At the end of April, Elizabeth Holden, (GHS ’04), opened up her owner operated shop, SPAW, at the corner of New Portland Road and Main Street next to Mr. Bagel, to do what she loves best… caring for and grooming pets.

Although this business is her first, Holden comes with plenty of previous experience including grooming school. “I’ve been doing this for 12 years in Falmouth and had a great mentor who not only educated me about caring for animals but their owners and the business too,” she said.

The modern facility is clean and spacious and ready to handle animals of all shapes and sizes. It offers everything you would expect from a pet spa including not only grooming, teeth and nail care, but the business can even pamper your precious pet with a fancy cut and nail polish.

Holden has also been coached to watch for health indicators. “I am really looking closely at the pets in my care. I may be the first to notice a lump or bump or an issue in their ears. It’s more than them just looking good,” she shared.

Holden’s business model is to treat every animal like her own. She strives to create a relationship not just with the owner but every pet who comes through her door. Her passion and attention to detail is also shown in her company logo whose unique design is proudly displayed on her door. The top of the shears are a paw print and the silhouette of her mastiff Bryna, a fond furry friend for years.