My first dog was a yellow labrador called Bess. I have many happy memories of her and labradors are still very special to me.
After Bess it was a long time before I had a dog again. This was due to going to university and work commitments. When we did get a dog again we decided on a cairn terrier. I have done agility and obedience with cairns and now show them.
Why dog grooming?
When I started showing my cairn I learnt how to style her hair for the show ring. It is something I immensely enjoy and it has naturally grown from there.
Training
Vanessa has trained under Jitka Krizova at Vita Canis (previously known as the Staffordshire Grooming Academy), which is based at the world famous Saredon Terrier Kennels. Jitka is one of the country’s leading dog groomers, was a member of Groomteam England for several years and often judges at grooming competitions.
Vanessa visits Jitka on a regular basis so that she can continue to develop her skills from one of the best.
To quote Jitka
“Well done again! You are the most talented student I have ever had!”
April 2011
“It made me appreciate you as a student even more for the knowledge you already had, passion and professional approach.”
February 2012
Qualifications
Vanessa is City and Guilds qualified, having obtained her level 3 Introduction to Dog Grooming with Distinction. She has gained her level 3 Diploma and is a member of The Groomers Spotlight.
Vanessa also holds a current pet first aid certificate.
Cairn terriers…grooming and handling for show
Vanessa grooms and handles her own Cairn Terriers at breed shows. She also judges.
For further details on Vanessa and her Cairns and how it all started visit littlemisstonka.co.uk
For more details on Cairns in general visit the Midland Cairn Terrier Club.
