Meet Valerie Milles, Owner of Sit & Stay

Most pet owners know that their fuzzy friends are very much part of the family and even get enviable special treatment. Whether it's a Great Dane trying to squeeze into bed to snuggle or a Yorkie curled up in your oversized handbag for the day, man's best friend is much like child and needs to be brushed, scrubbed, clipped and primped...by somebody else. That somebody is Valerie Milles.

A beautiful Golden Retriever is at my heels as soon as I enter , eager to play as her owner talks to Milles and catches the excitable canine before she heads for the door. 

North Branford Patch: What do you enjoy most doing business in North Branford?

Valerie Milles: I love the people out here. I've never worked in a place where the people are nicer. 

North Branford Patch: What makes your business unique?

Milles: My business, well, I'm the only dog groomer in a five-mile radius. 

North Branford Patch: What brought you into this business?

Milles: About eight years ago I was working at a phone company and hated it, and do my son said, 'Why don't you do something with dogs?' I ended up going to dog grooming school and here I am!

North Branford Patch: What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Milles: Oh I take care of my father, I make sure he's getting his exercise, I go to the gym, too, and church. 

North Branford Patch: What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Milles: The dogs! I could just play with them and brush them all day long. I used to have stuffed dogs when I was about eight and I'd brush and groom them to put them out for a little show. I got involved with 4H when I was around 10 as well. The dogs are great, they're so therapeutic. 

North Branford Patch: What do you want your customers to know about your business?

Milles: The dogs are always groomed by the same person–me. No dog gets left on a table alone, I treat them like a baby on a changing table. It is a loving and caring atmosphere, I am very patient and I listen to my customers and try to give them exactly when they want for their pet. 

Valerie also gives out tips and advice for pet hair, fur and skin. Sit & Stay Dog Grooming has been open in Northford for four years and is located at 1387 Middletown Ave. Valerie can be reached at 203-484-7297.