Client Spotlight: Toni Kelley, Co-Owner, and Deborah McNeal Co-Owner
What do you love most about what you do?
Toni: Providing a safe loving environment for all furry kids in the area
Deborah: Meeting and caring for the many different dogs in our area.
Was there a person or experience that inspired your career?
Toni: I've always loved animals and started out bathing for a grooming salon while in college. I fell in love with the dogs. The owner took me under her wing and began teaching me grooming. She was a master groomer and had over 20 years of experience. Working under her for 3-4 years absorbing all her knowledge and expertise about not just handling techniques or hairstyles but also dog behavior and what to look for health-wise. As a groomer, you see their dogs 7-10 times more than the vet does so we are trained to alert pet owners of any new lumps or bumps.
Deborah: I can honestly say that Toni Kelley (the other owner of The Ruff House FXBG) is the reason for me wanting to work in this field of business. I worked for her for years on her mobile dog grooming van, ClipNk9z. On top of that, we have been friends for about 30 years. As far as being an owner I wanted better financial security to help support my family while still doing something that I love.
What does your business do better than anyone else?
Toni: We provide over 23 years of experience in the pet industry. With that, I can train the staff on the best ways of handling the dogs and the knowledge to provide safe play groups for our customer's pets. I also mentor them and teach them the best ways to correct dog behavior and get them to listen and follow commands.
Deborah: I feel like we bring a lot to the table with already have experience in working with dogs. We can provide a safe and loving environment for them as well as many additional services.
What do you wish you could change?
Toni: Some people's view on boarding facilities. I'd like to be a place people know is safe for their dogs and trust to give every dog the proper care they need as if they are our own. Going away on a trip is a lot to stress about, I want their dog's safety and comfort to not be one of them.
Deborah: I think that leaving your dog anywhere can be very worrisome to many different people and I do hope that we can eliminate some of that stress for the owners.
Tell us about you!
Toni: I love art, I used to draw a lot as a kid and almost made a career out of it til I fell in love with grooming. I like camping and being outside. Taking my dogs to the river or lake.
Deborah: I'm pretty simple. I wouldn't really say that I have many hobbies. I like to relax, watch television shows, and spend time with friends and family. I love good meals and good coffee.
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