April's Journey: Animal Lover to Dog Groomer

April's love for animals started early—with shoebox mice and one memorable rabbit incident. As an adult, that love continued with some unusual companions, including Freddie the prairie dog and Harold, a rabbit with a taste for phonebooks. April once dreamed of becoming a veterinarian, but after Harold's passing, her path took a different direction.

Back in Nashville, April rescued Roy, a spaniel who became her companion for kayaking, hiking and, eventually, grooming practice. Inspired by Roy and her lifelong love of animals, April attended pet grooming school at the International Academy of Pet Design in Atlanta. Roy wasn't always enthusiastic about his new role as practice dog, but he helped April begin the career that would become Hair of the Dog.

In 2005, April opened Hair of the Dog in Hendersonville, with Roy serving as its much-loved mascot. More than 20 years later, April continues to provide personalized, one-on-one grooming while keeping her skills and professional knowledge current.

April still serves many longtime Hendersonville clients and now welcomes new clients primarily in Old Hickory, Hermitage, Donelson and Mt. Juliet. Her mobile salon allows her to give each dog individual attention in a quieter, cage-free environment without the distractions of a busy grooming shop.