1. What is your name?

My name is Renee' Sainato

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2. How long have you been grooming dogs?

I have been grooming show dogs since I was twelve but have been working as an all breed pet groomer for over 15 years.

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3. How long has Ooh Lala Pet Spaw been in business?

We first opened in 2016 as an in home groomer, we became mobile in 2018, moved to Jacksonville, FL in 2020 and came back to VA in 2024. We were formally known as Busy Disi Pet Services but changed our name to Ooh Lala Pet Spaw in 2025 when we revamped and reopened our mobile grooming business.

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4. What is your favorite breed of dog to groom and why?

I have quite a few breeds I absolutely love to groom; Sporting breeds, especially retrievers, because they have my heart. I also enjoy deshedding Huskies & German Shepherds, I love how great they look when they're finished. I like breeds with drop coats like Yorkies, Shih Tzus, etc. because I find the coat easy to groom. I, of course, like the curly coated breeds like poodles, doodles, etc. because they can really transform with a good grooming! Finally, I love double- coated, plush breeds like Pomeranians & Chows because they look like teddy bears when they're finished! Okay, I really just like all breeds ;-) 

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5. How do you ensure pets aren't injured during the grooming process?

I worked for a vet and learned proper veterinary restraint for both dogs & cats. I am fear free and AKC S.A.F.E. Certified. I also have taken many courses in animal behavior and body language, I use this knowledge to move at the animals pace in grooming. This helps prevent the animal from injuring themselves. I never leave a pet unattended in the tub or on my table. I don't take phone calls/texts while I'm grooming to limit distractions. I also have basket style muzzles that will not interfere with an animal's breathing that I will use as a last resort for everyone's safety. Finally, I put your pet's needs first, that means I won't cause undue pain from dematting or any other grooming technique. I believe in a partnership with my clients in upkeeping their pet between grooms, if this can't be done, I won't torture a pet to get a specific "look". Humanity before Vanity Always.

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6. How do you deal with pets with anxiety or afraid?

I watch their body language and allow them to dictate the speed of the groom. I never rush. I adjust my handling of the animal to suit their needs. Some pets need a cheerleader and some need someone who's confident and fast. I can do both or something in between. 

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7. What made you decide to be a pet groomer?

I was in school to become a dog trainer and spent a week helping in a grooming salon, I enjoyed it so much I changed my career path and became a groomer. I enjoy my job wholeheartedly and couldn't imagine doing something else!

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8. How do you avoid clipper rash/ razor burn?

I only use clean, cool and sharp blades. I play close attention to the angle that I'm using my clippers at. If I think a dog is at risk for clipper irritation; especially if I know they're sensitive or matted, I wash the dog in an aloe based shampoo and use an after shave spray. Obviously, some dogs are just sensitive but I do my best to prevent any irritation. If I notice before the pet leaves, I always notify the owner

 

9. How do you insure you aren't bitten or scratched by pets?

I know animal body language very well and respect warning signs from the animal. I am trained in restraint which reduces the risk of injury to myself & the pet. If I feel it's warranted, I use basket style muzzles to protect myself and the pet. I try to trim nails first to prevent scratches as well. I can also admit when I am not equipped to groom a specific, high anxiety pet and will refer to a vet who has the tools to make the groom less stressful for the pet which ensures the safety of the groomer and your pet. 

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