The Comb & Collar hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Lakeland Mall in Vermilion on February 9.
The Town of Vermilion presented sole proprietor, Sasha Hanlon, with a plaque in celebration of her new pet grooming business.
“We’re always thrilled to see a new business opening up, and we are looking forward to the strong support from the community,” said Mayor Greg Throndson.
Hanlon has lived in Vermilion for the past 14 years and graduated from Lakeland College as a Veterinary Medical Assistant in 2015. While doing her practicum, she happened to see a groomer and was hooked ever since. Instead of seeing the dogs sad she liked making them pretty instead, and said she went on to receive more training from the top groomer in the area.
“Being my first venture as an entrepreneur, I knew the equipment was going to be expensive and I was afraid I wasn’t going to build up my clients, but since opening December 1, it was so nice to get all my old clients back; it’s nice to have supporters,” said Hanlon. “My favourite part of grooming is starting a puppy. They don’t know what to expect and are scared. When the parents (owners) take my advice and come regularly, they grow and flourish, and can relax.”
She said pet grooming is a skill in very high demand and hard to learn, so she currently has clients travelling from Mannville, Elk Point, St. Paul, and Lloydminster. Convinced it was her personality as well as her talent that kept them coming, Councillor Rob Pulyk said, “The more services that are here, the more dollars stay in the community, which helps build jobs and economic development.”
“I’m very thankful to the Town, my family, and the community for the encouragement,” said Hanlon.
To see recent work, you can follow her at The Comb & Collar Vermilion on Facebook. They are open Tuesday - Saturday from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. For more information or to book an appointment you can call 780-853-7949.