Hi everyone, I’m Janessa, but I usually go by Ness or Nessa. I have dreamed of working with animals since I was just a kid. Opening “Splash Zone” is a dream come true. When I am not pampering animals during the day, I love spending time with family and friends, going to concerts, and working on cars.

In this photo from left to right you’ll also find my fur children Sugar, Kevin, Teeth, and Dobby. At home, I also have one other pup, Molly, and two ferrets, Tank and Wolfie.

When I was asked what I wanted to be when I grew up I would proudly say I wanted to be a Veterinarian or a Tattoo Artist—two completely different careers, I know, it sounds crazy!

I started my journey working with animals in High School volunteering for a wild bird rescue. I then went off to college and began studying Animal Science. I had a lot of fun, but came to the realization that college just wasn’t right for me. When I returned home, I stumbled across an ad on “Indeed” for a dog groomer and I saw that as a sign. I had to follow my dream of working with animals.

I must’ve applied at every pet grooming shop in Santa Fe, but with Covid nearing its peak, no one was hiring. I was beginning to get discouraged. I decided to expand my search and drive up to Los Alamos and applied at a pet store. As I was on my way out of town I ended up on the wrong road due to construction and stumbled upon a pet salon hidden in a breezeway. I grabbed a copy of my resume and went right inside to drop it off.

I worked at the salon in Los Alamos for 4 1/2 years where I fell in love with pet grooming. I am now excited to be opening up my very own - “Splash Zone”. Having the chance to join my passion for animals with my love of art in one unique career is something I never thought I’d be able to achieve.

I’m ready to begin this new chapter and I can’t wait to meet your pets!