From Dog Trainer to Professional Pet Groomer: Meet Paragon Graduate Emma McCumber
Meet Paragon Certified Professional Pet Groomer Emma McCumber! Based with Pet Supplies Plus in Marion, Ohio, Emma turned a passion for working with dogs into a thriving grooming career. After years as a dog trainer, Emma was encouraged by her managers at Pet Supplies Plus to move into the salon and expand her expertise into grooming. With determination and confidence, she embraced the challenge and successfully completed Level 2, earning her title as a Professional Pet Groomer.
Her mentor, Suesan Watson, shares:
“Emma did very well through Level 2. She would reach out when she wanted more clarification on a skill and wanted to approach every skill with the best understanding so she could do her best. When she submitted her work for approval, she would also look it over herself and point out things she wanted to improve. This is such a good habit to build because she will always strive to provide her clients with her best grooms. I know she will continue to grow and learn as she moves forward in this new career. Congratulations, Emma!”
Why did you choose dog grooming as a career?
I chose grooming as a career because I thought it seemed fun. I have been a dog trainer for a long time and wanted to expand my expertise into the pet grooming industry. I felt confident that I could learn how to do it and build a career from this! My managers at Pet Supplies Plus encouraged me to move to the salon and begin my grooming journey.
What did you enjoy most during your coursework?
What I enjoyed most was feeling my body learn what to do and sync up with what my mind already knew from taking in so much information through Paragon’s program. In only five months, I went from barely knowing how to do a nail trim to confidently producing good haircuts and handling all kinds of situations in the salon.
Where can we see your work?
You can find Emma’s work featured on the Pet Supplies Plus Marion Facebook page.
What are your future goals?
My future goals are to continue building my grooming skills through Pet Supplies Plus, attend expos, explore new courses and seminars, and eventually become a Paragon Certified Pet Stylist
Any advice for aspiring groomers?
Don’t underestimate your ability to learn something brand new, do hard things, and overcome obstacles that only seem huge because they are unknown to you. Anything is possible!