Rena Grundfast
Santa Monica,CA
Summary
Driven and dynamic, with a proven track record from West LA Animal Shelter to LA Sports Massage, excels in fostering client relationships and enhancing animal well-being. Leveraging exceptional communication and problem-solving skills, significantly improved client satisfaction and animal socialization, embodying a blend of empathetic understanding and strategic intervention.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Volunteer
West LA Animal Shelter
04.2024 - Current
- Keep animals healthy and socialized by providing regular exercise and walks.
- Increase animal socialization by engaging in regular playtime sessions with dogs at the shelter.
- Ensure a safe environment for volunteers by following established protocols regarding animal handling and safety measures.
- Assist with adoption process by providing information about animals to potential adopters.
- Maintain detailed records of animal care and feeding schedules to track animal care and history.
Canine Behaviorist Apprentice
Westside K9s
12.2023 - Current
- Develop strong rapport with clients, establishing trust and promoting engagement in therapeutic activities.
- Collaborate with team members to ensure comprehensive treatment for clients'' behavioral needs.
- Conduct functional behavior assessments to identify the function of challenging behaviors and inform intervention strategies.
- Develop individualized behavior plans for clients, resulting in increased adaptive skills and reduced maladaptive behaviors.
- Ensure ethical and professional conduct in all aspects of practice, maintaining compliance with industry standards and guidelines.
Owner
Tails On The Trails
01.2013 - Current
- Participate in business events, conferences and trade shows to promote products and network with business owners and prospective clients.
- Interact well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
- Cultivate and strengthen lasting client relationships using strong issue resolution and dynamic communication skills.
- Establish a loyal customer base by providing personalized attention, addressing concerns promptly, and exceeding expectations.
Neuromuscular Massage Therapist
LA Sports Massage
10.2022 - 08.2023
- Provided safe, effective, and appropriate massage therapy techniques during customer appointments.
- Enhanced client relaxation and pain management by utilizing a variety of massage techniques tailored to individual needs.
- Utilized deep tissue, Swedish and myofascial massage therapy techniques to provide options to customers.
- Achieved high levels of customer satisfaction with empathetic listening skills and clear communication about treatment plans.
- Maintained accurate client records for effective treatment planning and progress tracking.
- Performed detailed assessments to identify areas of tension or discomfort, leading to more effective treatments.
- Assisted clients in understanding benefits of massage therapy to provided education on self-care techniques.
- Expanded knowledge of various modalities through continuing education courses, enhancing skillset as a therapist.
- Improved client mobility with targeted therapeutic massage, addressing specific musculoskeletal issues.
- Increased repeat client bookings by delivering exceptional customer service and follow-up care advice.
- Assessed guest needs and identified muscle issues, medical conditions, and contraindications before beginning session.
- Analyzed postural assessments and range of motion.
- Advised clients on lifestyle changes to improve alignment, posture, and gait for better long-term wellness.
- Established and implemented massage protocols and procedures.
- Developed and maintained positive relationships with clients through professional communication and follow-up to increase satisfactions and build rapport.
Dog Handler and Activity Leader
Fit Dog Sports Club
07.2015 - 06.2016
- Managed up to 10 dogs of varying breeds and sizes, providing attentive care.
- Interpreted body language to keep dogs engaged in fun activities and de-escalated potential cases of aggression.
- Increased dog training success rates by utilizing positive reinforcement techniques and maintaining consistency in commands.
- Improved dogs' socialization skills with consistent exposure to new people and animals, reducing anxiety and potential aggression.
- Kept animals stimulated with variety of enrichment activities.
- Demonstrated adaptability in working with different breeds of dogs ranging from small toy breeds to large working breeds effectively understanding their specific needs.
- Provided a safe environment for dogs by conducting thorough evaluations of each animal''s temperament and behavior before handling them.
Brand Ambassador
Solid Gold Pet Food
07.2015 - 06.2016
- Increased positive word-of-mouth referrals through genuine, personalized customer interactions and excellent product knowledge.
- Ensured accurate representation of the brand by maintaining consistent messaging and visuals across all promotional materials and presentations.
- Enhanced brand recognition by executing promotional events and engaging customers with product demonstrations.
- Boosted sales through effective collaboration with store staff to promote products in high-traffic areas.
Dog Grooming Assistant
Petco
05.2011 - 05.2012
- Enhanced overall appearance of dogs by providing regular baths, brushing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing services.
- Maintained a safe and hygienic work environment, ensuring the well-being of both pets and staff members.
- Worked collaboratively with team members to ensure efficient scheduling and smooth daily operations within the salon.
- Assisted head groomer with advanced procedures such as de-matting fur or treating skin conditions under veterinary supervision.
Substitute Teacher
Flowing Wells Unified School District 8
10.2007 - 05.2009
- Followed classroom plans left by class teacher to continue student education and reinforce core concepts.
- Upheld classroom routines to support student environments and maintain consistent schedules.
- Developed strong rapport with students through consistent encouragement and support, fostering a positive learning atmosphere conducive to academic growth.
- Repeatedly requested as substitute teacher by teachers based on excellent past referrals and trusted performance.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Anthropology
American University
Washington, DC12.1998
Skills
Excellent Communication
Emotional awareness
Problem-Solving
Interpersonal Skills
Timeline
Volunteer
West LA Animal Shelter
04.2024 - Current
Canine Behaviorist Apprentice
Westside K9s
12.2023 - Current
Neuromuscular Massage Therapist
LA Sports Massage
10.2022 - 08.2023
Dog Handler and Activity Leader
Fit Dog Sports Club
07.2015 - 06.2016
Brand Ambassador
Solid Gold Pet Food
07.2015 - 06.2016
Owner
Tails On The Trails
01.2013 - Current
Dog Grooming Assistant
Petco
05.2011 - 05.2012
Substitute Teacher
Flowing Wells Unified School District 8
10.2007 - 05.2009
Bachelor of Arts - Anthropology
American University
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