18/07/2026
Recent events within the local grooming industry have understandably left many owners searching for a new groomer. My heart genuinely goes out to those whose pets have been let down.
However, this has also highlighted something that I feel I need to say.
Not every customer is the right customer for Darcie's Pet Club.
My business has never been built on being the cheapest, rushing dogs through, or saying yes to everything. It has been built on one thing - the welfare of the pets in my care.
Every decision I make is made with that in mind.
🐾 One-to-one appointments.
🐾 Individual time slots based on each pet's needs.
🐾 Regular pet first aid training.
🐾 Emergency procedures in place.
🐾 Calm, low-stress grooming from start to finish.
This also means I have boundaries.
Your appointment time matters.
When your pet is ready, they need collecting. They are not left waiting while owners go shopping or finish work. Every late collection affects the next family and means another pet is waiting longer than necessary. That's simply not fair on them.
It also means I will continue speaking out about grooming neglect.
Dogs with continuously growing coats - Cockapoos, Cavapoos, Shih Tzus, Poodles and many others - need regular grooming. It isn't optional. It is part of responsible pet ownership, just like feeding them, providing fresh water and taking them to the vet when they're ill.
Turning up every six months with a severely matted dog that requires shaving is not something I believe should be accepted as normal.
I work six days a week to accommodate as many families as I can, but my time is limited. My loyal, regular clients who keep their pets on schedule deserve to have access to appointments without unnecessary delays.
Unfortunately, over the past few weeks I've experienced abusive phone calls, disrespect towards my policies and an increase in enquiries that simply don't align with the values of this business.
Because of this, I will be closing my books to new customers for the next two weeks.
This is so I can look after the wonderful clients and pets who already trust me and ensure they continue receiving the standard of care they deserve.
Darcie's Pet Club isn't for everyone.
If you're looking for the cheapest groom, we're probably not the right salon.
If you're looking for somewhere that puts your pet's welfare above everything else, respects them as individuals and treats them like family, then you'll always be welcome.
To every client who respects my policies, values my time and, most importantly, prioritises their pet's wellbeing - thank you. You are the reason this business exists, and I appreciate every single one of you. ❤️
With love
Darcie x
