Meet Amber

We had the good fortune of connecting with Amber and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amber, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I’m originally from Dallas, Texas. As a child, I was deeply artistic and emotionally attuned, yet I quickly had to learn how to navigate a world that could be harsh and unforgiving. Art and animals became my sanctuary. Though I once dreamed of becoming a veterinary scientist, I never imagined that animal grooming would become such an important part of my story. Through years of surviving domestic violence, homelessness, and parental alienation, animals grounded me and healed me in ways nothing else could.

I’ve always had a natural connection with animals, often bringing home strays and caring for them like the neighborhood vet tech. That bond became my strength, especially as I faced trauma and mental health challenges. Animals didn’t just comfort me they saved my life. And because of them, I’m still here.

I’m turning that journey into purpose. I’m building Cultivating Herstory, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering women who’ve experienced trauma by creating healing spaces rooted in animal therapy, art, and community care. My mission is to be a voice for the unseen to represent women who look like me, share my struggles, and are searching for transformation. I believe our pain can be reshaped into a powerful legacy, and I’m committed to showing how resilience, creativity, and the love of animals can help us rewrite our stories.

What should our readers know about your business?
My business journey is both deeply personal and profoundly purposeful. Every animal I groom receives care, patience, and intention but for me, grooming is more than just a job. It’s healing work. It’s an extension of the lifelong bond I’ve shared with animals who have, time and again, saved me during some of the most difficult seasons of my life.

What sets me apart is the heart behind the clippers. I don’t just groom animals I connect with them. I understand trauma, not only in people but in animals too. Many of the pets I work with come from rescues or have experienced fear, neglect, or instability. I approach each one with empathy, intuition, and a calming energy, creating a stress-free and restorative experience. That trauma-informed care is what makes my services truly unique.

In addition to my grooming work, I’m building Cultivating Herstory, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering women who have survived trauma through animal-assisted healing, creative expression, and holistic support. Working at Paw Spaw Services has sharpened my technical skills, but more importantly, it has affirmed what I’ve always known: animals can be powerful vessels of peace, trust, and transformation for both humans and themselves.

Reaching this point hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced and overcome homelessness, domestic violence, and parental alienation. Grooming wasn’t part of my original plan I once dreamed of studying veterinary science. But life redirected me in a way I now know was divine. Every hardship, every setback, has laid a brick in the foundation of something meaningful and lasting.

What I want the world to know is this: my story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the incredible healing power of animals. My brand is rooted in authenticity, service, and a deep desire to uplift women who’ve been silenced, forgotten, or underestimated. Whether it’s through Paw Spaw Services, Cultivating Herstory, or my continued work in the community, I’m here to show that pain can become purpose and purpose can become powerful impact.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend came to visit Dallas, I’d make sure the trip was centered around healing, joy, and good vibes.

We’d kick things off with dinner at Jamaican Cook Shop and unwind at a cozy Airbnb in the heart of Bishop Arts. Throughout the week, we’d stroll through the Dallas Arboretum, soak up inspiration at the Black Girl Magic Museum, and explore creativity at the Dallas Black Art Museum.

I’d take them behind the scenes of my work and stop by a local animal rescue because animals are such a meaningful part of my journey. We’d sip on boba tea, browse the unique shops in Bishop Arts, and walk around White Rock Lake for some peaceful reflection. One night, we’d get dressed up and either hit the dance floor or enjoy live music and vibes at Soho Hookah Lounge.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to dedicate this shoutout to my late cousin, Asha Creary, who recently passed away unexpectedly. Asha was more than family she was a guiding light, a fierce supporter, and a true force for good. As the founder of Crave Counseling, she dedicated her life to helping others heal, grow, and walk in their purpose. Her passion, wisdom, and heart continue to inspire me every day.

One of Asha’s favorite sayings was, “I always live by the motto: be a blessing to everyone you come in contact with.” She didn’t just say it she lived it. Her presence was a blessing in my life, especially during moments when I felt lost or overwhelmed.

Since her passing, there have been times when I’ve felt unsure of how to keep going. But I know she would want me to continue to keep rising, keep building, and keep being a blessing to others, just as she was to me. This journey is harder without her, but I carry her love, her legacy, and her light with me every step of the way. This is for her, and because of her.

Website: https://www.pawspawservices.biz/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pawspawservices/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amaynardbrooks/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PawSpawServices/

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@pawspawservices

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@pawspawservices