Rising Star Larisa DeZayas : Hustling from Home
Meet Rising Star and Pet Groomer Grad Larisa DeZayas of Chattanooga, Teneessee. Larisa is an incredibly dedicated student that truly hustled her way through her program. Her drive to do well and complete the program shows how determined she was to follow her dreams. With a life long love for dogs, we know Larisa will excel in her career in grooming!
Her mentor, Liz Thompson agrees too, sharing, “Larisa is the most determined student that I have seen to date. She had to re-start her level from scratch and ended up having to work on her grooms in her home. She did not allow this adversity to hold her back! The hustle that she had for finding dogs to work on in such a short amount of time was incredible and really showed her dedication to this career. With each groom, Larisa and I were able to collaborate very positively on areas to adjust to better her overall outcome in her work and always showcased that through her next grooms. I am SO VERY proud of Larisa and cannot be happier to have her in this industry!”
Why did you choose dog grooming as a career?
I enjoyed my career as a certified blind rehabilitation specialist teaching cane travel (Orientation & Mobility) for almost 25 years. Unfortunately, I developed a condition of my own that prevents me from working outside regularly. I looked for a long time and explored many options for what to add/do next. As soon as the opportunity to learn to be a groomer appeared in front of me, my lifelong love for dogs kicked in. I have fully embraced the opportunity to spend lots of time with dogs by providing grooming care. Now, it seems like such a natural and perfect career choice, I can’t believe I didn’t pursue dog grooming earlier! Life is short. I’m older, but I’m so lucky to have this opportunity to be a dog groomer, and to have a family that has supported me in doing so.
What did you enjoy most during your coursework?
I have most enjoyed the honest feedback which allowed me to develop an eye for important details for a finished groom, combined with enthusiastic support from my mentor to keep improving! As a result, I’ve become stronger and bolder in making decisions to move an aesthetically pleasing groom along safely and efficiently.
Where can we see your work?
Starting next month, I’ll be working for a local veterinary clinic, growing their business to include pet grooming services for their customers.
What are your future goals?
My long-term goal is to have a regular clientele, with dogs I get to know well throughout their lifetimes.
Any advice for aspiring groomers?
Not sure I have enough grooming experience to give grooming advice, but I do have a lot of professional experience as an instructor. So, here you go: Pet parents often have a lot of anxiety giving their pet to a stranger. Don’t let their anxiety feed yours. Be the calm in the room. Give solid information, education, and validation, and they (and their dog) will relax.