"Astrid is nationally known for the many dogs she has shown over the past 20 years"

-Seattle Times, 02/20/1996

Astrid Lawrence
 

Astrid has over 30 years experience with dog and cat grooming. She has bred and shown American Cocker Spaniels for over 30 years and is a member of the American Spaniel Club, Washington State Cocker Spaniel Club and the Bernese Mountain Dog Club or America, Inc. In addition to cockers, Astrid is a Professional Handler at AKC shows. She has shown American Cocker Spaniels, American Staffordshire Terriers, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Brittanys, Golden Retrievers, Springer Spaniels, Chinese Sharpei and many others. Astrid has had several top ranked dogs and attends national level shows including specialties and the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club show. Bill Gorodner and Lloyd Alton featured her in the book The World of the Cocker Spaniel.

I am pleased to have a well-qualified, professional and caring staff. I take pride that local veterinarians regularly refer their clients to us including those with special needs.

Breeder and Owner of nationally ranked dogs

Steve Lawrence
 

As a husband/wife team, Steve and Astrid manage the salon and groom. Steve has bred and shown American Staffordshire Terriers where he met Astrid. She has handled several dogs for Steve including "Gaston" who was nationally ranked in the top 10 and won Best of Breed at the prestigious Great Western Terrier Specialty. Steve is now working construction as an Ironworker and will be helping on a limited basis.

Amy Pierce
 

I've always had a passion for dogs, even at a young age. My grandmother used to say that she thought I was a dog in my previous life. *Laughs* I consider great grooming a form of art, and I strive to produce great grooms everyday. In October of 2006 I bought my first show dog. A beautiful black Afghan Hound. Elmo's Tribal Island Perfection - or "Zephyr" as he's known around the shop and my house is the perfect dog. I also plan to compete with him in Agility, Lure Coursing and Competitive Obedience. In December of 2007, I became certified in the Sporting Group (Cockers, Retrievers, Setters Etc.) through IPG Inc. Right now I am studying for my next test in the series on my way to the Certified Master Groomer title. In my spare time I like to watch movies, eat Italian Food, and plan my wedding.

We are very pleased to have her sunny smile, positive attitude and grooming skills here at A Fur Affair.

Candace Omatsu
 

Candace has shown in AKC shows since she was 10 years old starting with Junior handling. Candace has worked at AKC shows for some of the top handlers in the country. She recently finished "Buzz" ( Ch. Sunhaven's Premier Package) a buff cocker spaniel from the puppy classes and he is now her house dog. "Buzz" was WA State Cocker Club's top winning ASCOB cocker for 2007. This talented lady works at the salon only on Saturdays. On her off time her hobbies include showing dogs, and movies. Her favorite foods are Pasta and Mexican.

Kerry Edinger
 

I began competing with dogs in 4H when I was 11 years old and jumped in with both feet. Within two yeras, I began competing in AKC events starting with obedience and junior showmanship. I branched out and began competing in Conformation and Agility. From 2000 to 2005, I took a break from competing and went to college. I graduated from Oregon State University with a BS in Exercise and Sport Science and began my graduate work at University of Idaho. I then realized that it wasn't for me and came back to my first love...dogs. I have handled many breeds mostly from the Sporting, Herding and Working groups. My family selectively breeds Weimaraners and Labradors, and we will soon be adding a Staffordshire Bull Terrier to the mix. I am always known to be showing at least one English Setter. I am currently showing a young Belgian Malinois, Ch. Carousel's Ryde the Wild Waves. At the young age of 14 months, Ryder is now the #4 Belgian Malinois in all rankings. I have recently become interested in field events, so when I am not at work or shows, I am usually out with the dogs training for field trial and hunt tests. I also enjoy action movies, swimming and going to dinner with friends. I have my IPG Sporting Certicication and I am studying to receive my Master Groomer Certification.

Rachael K.
 

My name is Rachael. I was born in California and have lived in Georgia, Texas and now in Washington. I have come to enjoy many activities the northwest has to offer. Together, my family and I enjoy biking, camping, hiking and snowboarding. I also enjoy listening to music, reading and of course shopping.

I have a love for animals. I especially have a soft place in my heart for dogs. I am currently a Guide Dog puppy raiser and I am raising my second puppy, Bradford. My first puppy, Maurice, became a Guide but has since been retired and became part of the new Canine Buddy Program at Guide Dogs for The Blind. Maurice now partnered with a 13 year old visually impaired “Buddy” that is learning through him how to prepare for one day having his own Guide Dog. I enjoy the challenges that I encounter day to day with puppy raising and also the reward of knowing I am going to help a person that is visually impaired some day. It has been a wonderful experience for me. My long term goal is to continue to follow my passion for animals and have a career working with them.