Meet Our Team
Gia Petrella
Studio Owner & Advanced Styling Specialist
2023 Readers Choice Award Winner
When Gia was young, she was convinced she would run salon and spa’s just like her parents did… She loved the service industry and loved everything about hair. Turns out, she was missing the most important aspect of the industry, loving people (😂). But what she did love was animals. Showing dogs & horses, grooming them, caring for them, that was her passion. Working hard never felt like working hard when she was with her horses & dogs.
For over 6 years, Gia ran her grooming business from her home studio, but in 2023 she knew the time had come where she had outgrown the space she had. Enter her passion project, Northumberland Grooming Co. When building Northumberland Grooming Co, she knew she wanted to mimic the atmosphere that she so loved when she was was working in spas. She knew she wanted something different for pups than what was available, and so she created it! A different approach to dog grooming, a spa like approach. Treating pups like humans and putting their relaxation first while still providing high quality grooms. She has since gone on to compete in numerous dog competitions and she has completed her Advanced Canine Massage Therapy certification through the Royal Canadian College of Massage Therapy. Gia merges relaxation with contemporary grooming techniques for the ultimate grooming experience.
Fiona Boyd
Port Hope
Advanced Styling Specialist
​​
Fiona launched her grooming career in 2012 in Toronto. Her journey into grooming was built on a solid foundation of over 10 years working in the pet industry and several years working in dog training. This extensive background has given her a deep understanding of dog behavior, which she seamlessly integrates into her grooming practice.Fiona’s expertise shines through in her meticulous attention to detail and her ability to perform a wide range of grooming techniques, including hand scissoring and breed-standard grooming. Her creative eye and passion for her work have earned her a reputation as a skilled and compassionate groomer. Whether it’s a simple trim or a complex, breed-specific style, Fiona’s commitment to excellence ensures that every pet leaves looking their best.
Kayla Cowan
Port Hope
All Breed Specialist
Kayla brings a unique and well-rounded background to the grooming table, with deep roots in both training and dog care. She began her career as a kennel attendant and show dog handler, where she developed a strong foundation in breed structure, coat care, and canine behavior. Her passion for dogs quickly expanded into training, and she went on to found and run a successful service dog program for over three years.
Kayla also has hands-on experience in rescue and behavior rehabilitation, giving her a calm, intuitive approach to even the most sensitive or anxious pups. She specializes in Asian fusion, color and creative grooming, and is working toward competition-level grooming with a focus on extra-small breeds.
Above all, Kayla prioritizes building trust and creating positive, low-stress experiences for every dog in her care. Whether she’s working with a seasoned show dog or a nervous first-time visitor, her goal is always the same: a beautiful groom and a happy, confident pup.
Carol Benetin
Brighton & Port Hope
Handstrip & Cat Specialist
Carol brings over 30 years of professional grooming experience to the team, with a background in veterinary clinic settings throughout the Port Hope area. Her calm, confident handling and extensive knowledge make her especially well-suited for pets with special needs or sensitivities. She specializes in both cat grooming and hand stripping, offering skilled, detail-oriented care that’s hard to find. Carol is known for her gentle touch, consistent quality, and deep-rooted connection to the local community, many clients have trusted her with their pets for decades.
Emily Hockney
Port Hope & Brighton
All Breed Specialisst
Emily was an NGCo. apprentice before graduating to an All Breed Specialist. With a calm, easy-going demeanour and a naturally patient approach that helps dogs feel at ease in the grooming environment, Emily works thoughtfully and gently with a wide variety of coat types and personalities, always prioritizing comfort, safety, and positive experiences. Emily continues to refine her technical skills and deepen her understanding of professional grooming standards. With a strong commitment to learning and ongoing growth, she is constantly advancing her abilities while delivering consistent, quality care to every dog she works with.
Sarah Lepage
Port Hope
All-Breed & Cat Specialist
Sarah has been grooming in Northumberland since 2016 and is known for her calm presence, consistent results, and the care she brings to every appointment. She works with a wide range of breeds and coat types, but truly excels with pets that need a little extra patience. She specializes in grooming difficult or reactive dogs and has a natural ability to put nervous pets at ease. Sarah is also an experienced cat groomer, offering gentle, low-stress care for even the fussiest felines. Her clients trust her not just for her skill, but for the way she takes the time to understand each pet’s individual needs.
Kaitlyn Hocney
Brighton & Port Hope
Apprentice
Kaitlyn is our apprentice and she has quickly become known for her calm, easy-going nature and steady, and thoughtful approach to grooming. She is exceptionally patient and takes the time to ensure each dog feels comfortable and confident throughout their visit. Kaitlyn is learning to work with a wide range of coat types and temperaments, tailoring every groom to suit the individual dog in front of her. Passionate about her craft, she is constantly advancing her skills through continued education and hands-on experience, always striving to provide the highest level of care and finish for every client she works with.
