By Stacey Dexter
We have veterinarians, daycare providers, specialists, and dogwalkers for our pets. But have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a dog groomer and the importance of them in our pets’ lives? Well, wonder no more.
I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Jenelle Jones, a talented dog groomer in Cottonwood with over 25 years’ experience, and my dog Woody’s personal stylist.
Jones moved to Arizona from Long Island, New York in 2003. She had gained valuable experience in the dog-grooming world and was determined to make it her career. She didn’t grow up dreaming of being a dog groomer, but as an animal lover, her earliest jobs led her straight into its arms.
She worked in pet stores, dog-grooming businesses, and the New York School of Dog Grooming. Jones wanted to be self-supporting and creative with her life’s work, so from receptionist to dog washer, daycare to dog grooming, she gained confidence through experience to unleash a passion (pun intended) for making each and every dog glow.
Years ago, Jones operated her own business, Loving Touch Grooming, out of her modest garage in Cottonwood. Through word of mouth, she grew her business to three hundred dedicated clients. Her skills accelerated over the next twelve years and though a breakup derailed her for a time, and she had to give up her home business, she continued to groom dogs nights and weekends, while also being a mom and working full time for others. Here is our interview.
Dexter: Describe for us what it’s like to be a self-taught dog groomer.
Jones: There are schools, but Arizona doesn’t require formal education or licensing, so learning as you go is doable. When I started out, I was determined to be successful. I took lots of pictures of my own work and ruthlessly critiqued them to help me to learn to scissor better.
I have loved seeing other groomers’ creativity on social media and was inspired at times, but mostly I just focus on my own work. I enjoy being in this industry as a service to becoming a better human through caring for and loving peoples’ fur babies. Making their pets their absolute cutest while honoring the dog’s needs is so rewarding.
Dexter: How many clients do you typically groom in a day and what’s your process?
Jones: I prefer to groom only three to four dogs a day, spending about two hours per dog. My approach remains the same for most dogs. I believe in giving a good brush out and overall inspection before the bath. I check the eyes, ears, pads and skin, and then do some shaping. During those inspections, I’ve often caught things that have gone unnoticed.
Owner education is important. Wiping eyes, brushing fur and checking paws keeps pets healthy in between grooms and acclimates the dog to being touched in these ways. I’ve seen too many chronic eye infections simply from the eyes not being wiped regularly. I’m not judging. I realize some people truly don’t know these things. At the kennel where I currently work, I’m able to customize my pace to each dog, always trying my best without stressing them out and that’s what fuels my workday now.
Dexter: What one tool has been the best invention for dog grooming since you began your career?
Jones: Hand’s down, the The Groomer’s Helper® is the single best tool in my large array of shop equipment. It helps to safely restrain the dog on the table while helping them feel secure. It’s a win-win for the dog and me.
Dexter: How do you manage your feelings when a dog comes in matted?
Jones: I don’t judge, I’m honestly grateful the dog has been brought in. Dematting work is dreadful. Most dogs don’t like it, and I don’t blame them. It’s a long and uncomfortable process. However, I have little tolerance for owners that expect a show-dog haircut on a matted dog. My preference is to shave them down, which is easier on them. Regular grooming can begin at future visits.
Dexter: Lastly, what are your favorite dog breeds?
Jones: Some of my favorites are extreme cases who come in biting and scared, and yet—with patience and kindness—they make a complete turnaround. Seeing them calmer and more trusting at each subsequent appointment is an accomplishment I treasure.
I also love the dramatic transformations. I once groomed a newly adopted dog who was seriously matted and had a pelt for a coat, embedded with foxtails. The dematting process was an unexpected joy for both of us. His relief was palpable.
Jones currently lives with her Husky-Bullnose mix, Sherri (pronounced Shreeeee) in Cottonwood. I’m grateful that she took the time to provide us with some details about an important profession that deserves our respect. Dog groomers give so much to our beloved pets. Thank you, Jenelle!
