They are navigating this course along with me)
What are your future goals?
To absolutely get better and refine my skills to be the best I can be! If a job is worth doing it is worth doing well. If I can help an animal or person, I will try!