Meet Paolina Anderson

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

Hi Paolina, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
My business Laguna Pet Spa creates a meaningful social impact by directly supporting animal welfare worldwide. A percentage of our proceeds goes to Global United Foundation, a nonprofit I founded 10 years ago. Through this foundation, I have hosted free pet clinics in Puerto Rico, Colombia, Mexico, and the U.S., ensuring that animals in underserved communities receive essential care.

Our mission extends beyond immediate aid by educating pet owners on safety, health, and first aid, empowering communities to better care for their animals. Additionally, our foundation provides disaster relief assistance and collaborates with other organizations to support emergency pet care globally.

By combining business success with philanthropy, I not only improve pet well-being but also strengthen communities through education and compassionate action.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I started my journey as a business owner at just 23 years old, purchasing a pet grooming business with no prior experience in grooming or running a company. Despite the uncertainty, I was inspired by my father, who was a business owner himself, and I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit. The road was anything but easy—I made countless mistakes and struggled to find my footing. It took nearly a decade before I truly felt confident as an entrepreneur.

Now, with over 20 years of experience in the pet industry, I have dedicated my life to providing exceptional care for pets and elevating industry standards. I serve as the Education Chair for the California Professional Pet Groomers Association (CPPGA) and was honored to write and translate their Safety and Sanitation guidelines into Spanish, making these essential resources more accessible to a broader community. Bringing bilingual education into my business has helped me and my company grow tremendously.

In addition to grooming, I am a certified Pet CPR and First Aid instructor, passionate about educating pet parents and professionals on how to keep their pets safe and healthy. I also specialize in senior dog care, offering customized care plans to ensure elderly pets receive the support and attention they deserve.

I am proud to call myself the owner/leader of Laguna Pet Spa, which was recognized as Business of the Year in Laguna Hills—a testament to my team’s dedication and hard work. More than anything, I am deeply committed to making a positive impact in the world of pet care. My journey has taught me patience, resilience, and the importance of continuous learning. I want the world to know that no matter how many obstacles you face, with passion and perseverance, you can create something truly meaningful

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would put together the perfect mix of food, nature, and animals, making it an unforgettable experience

Day 1 – LA Views & Local Eats
Start the day with a delicious bite at the Farmers Market on 3rd & Fairfax, a historic spot with a variety of food vendors.

After eating, head up to the Griffith Observatory for breathtaking panoramic views of Downtown LA and beyond. Perfect for photos and taking in the city’s beauty.

Day 2 – Orange County Vibes
Take a trip to Orange County and stop by my business to hang out with some adorable dogs—because no trip is complete without some furry friends!

Grab a snack and a shake at The Orange Inn on Thalia Street, a small local gem with amazing, small bites.

Stroll through Laguna Beach, soaking in the coastal scenery, visiting art galleries, or just relaxing by the ocean.

Day 3 – San Diego Adventure
Drive down to La Jolla for a scenic walk along the coast, where you can watch sea lions and pelicans up close.

Head to Little Italy in Downtown San Diego for an incredible meal at Filippi’s, a classic Italian spot.

End the trip with some authentic gelato from one of the many great spots in Little Italy— every great trip deserves a sweet ending!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I owe so much of my journey to the unwavering support of my family. My mother, who passed away a few years ago after bravely battling cancer for six years, was my greatest inspiration. Despite her pain, she never stopped believing in me. One of her last words to me was, “You can do anything, and anything you do will be successful—never forget that.” Her strength, resilience, and love continue to guide me every day.

I also want to recognize my mentor and friend, Ryan Matthews, a renowned dog trainer at World of Dog Training. His mentorship in business, mindset, and personal growth has been invaluable. His guidance has not only helped shape my career but has also reinforced the importance of perseverance and passion in everything I do. His support is truly priceless, and I’m grateful to have him in my corner.

Website: https://www.lagunapetspa.com

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

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

Other: https://www.globalunitedfoundation.org