BIZ BUZZ 9.19.2012

Palm Coast Observer
Business

+Salon pampers cats and dogs, supports abandoned animals
Sharon Canales has always wanted to work with animals. She grew up on a farm in Connecticut, so she's always been around animals; it's natural for her, she says. Originally, she wanted to be a vet, but instead, she decided to attend the Connecticut School of Grooming.

Now, 30 years later, she's the happy owner of Dog's Choice Grooming Salon, a hands-on pet grooming service that finds clients in both dogs and cats.

"Everybody spoils their babies," Canales said. "I'm just the one who gets to spoil them."

All washing and drying are done by hand. Some salons, Canales said, leave animals in cages with dryers blowing on them, but that can cause overheating.

"I also do a bit of adoption on the side," Canales said. "People know I can help get the word out about animals who need homes."

And some of the animals find homes at her own home or business. When she had too many rescued pets at home, she brought two abandoned cats to live in her office.

"I can't help it," she said. "I love animals, and I have to help them. It's what I do."

+St. Augustine Money Makers of BNI names member of the year
The St. Augustine Money Makers Chapter of Business Networking International has named health insurance executive Jack Boyd as member of the year. Boyd, a Palm Coast resident, is a charter member and former president. As member of the year, Boyd will be among those considered for regional member of the year.

+Intracoastal Bank’s partner, Allpoint, expands surcharge-free network
Intracoastal Bank has partnered with Allpoint Surcharge-Free Network for ATM withdrawals. This gives banking customers access to their money through more than 38,000 ATMs in the U.S. without a surcharge.

+Palm Coast Elks team with Edward Jones for annual school-supplies drive
Buddy Taylor Middle School teacher Daryl Dolderer and class representative Storm Bauder received three large boxes of school supplies from Jamie Woyton and Marjie Lettsome, of Edward Jones, who addressed the class to tell them about their neighbors who supported them in the drive. To contact the Palm Coast Elks, call 446-2709.