Our Groomers, Trainer & Customer Experience Manager SpotLight: Heather, Cam, Amber, Kai & Maria!
At Central Bark Poughkeepsie our groomers, trainers and experience managers rock the ouse!
Lets Talk Groomers: Central Bark’s Grooming Salon isn’t just about looking good — it’s about wagging tails, belly rubs, and pups who can’t wait to come back! Meet the dream team; “Heather, Cam, & Amber” our full time, 7 days a week, groomers! They’re the reason Hudson Valley’s dogs look (and feel) their absolute best when taking a stroll, and going for a ride with their pawents!
At Central Bark Poughkeepsie, we believe grooming is more than a haircut, bath, or a nail trim. It’s about care, comfort, and confidence for every pup. Our grooming team is known for their skill, patience, and love for dogs. Together, Heather, Cam, and Amber make sure every tail leaves wagging.
Heather: Stylist & Certified Groomer
Heather brings years of grooming expertise and a calm, gentle touch to every dog she works with. Known for her precision cuts and ability to ease even the most nervous pups, she specializes in breed-specific styles and creative trims. Her favorite part of the job? Watching a shy dog strut proudly after their fresh groom. Heather’s got the magic touch for pups who need a fresh cut or a total glow-up. She’s all about turning shaggy coats into show-stopping styles.
Cam: Groomer & Canine Comfort Specialist
We call her “The Calm & Cool One”. Dogs just get calm with Cam. Whether it’s a puppy’s first trim or a senior dog’s special care, Cam knows how to make every dog feel safe and spoiled, like they’re having a spa day. Cam has a knack for making grooming feel like a spa day (which it is for your pup at Central Bark Poughkeepsie). With a background in pet care and dog handling, Cam focuses on stress-free experiences, from puppy’s first groom to senior dog coat care. Clients love Cam’s attention to detail and the way every pup seems to instantly trust her.
Amber: Groomer & Styling Expert
Amber combines artistry and technique to create grooms that are both stylish and practical. She especially enjoys working with double-coated and long-haired breeds, ensuring every coat is healthy, shiny, and easy to manage. Amber’s warm personality and passion for pets make her a favorite among dogs and owners alike. Amber loves a good transformation! From silky blowouts to fluffy trims, she’s an expert in keeping coats healthy, shiny, and stylish. Plus, her happy energy makes every pup excited to hop on the grooming table.
Together, they’re the Hudson Valley’s go-to grooming crew; where every pup leaves looking fabulous and feeling loved. They deliver not just grooms, but genuine care for every furry family member.
Kai – Lead Dog Trainer Hello, my name is Kai, and I’m proud to be the Lead Dog Trainer here at Central Bark Poughkeepsie. I’ve been with Central Bark since we first opened our doors in Fall 2024, and every day I feel grateful to help dogs and their families grow together. My journey with dogs started at a young age with my family pups—Simba (a German Shepherd x Golden Retriever), Bongo (a lovable Beagle mix), and Tokyo (my first personal dog, a Dutch Shepherd x Belgian Malinois). These early experiences sparked my passion for canine behavior and training. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Canine Training and Management and spent two summers abroad helping train police and military working dogs. Today, I bring that knowledge and experience to Central Bark, where my goal is always to help dogs live happier, healthier lives while building stronger bonds with their owners. Outside of training, I enjoy baking and exploring my creative side through drawing, painting, and ceramics.
Meet Maria – Customer Experience Representative & Grooming Salon Manager Hi, I’m Maria! As the Customer Experience Representative and Grooming Salon Manager at Central Bark Poughkeepsie, I make it my mission to ensure both you and your pup feel welcome, cared for, and part of our family from the moment you walk through the door. My love for dogs began when I was 7 years old with my very first pup, Max the Westie. Training him as my own service dog inspired my career in grooming, daycare, and whole-dog care, which eventually brought me to Central Bark when we opened in Fall 2024. Today, I share my life with Monty, my playful Irish Setter (you may spot him prancing in the lobby!), and Pebbles, my adorable hedgehog. Caring for animals gives me a deep sense of purpose, and one day I hope to open my own rescue—and maybe even groom a Puli, a long-time dream of mine! When I’m not at Central Bark, you can usually find me at concerts, reading, or spending quality time with my pets.
