groomingdales pet spa   the day spa for pampered pets

My name is Elaine Chelak and I am your pet's stylist.  I am a 1999 graduate of the Nash Academy of Animal Arts.  I then appprenticed part time for several years before opening groomingdales July 1, 2002.  

Before making a career change, I was in the retail world as a retail buyer and planner.  I have also been an animal rescuer for 16 years and co-founded and run Angel Pets Animal Welfare Society, Inc.  It was my love of animals and my desire to work with them full time that led me to change professions. 

I have an extensive background in animal care and handling.  I am an amatuer dog and cat behaviorist with continuing education credits from Cornell University and other seminars and hands on classes on behavior.  I am also a Certified Animal Control Officer for the State of New Jersey. 

I attend 2-3 training seminars and master classes every year to learn the latest in breed styling techniques (yes! Doggie hair styles DO change!), advance my knowledge of skin and coat care, expand my training and behavior knowledge and to keep up with state of the art equipment for my spa. 

(Walker and I waiting to start competing)

 I have also begun to compete in pet styling competitions to test my skills against some of the best groomers across the world! 

 I am also Red Cross First Aid and CPR certified for animals. 

In addition, I am the 2005 recipient of the Hershey Groom Expo Kindness Award, given to the one pet stylist, over the course of the weekend, who demonstrated the best and gentlest handling techniques with their dogs. 

My aim is to fulfill groomingdales mission of providing the safest most enjoyable spa experience your pampered pet can have. 

Xander

Meet our receptionist, Xander.  When he is not looking out the front window, laying in the sun in back, or keeping the loveseat warm, he guards the appointment book to make sure no one gets scheduled without his approval.  He does his job well.  I think we might be paying him too much, though.