Melissa Woods, Owner Operator
I didn't find this profession, it found me! My love of pets is no secret as they have always been a huge part of my life.
I started working with animals in the professional sense as a manager at a local pet store. From there, I turned my attention towards the medical field as an Animal Care Assistant where I would spend the next several years working in animal hospitals supporting some incredibly talented Veterinarians. It was here that I was able to learn the unique skills that are needed to handle special needs animals. In 2006, I decided to return to school and obtained an honours certificate as a professional dog groomer.
Armed with years of ACA training, an advanced groomer's certificate, and an abundance of energy, I then made the decision to branch off and launch my career as a professional groomer for the large corporate salons.
My reputation as a talented and caring groomer quickly spread through the community and so did the demand for my services. Still, I felt that something was missing. Dogs were being dropped off and picked up by the dozens, often without me even seeing or talking to the owners. This was not my vision and I vowed to make a difference. So, in 2008, I founded Goochie Poochie and to this day, continue to build my business, one loyal customer at a time.
My advise to anyone looking for a groomer is simple... ask other pet owners. There are many terrific salons out there with just as many gifted and caring groomers. Find one that listens to you and more importantly, bonds with your dog. If your dog has special needs, make sure your groomer is equipped and trained to handle whatever may be required. Not all groomers are equipped to handle neurological, post-operative surgery cases, or physical disabilities.
I started working with animals in the professional sense as a manager at a local pet store. From there, I turned my attention towards the medical field as an Animal Care Assistant where I would spend the next several years working in animal hospitals supporting some incredibly talented Veterinarians. It was here that I was able to learn the unique skills that are needed to handle special needs animals. In 2006, I decided to return to school and obtained an honours certificate as a professional dog groomer.
Armed with years of ACA training, an advanced groomer's certificate, and an abundance of energy, I then made the decision to branch off and launch my career as a professional groomer for the large corporate salons.
My reputation as a talented and caring groomer quickly spread through the community and so did the demand for my services. Still, I felt that something was missing. Dogs were being dropped off and picked up by the dozens, often without me even seeing or talking to the owners. This was not my vision and I vowed to make a difference. So, in 2008, I founded Goochie Poochie and to this day, continue to build my business, one loyal customer at a time.
My advise to anyone looking for a groomer is simple... ask other pet owners. There are many terrific salons out there with just as many gifted and caring groomers. Find one that listens to you and more importantly, bonds with your dog. If your dog has special needs, make sure your groomer is equipped and trained to handle whatever may be required. Not all groomers are equipped to handle neurological, post-operative surgery cases, or physical disabilities.
Kenedi, Groomer
For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had an affinity for animals and have been a creative person. I started my career as a groomer 12 years ago, and it was the best decision I’ve ever made. Being able to express my creativity while enjoying the company of animals is a dream come true for me!
With my laid back personality, I find that the dogs in my care know they can trust me (and their owners too!) I’ve spent the majority of my career working with animals who need a little bit extra when it comes to grooming, and I’ve built many wonderful relationships.
I could never see myself doing anything other than dog grooming, that’s how much I love it. And I can’t wait to share my passion with you, and your dogs!
For as long as I can remember, I’ve always had an affinity for animals and have been a creative person. I started my career as a groomer 12 years ago, and it was the best decision I’ve ever made. Being able to express my creativity while enjoying the company of animals is a dream come true for me!
With my laid back personality, I find that the dogs in my care know they can trust me (and their owners too!) I’ve spent the majority of my career working with animals who need a little bit extra when it comes to grooming, and I’ve built many wonderful relationships.
I could never see myself doing anything other than dog grooming, that’s how much I love it. And I can’t wait to share my passion with you, and your dogs!
Heather, Groomer
Dogs have been the biggest part of my life for as far back as I can remember, so accepting a position to pamper them full time was a no-brainer!
Born and raised in Hamilton, I originally began my grooming career as a side job at a corporate salon. Very quickly, I realized that I wanted to pursue this passion full time. I attended a grooming program in Calgary, where I dove into learning about as many breeds and trims possible in the weeks spent out west. After returning and building several lifelong relationships with many loyal clients, I moved to Georgetown and accepted a roll to manage a salon for corporate.
Since I began my career 6 years ago, I've dreamt of a salon like Goochie Poochie. The conveyer-belt style of grooming and stressful, high-volume environments that come with corporate salons is never something I've truly believed in, so finding Melissa and seeing her passion was a breath of fresh air. I adore each client that walks in the door and I'm over the moon to finally work somewhere that allows me to take my time pampering them one-on-one!
I take pride in not only my quality of work, but also in the compassion and gentle demeanor I bring with me each day. I adore working with senior and special needs dogs, and I always strive to provide a positive grooming experience that begins & ends with a wagging tail!
On my days off you can find me hiking and camping with my 13-year-old Bichon, Champ!
Born and raised in Hamilton, I originally began my grooming career as a side job at a corporate salon. Very quickly, I realized that I wanted to pursue this passion full time. I attended a grooming program in Calgary, where I dove into learning about as many breeds and trims possible in the weeks spent out west. After returning and building several lifelong relationships with many loyal clients, I moved to Georgetown and accepted a roll to manage a salon for corporate.
Since I began my career 6 years ago, I've dreamt of a salon like Goochie Poochie. The conveyer-belt style of grooming and stressful, high-volume environments that come with corporate salons is never something I've truly believed in, so finding Melissa and seeing her passion was a breath of fresh air. I adore each client that walks in the door and I'm over the moon to finally work somewhere that allows me to take my time pampering them one-on-one!
I take pride in not only my quality of work, but also in the compassion and gentle demeanor I bring with me each day. I adore working with senior and special needs dogs, and I always strive to provide a positive grooming experience that begins & ends with a wagging tail!
On my days off you can find me hiking and camping with my 13-year-old Bichon, Champ!