GCGA
Wayne Hartley Jr., RVT
American Chapter
Wayne's journey in the pet care industry began with a deep love for animals and a desire to understand them beyond the surface. As a Registered Veterinary Technologist and graduate of Fort Valley State University, he built a strong foundation in animal health, behaviour, and welfare. That knowledge continues to shape his approach to grooming, ensuring every pet is handled with patience, safety, intention, and respect for their individual needs.
Over the years, grooming has become much more than a profession for Wayne—it has become an art form. He views every groom as an opportunity to enhance a dog's confidence, personality, and natural beauty. His creative grooming experience spans a wide variety of breeds, coat types, temperaments, and styles, from breed-standard trims to personality cuts, colour work, shaping, pattern design, and expressive styling. For Wayne, creative grooming isn't about changing who a dog is; it's about highlighting their individuality while always putting their comfort and well-being first.
As the Founder and CEO of Happy Hearts Pet Care Services in Atlanta, Wayne has built a luxury grooming salon where creativity, education, and compassionate care come together. Every dog he grooms, every client relationship he builds, and every challenge he overcomes has strengthened his skills as both an artist and a professional. He believes growth comes through experience, continuous learning, and a commitment to raising the standard of excellence in the grooming industry.
Wayne sees creative grooming as a form of storytelling. The coat becomes the canvas, the dog's personality provides the inspiration, and the finished design is meant to bring joy while always respecting the animal beneath it. His passion extends beyond the grooming table through educating pet parents, mentoring fellow grooming professionals, and sharing knowledge that promotes both artistic expression and exceptional animal care.
His journey has been one of continuous growth, filled with lessons, challenges, achievements, and countless remarkable pets that have reinforced why he chose this profession. Wayne remains committed to learning, evolving, and pushing his creativity, always striving to lead with compassion, purpose, artistry, and heart.
Certifications
- RVTg
