Why I started Top To Tail Dog Groomers

I want to share the story of how I ventured into the world of dog grooming and it all began with a little ball of fur named Hartley.

Hartley, my first-ever canine companion, was a Coton du Tulear, a breed known for its charm and loyalty (Hence why I now have seven of them!). He was the best dog, a funny old character that loved to be played with by my children when they were younger. He wasn't a lap dog, but he would always make sure he was sat next to you. He loved to nuzzle his head into you and he loved to play hide and seek. Those that knew he know how beautiful he was and is the reason I started this journey.

When he was a puppy, his fur was short, and so grooming was a breeze. As he grew older, though, his coat started to resemble a cotton ball (hence the name!) – long and fluffy and easy to get tangled. I realised it was time for a professional groomer's touch so with the best intentions and expecting a smooth experience, I took Hartley to the dog groomers. Little did I know that this routine trip would turn into a heart-wrenching ordeal. I left Hartley at the grooming salon, thinking that a simple haircut shouldn't be this traumatic.

To my dismay, when I returned to the salon, I found my little man trembling and in a state of distress, desperately wanting to escape. It broke my heart, and guilt washed over me. I never anticipated that something as routine as grooming could become such a traumatic experience.

This experience that had affected him and me so badly meant I was anxious to keep taking him to the dog groomers. I tried other ones but due to this initial experience he had, he was forever scared of being left at a groomers.

This sparked a deep desire within me to create a grooming business that was truly personal, treating each animal with the care and respect they deserve. I've always loved animals and most days (well every day) I prefer to spend my time with them instead of people!

It's why I've embraced a 1:1 care model, ensuring that your beloved pets are my sole focus during their grooming sessions. I don't rush appointments, as I know that hurried grooming can make dogs anxious. I've even delved into the world of dog psychology to better understand and cater to their needs.

I've consciously chosen not to expand my business beyond what I can personally handle because I'm committed to delivering 100% care to these innocent animals. It's about making every grooming experience a positive one, ensuring that your pets leave with wagging tails and hearts full of joy.

Over a decade has passed since that pivotal decision, and I can honestly say that I still cherish every moment of it. But, let's be real - there are times when I wish for a cup of tea without a sprinkle of dog hair or a spotlessly fur-free corner at home.

So, that's the story of my journey from traumatic grooming experiences to becoming a dog groomer who's here to make your dogs feel pampered and adored. It's not just a business; it's a labor of love that brings joy to tails and smiles to pet parents. Thanks for joining me on this adventure, and here's to many more fluffy tales in the future!