A Guide to the Best of Southern California : PETS : Big Fur

Valerie Weller works wonders on some real dogs. Although the Pasadena groomer specializes in the topiary styles favored by poodles, she can give even the most homely pet--”Never tell your dog how ugly he or she is, always say, ‘how pretty’ “--a handsome haircut. Prices in her shop, Dog’s Best Friend, start at about $25. In her 28 years as a groomer, Weller has earned several awards, including a first prize for creative styling at last year’s prestigious Intergroom competition. Using chalk and vegetable dye, she transformed her poodle, Jazz, into a multicolored clown. Is that a wig? Only his hairdresser knows for sure.

Valerie Weller, by appointment only; (818) 793-5938.