Announcing Larissa Kalinina Nash System Elite Training Team 

 

Meet Larissa Kalinina, a passionate and accomplished pet stylist who embarked on her grooming journey in 2003. Quickly diving into the world of competitive grooming, Larissa found herself in a transformative experience—a new world, a new life.

 

Competing opened doors to new friendships, valuable exchanges with colleagues, and a wealth of skills and experiences. Larissa's introduction to the Model Dog World was greatly influenced by the inspiring Vivian Nash, who motivated her to venture into grooming model dogs.

 

Previously engaged in competitions with live dogs, Larissa discovered her love for the Rescue Me Competition. For her, it presented a real opportunity to showcase her skills and talent. While others may find competing with perfect purebred champions easier, Larissa appreciates the everyday challenge of grooming not-so-perfect-looking pets.

 

Larissa shares her journey through Model Dog competitions, having competed in the USA, South Korea, Canada, Puerto Rico, and Spain. Her numerous victories include being named the Best Overall Groomer by the Korean Kennel Club in 2023, Nash Academy's 2021 Competitor of the Year, and the IJA's 2022 Show and Tell Champion.

 

Her accolades continue with winning Best in Show Model Dog in Columbus, Ohio, in 2022 and Best in Class Creative in Pittsburgh in 2021. Recognitions from VWGC include the 2021 Model Dog Creative Competitor of the Year. Larissa's involvement with IJA (International Judges Association) earned her several awards, such as the 2019 Best in Show Model Dog (Pure Breed and Creative) and the 2018 Best in Show Model Dog Creative.

 

For Larissa, Model Dog competitions serve as a way for groomers to stay in the competition even if they don't have live dogs to compete with. Balancing her hobby, job, and competitive spirit, Larissa experiences the thrill of the red carpet like a Hollywood Diva during competitions.

 

Acknowledging the pioneering role of IJA and Nash Academy in Model Dog grooming in North America, Larissa continues to inspire and excel in the competitive grooming arena.