Bunny getting a clip
Katrina Thissen has a long history of grooming cats and dogs across the world, from Nairobi, Kenya, to Fargo, ND and now at her Gentle Hands Grooming facility in Saluda. Many clients come to her from Tryon, Laurel Park, Asheville and surrounding areas. “I tend to present a stable, calm energy and work with confidence but great respect towards each animal,” she says. “It is important to me to maintain the integrity of the animals as often they have triggers from trauma that are no fault of their own.”
Thissen prides herself on her ability to work with animals who are challenging. “I am able to welcome in cats and dogs who need special attention or just a calmer environment,” she says. “I love helping an animal get through an uncomfortable situation as smoothly as possible.”
She grooms both cats and dogs, but offers special days—currently Wednesdays each week—for cats only so the environment is more soothing. This year, she is integrating a certification from the National Cat Groomers Institute into her business. “I am always open to learning and picking up ways to smooth and ease the process for the kitties,” she says. Gentle Hands Grooming offers a variety of services from just a simple nail trim, to a bath and comb-out, to a full clip of different styles. “Adding on belly shaves to a bath are great for the summer to help keep brushing upkeep at home to a minimum,” she says. “I am happy to discuss any feline’s or owner’s needs to make it work and welcome any breed from Maine Coons to Persians to Domestic Short Hairs.”
Thissen also uses natural shampoo and avoids harsh chemicals in her space to keep her animal clients safe. “In the end,” she says, “I know that after getting their coat clean and trimmed, the cat feels so much better and that makes me happy.”
Gentle Hands Grooming is located at 156 US 176, Saluda. For more information, visit Facebook.com/GentleHandsGrooming or call 828.749.3280.
