Village Groomer Owner Thankful to Be Industry's Top Dog

Most people want the absolute best for their pets.

If you are one of the thousands of clients that bring their pets to The Village Groomer & Pet Supply, in Walpole, you might like to know that your furry friend is at one of the best pet grooming salons in the country.

The Village Groomer, at 2245 Providence Highway, came away last month from the Cardinal Crystal Grooming Achievement Awards in Las Vegas - the industry's "version of the Oscars" - with the Retail Salon of the Year 2011 Award (Under 5 Units).

For owner Missi Salzberg, receiving the award was particularly special because it was voted on by her peers in the industry.

"It feels great to be recognized by our fellow professionals. That makes it pretty special. We have close to 3,000 grooming customers, so we know our local community appreciates what we do. To be honored by our fellow professional pet care community is really amazing on a whole different level," Missi said.

More so, it brings her great pride to continue the legacy that her parents Kathy and David started in 1969.

"It also makes me feel very proud to carry on what my parents began 43 years ago. My mom was so proud, and she survived a brain aneurysm last August, so it was really great to have her here to share this honor with. Last year was tough. She was in a coma for 4 months and it was very touch and go. That made this even more special," she said.

Missi was 4-years-old when the store first opened. Her father was a teacher and political activist-turned-groomer.

"I inherited the world of grooming from my mom and dad, and took a successful small business an grew it. The foundation was set by them, without question. I came in as another generation with new and different ideas, and had my mother's support across the board. It wasn't my intention to be in my family business when I was dreaming about a career, but there's no where I'd rather be now," she said.

The Village Groomer offers full grooming services including bathing, haircutting, teeth brushing, manicures, pedicures and even nail painting. Their shelves are stocked with a wide selection of pet foods and other supplies.

They also have an indoor play space and outdoor kennel area for those energetic pets.

"The VG is an amazing salon with an incredible staff. We educate people about food and wellness, health and training and try to be a resource for all things dogs and cats," Salzberg said.

While is it not quite thanking the Academy, Missi would like to give gratitude "to our beloved customers and this community that continues to support our business. Thank you for your dedication to the 'little guy.'

There are so many national chains and box stores out there, but The Village Groomer and other independent businesses are the backbone of the pet care industry and we genuinely love these pets like they are our own."