Kelly Davis, owner of KD Grooming Studio, is our April Groomer of the Month. From early hands-on experience to building a business rooted in trust, education, and wellbeing, Kelly shares her journey, her mentors, and her passion for shaping a more professional, respected grooming industry.
How did you first get started in grooming, and what inspired you to choose this as your career path?
I first got started in grooming through work experience at Canine Design with Lesley, just three weeks into my journey working with dogs, being hands-on in a real salon environment gave me early exposure to the skill, care, patience, and trust required in professional grooming. At the end of those three weeks, I was offered a job, which confirmed for me that grooming wasn’t just a job, but a career path I wanted to fully commit to and grow within.
Have you had any stand-out mentors along the way?
I’ve been lucky to have some truly special mentors along my journey. My dad was my very first mentor and my biggest supporter throughout my business career. Losing him last year was incredibly hard, but his guidance, encouragement, and belief in me still shape everything I do. His influence will always be a part of my journey.
Professionally, I’ve also had the benefit of learning from highly respected industry mentors, including Lesley Garrett, Julie Harris, and Denise Westbrook. Each of them has contributed to my development in different ways, helping to shape my skills, confidence, and professional standards over the years.
Can you walk us through how you run your business day to day—what makes your salon or service unique?
My business is built on quality, education, and meeting the individual needs of each pet. Every day is designed to ensure dogs and cats are groomed in a calm, respectful environment, with their comfort and wellbeing always the top priority. What truly sets my salon apart is the focus on building trust—with both pets and their owners—and the commitment to teaching and mentoring students, all while providing a grooming service with caring, attentive customer care.
What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your grooming career or business, and how have you overcome them?
Like many groomers, balancing the physical demands of the job with running a business is tough—especially in today’s climate. On top of that, maintaining high standards while teaching clients and students adds another layer of challenge. I tackle this by continuously learning, streamlining my processes, and surrounding myself with supportive professionals who are as committed to growth and education as I am.
What do you love most about being a pet groomer, and what keeps you passionate about the work?
What I love most is the bond I build with every dog and cat I groom—earning their trust is incredibly special. I’m also passionate about the skill and creativity involved in grooming, while always prioritizing the health and wellbeing of every pet. Helping students learn the craft, grow in confidence, and build their own successful grooming businesses is just as rewarding as the grooming itself.
What tips or lessons would you share with aspiring groomers to help them build both their skills and confidence?
Knowledge is everything. Never stop learning, whether that’s breed standards, handling techniques, animal behaviour, or business skills. Confidence comes with education, experience, and being open to growth.
Where do you see the grooming industry heading in the next few years, and how do you plan to evolve alongside it?
I hope to see more regulation, education, and professional development within the industry. As grooming continues to evolve, I plan to evolve with it, by continuing to educate myself and others, adapting to higher standards, and helping shape a more informed and respected grooming profession.
