Everyday People features the people who make the greater Ingleside neighborhood a special part of San Francisco.
Any dog looks fresh and clean after a visit to pet groomer Rose Meneses.
Opportunity knocked when Meneses and her friend Michelle Saadeh, owner of The Pawber Shop, wanted to make the switch from corporate-style work in 2010. Saadeh set out to open the pet grooming boutique with her mother and brought Meneses along with her. Though the San Francisco native hasn’t stayed at the shop the entire 15 years, dabbling in other jobs, Meneses said she always finds her way back.
“I love animals,” Meneses said. “Always have.”
Though the job can require less-than-glamorous tasks, such as picking up a lot of poop, the 37-year-old Geneva Avenue resident says the people, the clients and the dogs keep her coming back for more.
“Working here, it's a lot of fun,” Meneses said. “It can be challenging some days, but it's always rewarding.”
The Ingleside Light caught up with Menses to learn what it takes to be a pet groomer.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
What does a typical shift look like for you?
Opening the shop, checking in dogs, grooming dogs, bathing dogs, answering the phone, setting up appointments, cleaning — all of that is nonstop.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time here?
Hanging out with these guys, with all my coworkers. We’re all pretty close, so we go out whenever we can. During our break time, we'll all hang out, make the time to do it.
Which breed of dog is your favorite to work with?
Shih Tzu. They're a little spicy with their attitudes, but they're super cute. I just like their personality. They're sweet but spicy like a Sour Patch Kid.
What’s one piece of advice you have for someone who wants to get into dog grooming?
Good luck. I mean, it's not for the faint of heart. You definitely have to want to do this to get in this tough kind of work. Definitely not for everyone.
Anne Marie Kristoff (she/her) is a recent graduate from San Francisco State University's journalism program. She enjoys writing about the arts, entertainment and nature.
