GALLERY: Meet Natalie Shull and some of her recent clients!
By: Johanna Elattar,
In Hornell, one small business has become synonymous with not only grooming excellence but also a deep, almost spiritual connection to the animals it serves. Groovy Groomers, owned and operated by Natalie Shull, has become a cornerstone for pet owners seeking more than just a routine trim for their beloved companions. Here, grooming is elevated to an art form, and every pet is treated with the care and respect they deserve.
Natalie Shull’s journey to becoming a pet groomer began in an unexpected place. As a child, she dreamed of donning a white coat as a veterinarian, driven by a love for animals that was as deep as it was unwavering. However, as life often does, it led her down a different path. Instead of veterinary school, Natalie found herself enrolling at the New York Academy of Pet Grooming. It was here that she discovered a new calling—one that allowed her to combine her love for animals with a burgeoning talent for grooming.
“Grooming, for me, is more than just cutting hair,” Natalie reflects. “It’s a way to connect with these animals on a deeper level, to understand them, and to help them feel their best. It’s like creating a living, breathing piece of art.”
One of the cornerstones of Natalie’s approach to grooming is her profound understanding of animal behavior. Unlike many in her field, Natalie doesn’t just see an animal’s exterior when they walk through her door. She sees their emotions, their fears, and their needs. This empathy allows her to create a calming environment where even the most anxious pets can feel at ease.
“Animals can feel everything,” Natalie explains with a seriousness that underscores her deep respect for her furry clients. “They pick up on our emotions. If we’re stressed, they’re stressed. If we’re calm, they’re calm. I’ve seen cats go into cardiac arrest simply because they were too frightened. It’s terrifying, but it’s also a reminder of how important it is to approach grooming with care and empathy.”
This philosophy has guided Natalie throughout her career, leading her to become one of the most sought-after groomers in the area. Her reputation for patience and kindness has made Groovy Groomers a haven for pets who might otherwise struggle in a more traditional grooming setting.
To Natalie, grooming isn’t just about making an animal look good—it’s about creating something beautiful while ensuring the pet’s well-being. She often refers to her work as “walking art,” a term that perfectly captures the creativity and precision that goes into every groom.
“Every animal is different,” she says. “Their fur, their skin, their temperament—it all plays a role in how I approach their groom. I’m not just cutting hair; I’m shaping it, styling it, making sure it complements the animal’s natural beauty.”
Her clients agree. Many come to Groovy Groomers for the popular “fluff and Buff” blowout, a service that leaves pets looking glamorous and feeling great. But it’s not just about aesthetics—Natalie is committed to the health of the pets she grooms. She meticulously checks for skin conditions, lumps, or other health issues that might go unnoticed by their owners.
Unfortunately, Natalie is aware that not all groomers share her dedication to their craft. “There’s a real need for more regulation in this industry,” she says. “Right now, anyone can call themselves a pet groomer. They just need to pay for a permit, and they’re in business. But without proper training, they can do more harm than good. I’ve seen cases where serious issues were masked or ignored, and it’s the pets who suffer.”
One of the most remarkable aspects of Natalie’s work is her commitment to helping pets that others might deem too difficult to handle. At Groovy Groomers, no animal is turned away, no matter how neglected or abused they might be. Natalie has made it her mission to work with pets that have been rescued from horrific situations, animals that have known nothing but fear and pain.
“Some of these animals come in so matted, so filthy, you can barely see their eyes,” Natalie says, her voice tinged with both sadness and determination. “But I see past that. I see the animal that just wants to feel safe, to be loved. And if I can help them take that first step towards a better life, then I’ve done my job.”
Her work with these animals isn’t just about grooming—it’s about rehabilitation. Natalie spends extra time with them, gently gaining their trust, making sure they feel comfortable before she begins. It’s a process that requires immense patience, but for Natalie, the reward is worth it.
“You can see the transformation,” she says. “Not just in how they look, but in how they carry themselves. They walk out of here with their heads a little higher, their tails wagging a little more. That’s what keeps me going.”
Behind the scenes at Groovy Groomers, Natalie’s mother, Renay, plays an integral role in the business. From the very beginning, Renay has been by her daughter’s side, helping with everything from bathing the dogs to deep-cleaning the salon during the busiest times.
“My mom is amazing,” Natalie says with a smile. “She’s always there when I need her, whether it’s ordering products, helping with the animals, or just making sure everything is spotless. I couldn’t do this without her.”
Renay’s involvement adds a personal touch to Groovy Groomers, making it feel less like a business and more like a family. It’s this warmth and genuine care that keeps clients coming back, knowing that their pets are in the best hands.
For those considering a career in pet grooming, Natalie has some sage advice. “Don’t rush it,” she says. “This isn’t a job you can do well if you’re impatient. Take the time to learn the techniques, to really understand the animals you’re working with. Challenge yourself every day to get better, and always put the well-being of the pet first.”
In a world where pet grooming is often seen as just another service, Natalie Shull and Groovy Groomers stand out as a shining example of what this profession can and should be. With her deep passion for animals, her commitment to excellence, and her artistic flair, Natalie has turned Groovy Groomers into a place where pets are not only groomed but also cherished.
As she continues to advocate for better regulation in the industry and work with animals in need, Natalie’s influence is sure to grow. But no matter how big Groovy Groomers becomes, one thing is certain: it will always be a place where pets are treated with the love and care they deserve, and where grooming is not just a service, but a form of art.
Connect with Natalie and the Grooy Groomers on Facebook !!
(607)-747-7297 Natalie @ Groovy Groomer
Johanna Elattar is a Hornell NY based writer who loves both great community stories and a good ghost story! You can connect with her anytime, hauntedhill@yandex.com.
