Steven Land

Steven comes to City Dog with 12 years grooming experience. Steven began working with dogs at the age of 11 by showing and grooming his Aunt’s Australian Shepherds. He competed in junior handling for several years and was the 2nd male to win Best Junior Handler of the year. At age 13, he started working with professional handlers and groomers where he traveled the country grooming and showing. He worked with several handlers and learned how to groom all different breeds according to recognized grooming standards. He has conducted seminars for youths on junior competing and also held classes where he gave instruction in beginner obedience. Steven grooms both Dogs & Cats and has worked in both small independent shops and large chain stores. Most recently he worked for a major pet store chain for 3 years where he was on the team that ran the grooming schools in both Los Angeles and San Diego Counties. He has 3 cats Conchita, Cabezon and Taquito all rescues from Mexico, and he fosters kittens for the Humane Society.

Melanie Sponselee

Having worked as a Veterinary Tech Assistant, a Kennel Technician, a Dog Boarding and Day Care Specialist and a Groomer’s Assistant, Melanie joined the City Dog team bringing years of experience and overall knowledge about pet care, maintenance and health. While working for Kearny Mesa Veterinary, Melanie assisted with veterinary procedures and surgeries and acquired knowledge on pet nutrition, skin issues and promoting overall pet health. From working in Dog Boarding and Care she gained skills in animal handling, obedience and training.
Melanie started her career in dog grooming by working as a groomer’s assistant and learning the correct procedures for prepping, washing, drying and brushing dogs. She furthered her grooming techniques by working with Steven where he trained her in clipping and scissoring. After several months under his supervision, Melanie has matured to become a talented and exceptional groomer. Her wide ranging experience working with pets contributes to her abilities as a groomer. She knows how to make the grooming experience for her dog and cat clients non-stressful and enjoyable while achieving the perfect look.
Melanie’s love and affection for animals spans from growing up with dogs, cat, horses and all types of pets to her current family member Zero, a 9 year old greyhound and is apparent from her volunteer work in equestrian therapy with disabled children. Melanie considers working with animals her “calling in life.”