A Turn "Fur" the Better
January 1, 2007
Easter Seals helps get pet grooming booming in Stony Mountain
Judy Smith-Hill had been in accounting for over 30 years when carpal tunnel syndrome and the beginning stages of Osteoporosis began to make working on a computer a painful experience.
Judy soon found herself facing some tough decisions about her career future. She decided to go into business for herself.
“I found myself laid off and decided it was now or never,” says Judy.
As a person who loves animals and had previous experience grooming pets, Judy decided to go into the grooming business professionally. But she needed a little help getting started.
Fortunately, she was referred to the SMD Interlake Regional Office in Selkirk where she met Rehabilitation Counsellor, Carman Kowalchuk. Carman connected Judy to SMD’s Vocational Rehabilitation Services where she was able to secure a start-up grant.
“Carmen was great,” says Judy. “She got me a grant for $1,000 which I used towards further training with an international award-winning Master Groomer and a further $1,000 grant I used toward purchasing more equipment.”
Today, the Doing Time Pet Spa serves approximately 400 customers with new ones coming in every week. It keeps Judy – the owner and sole employee – pretty busy.
“My business has grown steadily in my first year, says Judy. “It started slow and now I get tons of referrals from satisfied customers.”
Not only has Judy discovered a job she loves doing, she’s also received some additional good news.
“My doctor has also informed me that because I am building muscles in my new profession, I have actually slowed down the Osteoporosis,” says Judy. “The muscle takes the weight off of my bones.”
SMD’s Vocational Rehabilitation Services are available thanks in part to the funding provided through Easter Seals Manitoba. Judy believes it’s important to have such organizations in place – because they believe in the people they serve.
“I think these organizations are great and really help people with disabilities,” says Judy. “They really made me feel like I could do anything I set my mind to.”
“I am a firm believer in following your dreams, and organizations such as SMD – and Easter Seals Manitoba – really helped me do that.”
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