Rising Star and Groom Tech Grad: An Inspiring Story Made Real Through Hard Work
Meet Rising Star and Groom Tech Grad Sabrina Sandvoss of Treats Unleashed in St. Louis, Missouri! Sabrina had worked with pets for a long time prior to her grooming studies, and seeing her excitement about learning this new side of the pet care industry was inspiring to see. We were blown away by the quality of her work, the timeliness of her assignments, but most of all her drive to succeed and be the best groomer she could be. We can’t wait to see where this journey takes her!
Her mentor Jen McCarthy agrees, telling us, “Sabrina was an excellent student throughout level 1! She worked hard to get awesome grades on her written and hands-on assignments. She asked questions if she wasn’t sure on something. Sabrina also kept her focus on finishing her program to complete before her graduation date. So proud of her hard work and determination!”
Why did you choose dog grooming as a career?
I had been working as a manager at a pet store for almost 7 years when the opportunity to become a groomer became available. The company I work for offers Paragon and has grooming, and I had always been somewhat interested in learning. After watching the groomers at the store I ran, I just really fell in love with the idea of being able to work more closely with dogs, and actually making more of an impact in the world by helping animals feel better.
What did you enjoy most during your coursework?
My favorite part so far was learning about the different tools and what you can achieve by using them in the correct situations and on the correct coat type. I also love the idea that things constantly change in the grooming world, and there’s always new items being developed to help groomers.
Where can we see your work?
Unfortunately, at the moment, I don’t really post anything I’ve worked on other than on Paragon. I know social media is huge in today’s world, and I think eventually I’ll start sharing on Instagram, but for now I just want to focus on learning what I can.
What are your future goals?
I just want to absorb everything I can by continuing taking classes, going to seminars, learning from fellow groomers, and just trying to stay constant with the ever evolving grooming world.
Any advice for aspiring groomers?
Grooming can definitely be scary at times, and there have been moments when I was worried this might not be the right path for me, but the outcome of everything you do is completely worth it. Seeing the parents’ face light up when they come to pick up their dog is just one of the greatest feelings. Or when a dog comes in, not in the greatest condition, and you’re able to make them feel better while also educating the pet parent, is amazing. Just hold your head high, and remember why you wanted to get into grooming in the first place, and realize the impact you have on the dog’s lives you touch everyday.