Occupation: I am a professional dog and cat groomer. I graduated from the New York School of Dog Grooming in Manhattan. While working in New York City, I groomed all sorts of breeds including standard poodles, lhasa apsus, cockers, shitsus, Bedlington terriers, Newfoundlands, and schnauzers. Those New Yorkers really love their dogs, just like Newtown people do.

How Long In Newtown: I came to Newtown in May of 2004 to work for Doctor Brian Silverlieb, veterinarian and owner of the Mount Pleasant Hospital for Animals on Route 6. I became his dog groomer when the previous groomer, Jen, moved away. It is a wonderful place to work, and I am loving it here. Originally, I am from Brazil where I speak Portuguese, but I am learning the language here fast. I first came to this country in 1997.

Family: My wife, Kathy, works at the Mount Pleasant Hospital for Animals as a technician.

Hobbies: I like computers, I like to go to the gym, and I like to hang out with my friends. I have a collection of little cars, and I like to dance the Samba. We go to dance clubs in New York City whenever we can.

Pets: I’ve always had animals in my life including a series of five cocker spaniels. Right now, my wife and I have a cat named Jonathan. We are both cat fanciers.

Favorite TV Show, Music: I watch CNN News, Animal Planet, and I enjoy the comedy Desperate Housewives. I also like to watch The Simpsons, and I especially liked the one episode where they went to Brazil. It was so funny. 

Organizations: I like to help people, and I am looking now for ways to do that here. For a long time, I helped take care of an elderly, disabled person, which was something that gave me great personal satisfaction.

Most Vivid Memory About Newtown: Main Street on Halloween night was amazing. My mother was here, and we went up and down the street enjoying all the costumes and the decorated houses. I’ve never seen anything like it in any town. The spider house was really special.  Another special memory from the short time I have been here is of a particular client with a lhasa apsu named Georgie Boy. They were so grateful and generous that they made me a needlepoint picture in appreciation. I will never forget it. But that is only one example of the kindness and affection for their dogs shown by people here in Newtown.

Favorite Vacation Spot: My favorite vacation spot is Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Personal Philosophy: Every day when I wake up in the morning, I look forward to learning something new. Whether it is speaking better English, wondering which dogs will come in, or reading about something new, I find that every day is different. Each animal has its own personality, and so far there have been no bites. Even though the owners sometimes tell me, “My dog hates men and I’m sure he won’t let you touch him,” I have never had any trouble.

Snapshot: Andre Balduino With Blake, The Sheltie