Before finding her calling, Carlin worked a desk job that left her unfulfilled. Growing up around animals, she always felt happiest in their company. When she started grooming friends’ dogs as a hobby, something clicked—it wasn’t just about the grooming itself but about the joy of helping dogs feel comfortable and cared for. “I realized this was what I wanted to do,” Carlin says. “It combined my love for animals with something truly meaningful.” That passion led her to The Neon Dragon Dog Grooming Academy, where she honed her skills through hands-on training. The academy’s focus on practical experience prepared Carlin to work with dogs of all breeds and sizes, teaching her to navigate the unique challenges of grooming with patience and precision.

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Building a Business on the Farm

After completing her training, Carlin didn’t waste any time. She set up her grooming space in a corner of a machine shop on her family farmyard. With word of mouth as her primary marketing tool, her reputation quickly grew. Today, Carlin’s Doghouse stays busy with a steady stream of loyal clients who appreciate her convenience, care, and expertise.

Located at 17159 PR 205 West, Carey, MB, Carlin’s Doghouse offers the perfect solution for pet owners who don’t want to travel far for quality grooming services. “I love that people feel like they can count on me. Being part of a small community is special,” she shares.

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What Sets Carlin Apart

Carlin’s approach is rooted in compassion. She knows that grooming isn’t just about appearances—it’s about a dog’s comfort and well-being. For dogs with matted fur or farm animals that require extra patience, Carlin ensures every pet leaves her salon feeling better than when they arrived. “Sometimes the outcome doesn’t have to be perfect, but it does have to be comfortable for the dog,” she explains.

Her favorite part of grooming? Working with large dogs during bath-and-tidy sessions. The rhythmic process is satisfying, and the trust she builds with her furry clients is immensely rewarding.

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Challenges and Joys of Dog Grooming

Running a salon has its challenges, especially when working solo. “Sometimes you just need a second pair of hands,” Carlin admits. But her positive attitude keeps her going. She jokes that she often finds herself chatting with her clients—the dogs, of course.

Despite the occasional hurdles, Carlin loves the freedom her business provides. As a mom and farmer, she can plan her hours around her family and community needs.

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Advice for Aspiring Groomers

Carlin has learned many lessons in her grooming career, but one stands out: know when to say no. “Family comes first,” she says, adding that balance is key to staying happy and productive. For anyone considering a career in grooming, her advice is simple: “Be patient and always put the dog’s needs first. Success comes when you genuinely care about the animals you’re working with.”​