As a groomer and business owner, my impact doesn't just come from picking up my tools, it comes from picking up the pets and people who need someone to care. Grooming, for me, has never been just a service. It's a calling. It's a way to restore comfort, dignity, and love to animals who can't speak for themselves. Also, a way to build a relationship with the owner and the pet. It also is a good time to educate the owner about grooming without judging, but showing them what the pet requires, they walk away feeling empowered.
When a pet is matted, uncomfortable, or overlooked because their family can't afford grooming, or pet owner has passed on and now the pet is with family who have never had a pet. Or LIFE has just decided to LIFE. I feel that in my heart. I see the fear, the pain, the confusion and or embarrassment . And I know that with patience, gentleness, and time, I can give that pet relief and a fresh start. I've held pets that were breaking inside and watched them transform the moment the weight of their coat and their stress was lifted. They were like new pets, refreshed and ready for a great start.
Through LC'S Detroit Pet Salon and LC'S Foundation, I make sure finances never stop a pet from getting the care they deserve. Whether it's offering free or low-cost grooming, partnering with the Michigan Humane Society, or stepping in for cruelty cases and families in crisis, I show up because every animal deserves to be seen, touched gently, and treated with kindness.
My impact is personal. It's in the wag of a tail after a grooming session. It's in a relieved owner who feels supported rather than judged. It's in knowing that, even if I can't fix the world, I can change this moment for this pet locally and internationally.
That's what drives me. Sometimes the smallest thing that could be huge for someone else, or make an impact. You never know, so if I feel the need to do a nail trim or a groom for free, or clean up the dogs face , or do a tidy on them/sanitary clean. I am not only helping that pet, but I am helping that person. It could be are conversation as they are telling me about themselves or how much their pet means to them, or how they ended up with their pet . I enjoy those moments. That human connection. I could go on and on. That's why I do what I do. And that's how I know I'm making a difference. One pet, one family, one act of compassion at a time.
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Tonya Smith
Founder
LC'S Foundation
Michigan
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Original Message:
Sent: 12-01-2025 11:55 AM
From: Sheila Kouhkan
Subject: Community Conversations - 12/1/2025 - Accessible Pet Grooming Services for Underserved Populations
Thanks to our speakers, @TERRYL Daluz and @Andrea Carter - and everyone who joined us today!
We would love to hear from you in response to today's reflection question: How can you personally impact the life of a pet in need of grooming services but can't afford it?
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Sheila Kouhkan
Senior Education Specialist
Maddie's Fund
CA
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