A Devotion to Animals
‘ The dogs who come here give us the best reviews.’
Sherri and Mark Perry – owners of Supergroomers – appreciate all the fivestar reviews their dog grooming service has received from humans, but it’s how their canine clients react that gives them the most joy.
“There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing one of ‘our’ dogs get excited and run up to enter the shop,” said Sherri.
“You know you’ve made a connection with them.”
It is really no wonder that those pups are so happy: each receives a salonquality shampoo and conditioner, a mini massage, blueberry facial, shea butter pad and paw treatment, a ‘pawdicure’ and a warm fluff dry, all executed with patience and kindness. You’d be blissed out, too.
But what sets them apart from most groomers is “fear-free grooming.” Every pet is evaluated for personality and temperament and treated like an individual. “The entire process is designed to give the dog the absolute best experience possible,” Sherri noted. “Sometimes it takes a little more time and effort but the end result is always worth it.”
“If they’re anxious we slow down,
speak softly and gain trust. For the really anxious or aggressive, we have a special protocol that includes CBD and aromatherapy. Every dog gets a soft bed, water (“Filtered, of course,” Mark interjected with a smile), rest and potty breaks.”
“It’s an approach full of love,” Sherri remarked, as she selected grooming scissors from a collection of hundreds to style the happy pup before her.
Sherri has 34 years in the industry and has attained the degree of nationally certified Master Groomer, the highest certification with the National Dog Groomers of America. “It is the equivalent of a doctorate degree in Pet Grooming,” she noted.
The staff at Supergroomers is carefully chosen for their patience with and aptitude for animal care. “Mark and I are passionate about teaching our craft,” she continued. “We have developed a complete training curriculum for employees including study guides and practical and written tests. The goal is to empower our staff and guide them to certification in the industry.”
As a result the staff collectively holds 21 certifications in everything from animal handling, coat and skin care, first aid and CPR, and they regularly attend
trade shows and seminars to continue their education.
Junior groomer Austina Hall concurrently serves as Assistant Manager of the shop, and apprentice Hannah May Tyree is also on her way to being a certified groomer. Dog trainer Oscar Gonzales; part-time groomer Alexa Moore; and bather Alyssa Romo round out the crew. “We are happy to provide good paying jobs and career training to seven Taoseños so far.”
The Perry’s devotion to animals spills beyond the door of Supergroomers. The two frequently provide pro bono “doggie makeovers” to the pups at Stray Hearts Animal Shelter awaiting their forever homes. “We want them to look their best, and give them the best chance at adoption. Its our way of giving back.”
The dynamic duo recently purchased a beautiful home and property to expand their services with the best in pet boarding. “No chain link and no concrete: Each pet has a mini suite with little couches and memory foam beds. Its just like home.” They also hope to add mobile service and possibly pick up and delivery in 2021.
Sherri has worked her canine magic across the country and, before Taos, called New York her home. In
addition to her private business there, she was grooming dogs for television, commercials, and fashion shows. It was glamorous, she admitted, but, “I realized I wanted to move somewhere more quiet; maybe bring my skills to a small mountain town.”
When she met Mark – at the time a Wall Street executive recruiter – they discovered in each other a passion for animals. They began an internet search for businesses up for sale and found Supergroomers. “We came out here and fell in love with Taos,” Mark said. “We love the energy, the people and, especially, the pets.”
“If you have a genuine heart, people will accept you wherever you go,” Sherri mused. But it is clear the Perrys have brought much more with them to Taos. Bring your pups to Supergroomers and meet these pet-grooming super heroes for yourself.
Supergroomers adheres to practices in compliance with all state and local COVID-19 safety requirements.
Supergroomers is located at 1033 Paseo del Pueblo Sur, Suite G, Taos, NM 87571. For further information or to make an appointment, please call (575) 613-2825, or contact them at supergroomersoftaos@gmail.com.