PETS
Meet the Groomer
LUCY STOATE
The DogChester Luxury Mobile Pet Spa
LUCY STOATE HAS ALWAYS BEEN AN ANIMAL LOVER , BUT IN 2021 SHE DECIDED TO MAKE HER DREAMS OF WORKING WITH MAN ' S BEST FRIEND A REALITY WHEN SHE SET UP THE DOGCHESTER LUXURY MOBILE PET SPA . NOW , 12 MONTHS ON , LUCY LENDS HER SERVICES TO PETS IN ASHFORD , TUNBRIDGE WELLS , TONBRIDGE AND ALL THE VILLAGES IN-BETWEEN . JESS MARSHALL SAT DOWN WITH LUCY TO FIND OUT ALL ABOUT WHAT IT ' S LIKE BEING A DOG GROOMER FOR KENT ’ S MOST PAMPERED PUPS !
What made you want to open your own dog grooming business ?
I have always LOVED dogs ! I wanted to be a vet growing up but then life happened and I ended up working in wine . I loved my job , but as the pandemic hit I was made redundant after being furloughed . During furlough I had made the decision to change my life and start a new career doing what I really wanted to do – work with dogs . It was a huge step for me to branch out and re-train but I knew I had to put my happiness first so I reached out to the wonderful Sarah at Four Paws Groom School . I studied for my iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming and Salon Management qualification and the rest is history .
How do you deal with nervous pups in your spa ?
I think it ' s easy to forget that all dogs are total individuals . They have emotions and ‘ off ’ days just like we do . If I sense a dog is struggling with the grooming environment I take time to try and understand what is triggering them . I will then try and work with the dog and the owner to build confidence and reduce fear over time , using positive reinforcement like treats and toys or sometimes just pure encouragement .
What do you love about the work you do ?
I feel really enriched after transforming a dog , I love to see how their posture changes once they are clean and fresh . It is also lovely to see very happy owners too .
LUCY ’ S TOP GROOMING TIPS MAINTAINING GROOMING BETWEEN VISITS :
My top advice is BRUSH , BRUSH , BRUSH ! Just 10 minutes a day of brushing can save your dog unnecessary discomfort and can save you a great deal of money when you get your dogs groomed as we don ’ t need to spend an hour or so dematting a dog before their haircut .
TRIMMING NAILS :
My advice would always be to seek professional help for nail clipping . Whether this is your groomer or your vet . Desensitising the dog to the nail clippers is probably the most useful thing to do , leaving the nail clippers nearby when they are resting and offering treats and reassurance can reduce anxiety and make the whole experience less daunting for when the dogs have their nails trimmed at the groomers .
HOME GROOMING EQUIPMENT :
When brushing your dog , do some research or ask your groomer for the tools they recommend you use . Different coat types require different brushes and rakes . I would also advise investing in a decent quality brush , they last a long time and are a great investment .
PLANNING YOUR PROFESSIONAL GROOMS :
If you can be organised and book your grooms for six months or a year your dog will always get the slot they need and you won ’ t leave your pooch overdue for a groom .
ENJOYING THE DOWNTIME :
I meet so many dog owners that feel anxious about their dog being groomed . There really is nothing to worry about . Use the time whilst your dog is being pampered to have some ‘ you ’ time or even a pamper yourself . They are in safe hands , enjoy it !
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