My Story

The Birth of My Darling Sirius

It all began when I was six years old, with my very first poodle — an apricot miniature named Zlata. She was far more than a dog. She was my childhood companion, my first teacher, and the beginning of a lifelong devotion.

From the very start, I cared for her coat with intention and patience. Every second day, I brushed her carefully to keep her coat rich, fluffy, and free of tangles. At that time, clippers were not available to me, so I learned to shape her feet and face entirely by hand, using scissors. Through Zlata, I learned patience, precision, and respect for the process.

A young girl lying on her back hugging a poodle dog, both looking at the camera, on a patterned blanket.
A fluffy light-colored dog, likely a golden retriever or similar breed, sitting in front of a decorated Christmas tree with colorful ornaments. The dog is looking directly at the camera.
Child with short hair smiling and sitting next to a poodle with a red bow on its head, in a cozy indoor setting.
A young girl hugging a curly-haired dog on a patterned couch.

Caring for her coat in this traditional, demanding way taught me discipline and an appreciation for quiet elegance. I discovered that true beauty is never rushed — it is revealed through time, consistency, and respect.

With Zlata, I also experienced my first lessons in responsible breeding. She had two litters — six and seven beautiful apricot puppies — and together we navigated the responsibilities of nurturing new life. These early experiences instilled in me a profound respect for the cycle of care and the devotion that poodles inspire.

As I grew older, my mother became my mentor and guiding force. She is a Canadian kennel breeder of champion poodles, and through her guidance I was introduced to advanced coat care and the refined art of canine presentation in the show ring.

My first true partner in the ring was Soldier Molly. Together, we learned harmony, precision, and professional discipline — foundations that continue to define my work today.

A woman with a high ponytail, dressed in black, kneeling on the floor petting a brown poodle at an indoor dog show or event.
Award-winning poodle at indoor dog show in Montreal.
A woman holding a small brown poodle in an indoor setting.
A brown poodle with a fluffy groomed coat is being groomed on a grooming table, with a person's hand touching its paw.

From childhood discovery to professional mastery, my journey has always been guided by patience, sensitivity, and deep respect for the dog. These experiences shaped me into a dog stylist and poodle coat specialist, and ultimately led me to create My Darling Sirius.

A small brown poodle with curly fur sitting on a beige textured couch.

The name My Darling Sirius carries a meaning deeply close to my heart. Sirius is the brightest star in the night sky and the main star of the Canis Major constellation. In Latin, Canis means dog. I chose this name as a symbol — a place where every dog is meant to shine, guided with care, respect, and light.

The salon is also inspired by my beloved red toy poodle, My Darling Sirius Alfie. Through him, and through every dog entrusted to my care, my lifelong passion continues to live on.