Su Lin Kennels was launched in 1993 by Ronald Wong, a professional show dog groomer and handler, and his wife Amy Wong.
They started the business on Oahu and moved to Hilo in 1997.
“We worked together as a great team until 2003 when Ronald passed away from cancer,” Amy told the Big Island Times. “I am proud to continue his successful legacy now for nearly 25 years in Hilo.”
During the early part of the COVID-19 pandemic last year, dog grooming services were deemed non-essential, so Su Lin Kennels had to close for six weeks.
“My pet sitting has dropped off considerably since March 2020, because people are unable to travel,” Amy said.
During the shutdown, she prepared her store so that would be ready to open when allowed.
“My determination was to make my shop as safe as I could for my customers, not because it was mandated,” Amy said.
As the pandemic diminishes, Amy is looking forward to 2021.
“I feel so blessed to continue a successful business with Su Lin Kennels,” she said. “ I have been able to get through these tough and challenging times of COVID. I am optimistic that 2021 will continue to get better and eventually we will be back to some kind of normalcy soon."
Su Lin Kennels has received many awards over the years.
“I pride myself in giving back to the community as much as I can,” Amy said. “I am a member of the Orchid Island Dog Fancier Club, the National Dog Grooming Association of America, the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and the Hawaii Island Chamber of Commerce. I also have a good working relationship with the veterinarians in town."
She is proud of the fact that the business has been operating successfully for so long.
“Being in business for almost 25 years in Hilo is a testament of my unique business,” she said. “My main concern is not only to care for the pets, but to care for the owners, too. I don’t run my business to make a bunch of money or to feed my ego. I consider myself an old-fashioned type of groomer who’s priority is to do my very best and to provide to everyone that enters my shop with care, honesty, trust and humility."