About Natalie

I am a passionate dog lover, educator, and lifelong learner. My journey in dog grooming began in 1995 after backpacking through Europe, where I was inspired by how wonderfully dogs were treated and groomed. I returned to Australia determined to make dog grooming my career, earning my Professional Dog Grooming certification from a prominent industry Master Groomer in Heidelberg, Victoria.

Since then, I’ve dedicated my career to bettering the industry. I opened Doggy Dooz Dog Grooming Salon in Seddon in 2000, which I have proudly owned and operated for over 24 years. In 2006, I established Dog Diversity Grooming School, with the mission of providing a positive and professional training experience for both students and animals.

In 2017, I co-created and founded igroomhub, pioneering online education for Australian dog groomers. As the CEO and Director of Dog Grooming Education at igroomhub and igroomschool, I remain driven by a passion to help groomers and dogs thrive.

My passion for this industry feels endless—I feel as though I’ve grown up with it. Dog grooming is still a young and evolving field, with incredible opportunities to grow in technical education, self-care for groomers, holistic grooming skills, and a deeper understanding of dogs. I believe the best judge of a groom is the dog itself, and my work has always been about making the grooming salon a happy and safe place for both dogs and groomers.

Through training, education, and collaboration, I strive to lead the charge in shaping an industry built on compassion, care, and skill. Dogs need us, owners need us, and we need each other to create a better future for dog grooming.

RESUME

Early Career & Background

• Started in Youth Work, creating programs and conferences for young people aged 15-21.

• Worked as a floor manager in a prominent Melbourne restaurant, overseeing staff and daily operations.

Dog Grooming Career & Business Ventures

• 1995: Began grooming after training at the Victorian School of Dog Grooming, gaining experience in pet shops, vet clinics, and hospitals.

• 2000: Opened Doggy Dooz Dog Grooming, a salon known for high standards and quality grooming.

• 2006: Founded Dog Diversity Grooming School, training hundreds of professional groomers.

• 2017: Co-founded igroomhub, bringing online education to Australian dog groomers.

• Current: Co-owner and Director of Education at igroomhub and igroomschool.

Awards & Industry Recognition

• 2024: Received the Individual Excellence in Pet Grooming Award from the Pet Industry Association of Australia (PIAA).

Teaching & Curriculum Development

• Has taught dog grooming at multiple institutions, including:

  • Centre of Adult Education (CAE)

  • Chisholm Institute of TAFE

  • Sunraysia Institute of TAFE Mildura

  • Blue Wheelers Franchise

  • Victoria University

  • Dog Diversity (current)

  • Various industry salons across Australia

• Contributed to developing the Certificate III in Companion Animal Services curriculum.

Industry Engagement & Events

• Active participant in:

  • Dog Lovers Show

  • Melbourne Show

  • Pet & Animal Expos

  • Local pet expos

• Attended training and expos through PIAA and other industry events.

Business Leadership & Expertise

• Previously owned Murphy’s Paw Dog Grooming Salon in Port Melbourne, successfully managing it for three years.

• Experienced in business management, customer care, marketing, project management, and staff training.

• Trained and mentored thousands of students, teaching both dog grooming techniques and business skills.

Industry Leadership & Influence

• Known for adapting to industry trends and fostering professional excellence.

• Recognized as a respected educator, mentor, and leader in the dog grooming industry.

Education