Our Story.
Dogs have always played such a positive part in my life so, when I retrained as a dog groomer several years ago, my experience was not what I expected as the priority was on speed and appearance. There was no focus on the dog’s behaviour whilst being groomed, or why they behaved that way, so the answer to a wriggly dog was to further restrain it and if one tried to bite, then a muzzle would be used. It was never considered that the dog was probably just overly aroused and frightened and that this approach only magnified and reinforced its fear further. This made me decide that an alternative approach was required where each pet’s specific needs were addressed and their overall experience was enriched and positive. The basis of this, like in any good relationship, is the building of trust.
Only a fully ‘holistic’ approach would offer the care that I sought to provide, as the whole of the dog could be looked after including their emotional and physiological needs, rather than just how they looked. I am proud to have completed a diploma in Canine Communication and to have qualified in Low Stress Handling and as a Fear Free Professional.
Fear Free has become one of the single most transformative initiatives in the history of companion animal practice, providing unparalleled education on emotional wellbeing, enrichment, and the reduction of fear, anxiety, and stress in pets. I am able to recognise when a dog is starting to feel stressed and respond accordingly, in order to work towards a different outcome than they may have previously experienced. I therefore always offer one-to-one grooming in a safe and stress-free environment where I use consent-based positive reinforcement at a pace which is comfortable for your pet. In addition to the minimal use of restraints, I use a mixture of plant-based shampoos and essential aromatherapy oils to help relax your pet and achieve my goal of making their grooming experience enjoyable. With your dog relaxed and happy, grooming, further treatments to its coat and skin and also other treatments such as teeth cleaning can be carried out.