A better grooming experience for your dog.
Nearly 30 years of hands-on grooming experience, with gentle, patient care and a special love for puppies and small breeds. Currently grooming at Happy Paws Pet Spa in Lakeland.
Experience matters. So does trust.
I started my grooming career in Michigan as a bather and learned the profession through years of hands-on work with dogs of different breeds, coats, personalities, and comfort levels.
Nearly three decades later, I still love the same thing about grooming: earning a dog's trust and sending them home looking great and feeling comfortable.
I especially enjoy working with puppies and small breeds, and I take extra time with nervous dogs so the grooming process can become familiar instead of frightening.
See My WorkGood grooming is more than a haircut.
A successful groom should leave your dog looking polished while also protecting their skin, coat, nails, comfort, and confidence around grooming.
Positive Puppy Starts
Early grooming experiences can shape how a dog feels about grooming for years. Valerie introduces puppies patiently to the sights, sounds, handling, and routine.
Individualized Grooming
Every groom is adjusted to the dog's coat, condition, lifestyle, personality, and the owner's preferences rather than treating every dog the same.
Patient, Gentle Handling
Shy or nervous dogs need trust, not a stopwatch. Valerie focuses on making the appointment as calm and manageable as possible.
Fresh faces, fluffy finishes.
A few recent dogs groomed by Valerie.
Questions before booking?
How often should my dog be groomed?
Many dogs benefit from professional grooming about every four to eight weeks, depending on breed, coat type, haircut, lifestyle, and how easily the coat mats.
Do you groom puppies?
Yes. Puppy grooming is one of Valerie's specialties, with extra attention given to creating a calm and positive first experience.
What if my dog is nervous?
Let Valerie know when you request the appointment. She works patiently with nervous dogs and adjusts her approach to the individual dog whenever possible.
How long will the appointment take?
Timing varies with breed, coat condition, services needed, behavior, and the day's schedule. The salon can give you a better estimate after learning about your dog.
Where does Valerie groom?
Valerie currently grooms at Happy Paws Pet Spa, 5131 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, FL 33813.
Tell me about your dog.
Send a grooming request and Valerie can follow up about availability. If you prefer, call Happy Paws Pet Spa directly and ask for Valerie.
5131 S. Florida Ave.
Lakeland, FL 33813