DURANT, Okla. — 49th Street Pet Spa in Durant gives our furry friends makeovers, while also helping to set a stable foundation for the local workforce. 

Clippers and dog leashes have always been Stephanie Hunt's niche as a dog groomer for 16 years, but her mother's passing made it difficult for her to continue her career.

"Most high schools, teenagers, young adults work at fast food places; I didn't want to do that again," said Hunt. "I'm in my 40s, and I just wanted to go back to a career and be with something that I love to do."

Hunt reached out to the local Oklahoma Works American Job Center, where she was matched with 49th Street Pet Spa in Durant. 

"It depends on really what they're looking for," said Natasha Anderson, who manages the job center. "If they're looking to get back to work, of course we would build that resume with them go over their go over their qualifications and what their skills are, and create that resume for them, and find a position in an area that would best fit their skills."

The service is working to combat a rising unemployment rate in the Sooner State, which is currently 3.6 percent. 

"For Bryan County, the unemployment rate is 3.3, which is below the national average," said Anderson. "Our monthly door count is 350 a month job-seekers."

Delshawn Mitchner is starting a career as a dog trainer.
Delshawn Mitchner is starting a career as a dog trainer. (KTEN)

Delshawn Mitchner is yet another success story, getting a start to his career as a pet trainer. 

"I love my job; I come here and I'm greeted with arms and hugs," he said. "This is a big family here, and we have the respect for each other."

"If you're scared and don't feel like you can get back in with the real workforce, you can," added Hunt. "There's people out there that will help you."