ABOUT THE INSTRUCTORS
Colin Taylor, a standout figure in the world of dog grooming, embarked on his journey by relocating from the UK to Hong Kong as a young groomer. He honed his skills in Asia and later settled in the United States, dedicating two decades to establishing himself as a highly decorated grooming contestant.
Among his accolades are titles such as ‘Intergroom’s International Groomer of the Year’ and a triumph in the ‘World Cup Grooming Games.’ His impressive collection also includes numerous ‘Best in Show’ and ‘Best All Around Groomer’ awards from major contests throughout the US. Colin was a longstanding member of Groom Team USA and gained recognition with multiple appearances on the cover of Groomer to Groomer magazine, along with numerous television interviews.
Upon returning to the UK, Colin broadened his horizons. He authored the renowned book, ‘What Would Colin Do? 101 Situations and Solutions for the Everyday Dog Groomer,’ and founded the ‘Colin Taylor Academy.’ These endeavors have benefited countless groomers, enhancing their skills and instilling greater compassion in their careers. Colin also initiated and manages England’s largest and most esteemed grooming events, MastergroomUK, where his profound passion for the industry shines through, driving remarkable excitement and progression. Colin’s passion for quality tools also led him to create a Colin Taylor Products line of products including combs, shears, brushes, sprays, and more.
Colin’s journey continues as he travels worldwide, offering seminars and serving as a judge at prominent grooming conferences. His unwavering commitment to excellence aligns seamlessly with his vibrant sense of humor and genuine camaraderie with fellow groomers. Notably, Colin took on the role of judge for ‘Pooch Perfect Australia’ and ‘Pooch Perfect UK,’ relishing the opportunity to step outside his comfort zone.
Irina “Pina” Pinkusevich realized her passion as a Pet Stylist while working part-time as a bather after immigrating from The Ukraine in 1989. In the earlier part of her career she worked as a Pet Stylist at some of the most high-end grooming salons in New York. Pina entered the world of Competitive Grooming in 2006 and went on to win countless awards including Best In Show, Best All Around Groomer, the Lynne Carver Award for the most Best All Around Groomer wins (twice), and the Liz Paul Memorial Award for the most Best in Show wins. Other notable wins were the Winner’s Circle Jackpot 2011 and The World Dog Show’s World Champion Award. Pina was also a member of GroomTeam USA from 2008 through 2013 and competed in the World Championships for the United States in 2009, 2011, and 2013 helping the U.S. team bring home a Silver & two Golds.
Along with being a world-renowned groomer, Pina is also a national & international judge, instructor, and speaker. She was awarded the Cardinal Crystal Award for Judge of the Year as well as the Barkleigh Honors Award for Up & Coming Speaker of the Year in 2014. Pina is a National Certified Master Groomer (NCMG) with the National Dog Groomers of America and is also a Certifier for their company. In 2021, she launched her company Niira to bring high quality affordable grooming tools to the industry.
Dedicated to improving the industry, Pina offers dog grooming education through private lessons in and around Ft. Lauderdale, FL and also travels the world to instruct at various in-person conferences and seminars as well as online webinars and is an integral part of Artero’s Jornadas events.
Pina is also associated with Kiyara Poodles, a top breeder of miniature poodles in the United States owned by Michael Lamb & Bill Jividen Jr. She is also associated with Kerryfield Kennels, top breeders of Kerry Blue Terriers owned by Virginia Harding and Krizma Kennels owned by Lois Grier. With these kennels, Irina has bred & co-owned numerous champion Poodles & Kerry Blue Terriers.
Wendy Leazer –
Wonderful course
Jessica VanHorn –
Thank you for all the information! Taught me some things i didn’t know and i love you guys!
Liffey Kelly –
Really informative, will be taking lots of tips with me
Carla Janssen –
Love Pina and Colin. Now that I am going the right way, just need to practice more
Jessica Melarkey –
Some great tips!
Kacey Yount –
A lot of good information on combing and scissoring!
Deborah Riche –
loved it. Colin and Pina are amazing at giving you needed info that will aid in your grooming.
Jamie Mentzer –
Excellent info and entertaining. Loved it!
Diana Chudlia –
Absolutely 👌🏻💯 you can find very good tips for improve your work
Susan Coliton –
lots. of. good. tips