Taylor Vader is a skilled Dog Groomer and Expert Archer hailing from Garden Ridge, Texas. With a passion for animals and a talent for archery, Taylor has excelled in both fields, leaving a mark as a dedicated professional.
Growing up in a family where education was highly valued, Taylor’s mother, a teacher, instilled in him a strong work ethic and a thirst for knowledge. Taylor’s commitment to academic excellence was evident throughout his high school years at Lindale High School, where he maintained a stellar 4.0 GPA. As an Eagle scout and an avid tennis player, Taylor developed discipline and determination that would later translate into his professional endeavors.
Continuing his educational journey, Taylor pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Studies at Texas A&M University. During his time at the university, he demonstrated leadership qualities and a passion for personal growth by earning a Leadership and Development certificate. Additionally, Taylor’s involvement in the Corps of Cadets in Squadron 16 showcased his commitment to teamwork and a strong sense of responsibility.
Taylor’s affinity for animals led him to pursue a career in veterinary care. He gained valuable experience as a veterinary manager at Northwood Animal Hospital, where he honed his skills in animal care and customer service. Currently, Taylor thrives as a Dog Groomer at PetSuites San Antonio Airport, providing top-notch grooming services to beloved pets.
Outside of his work in the veterinary field, Taylor’s true passion lies in archery. With a membership in USArchery and a participation in SYWAT archery tournaments, he has established himself as an accomplished archer. Taylor aspires to compete at the highest level and has set his sights on qualifying for the Olympic Games in archery.
Taylor Vader’s dedication to both the well-being of animals and the pursuit of excellence in archery exemplifies his drive, skill, and determination. With a strong foundation in education and a love for his chosen fields, Taylor continues to make a positive impact in the lives of pets and the archery community alike.
How did you get started in this business?
I started by learning on my own dog, a miniature schnauzer. At the time that we got her we didn’t factor in the dog grooming expense and we just didn’t have the money to get her groomed. That was when my wife said I should just learn to groom her. Using some hand-me-down clippers and shears I studied Youtube groomers and how they groomed schnauzers. It took me a few tries but eventually I ended up leaving the “professional” world by using my pup as a resume at different grooming shops. One of them liked what I did and agreed to take me on and train me to be a full fledged groomer.
How does your company make money?
Working for established shops and corporations has been extremely helpful with being profitable. I have contemplated opening my own shop but for now I have a loyal clientele that I enjoy.
How does your company go about acquiring new customers?
At our dog grooming business, we acquire new customers through a combination of word-of-mouth referrals, online presence, and community engagement. My journey as a groomer began by grooming my own dog and showcasing my skills at different grooming shops. Working for established shops helped me build a loyal clientele. My passion for animals and dedication to improving their well-being has also attracted clients. I prioritize providing excellent service and building trust with pet parents. Additionally, I mentor aspiring groomers through an online grooming school partnership. While opening my own shop is a long-term goal, success to me lies in contentment, making a difference, and living a life of kindness.
How did you work your way up in this business?
I worked my way up in this business by starting with grooming my own dog and learning through online resources like YouTube. I used hand-me-down tools and practiced grooming schnauzers until I gained enough skill and confidence. I approached different grooming shops, using my dog as a resume, and one of them agreed to train me as a full-fledged groomer. Working for established shops and corporations provided valuable experience and profitability. Along the way, my passion for animals and dedication to their well-being fueled my desire to continually improve and help pets look and feel their best.
What made you want to work in this industry?
I was initially drawn to this industry when I couldn’t afford professional grooming for my own dog, a miniature schnauzer. Inspired by my wife’s suggestion, I embarked on a journey of self-learning through online resources and practicing on my pup. What truly motivated me was my deep passion for animals and the joy of helping them look and feel their best. The flexible schedule also allows me to spend quality time with my family and pursue my other passion as an archer. Success, to me, lies in finding contentment and making a positive impact on others’ lives.
What is it that you feel makes you good at your job?
My passion for animals. I have always had a soft spot for furry things. When I started grooming I didn’t realize the full scope of the help that I would be providing for pets. I learned what I could about the skin and coat, and there have been many times that I have worked with pet parents to improve, if not cure, skin issues holistically. I enjoy helping pets feel and look their best.
What are the perks of working in this type of business?
I get to work until I am done. This is not a traditional 9-5 so I have extra time. There are some days that I get done early and get to go home. I can help out around the house more so that my wife can relax after work as well. I also have time to pursue my hobby as an archer. I am training so that hopefully I can make it to the 2028 Olympics.
What are the disadvantages of working in this field?
Working in this field has its disadvantages. A tip and commission-based one role can bring financial uncertainties and the pressure to acquire enough clients for a stable income. Additionally, grooming can be challenging, as it requires artistic skills to sculpt hair on often restless animals. While I found a supportive mentor and have a wonderful motivating spouse, self-doubt and fear of clients’ dissatisfaction were initial obstacles. Despite these challenges, the fulfillment of helping pets, the flexibility of working hours, and the opportunity to pursue my passion as an archer outweigh the disadvantages.
What’s the most rewarding part of your work?
The most rewarding part of my work is the opportunity to make a positive impact on animals’ lives. Grooming allows me to help pets feel and look their best, and I have been able to work with pet parents to address and improve various skin issues holistically. Seeing the transformation and knowing that I’ve played a role in their well-being brings me immense satisfaction. Additionally, the flexibility of my work schedule allows me to spend quality time with my family and pursue my passion as an archer, working towards my dream of participating in the 2028 Olympics. Mentoring aspiring groomers is also fulfilling, as I can share my knowledge and inspire others in the field.
Where is your industry headed? What excites you about the future of this line of work?
The grooming industry is heading towards greater recognition of its importance in pet care and well-being. As people become more aware of the benefits of professional grooming, the demand for skilled groomers is expected to grow. This excites me because it means more opportunities to make a positive impact on pets’ lives and help pet parents improve their pets’ overall health and appearance. Additionally, the industry is embracing technology and online education, like the partnership between PetSuites and Paragon Grooming School, which allows me to mentor aspiring groomers and share my knowledge with a wider audience. The future holds immense potential for growth and innovation in this line of work, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.
What advice do you give people who want to get into your field of work?
My advice for those who want to get into dog grooming is to start by gaining hands-on experience with your own dog or volunteering at local animal shelters. Study grooming techniques through online resources and seek mentorship or training opportunities with established groomers or grooming schools. Building confidence and mastering the skills takes time and practice, so be patient and persistent. Embrace opportunities to work for established shops or corporations to gain experience and build a clientele. Don’t be afraid to take risks and consider opening your own shop in the future. Remember, success is finding contentment and making a positive impact on pets’ lives.
Are you willing to be a mentor? If so, how should someone contact you?
I really enjoy mentoring people. Currently, PetSuites has partnered with Paragon Grooming School, which is an online grooming school. I am one of the coaches for the program. Even though I feel like it is easier to learn in person, the program does a great job and it pushes me even more, since I have to explain things to students instead of just showing them. But this is, in a way, just like how I first learned to groom so I have that to fall back on when talking with my students.