Pencaitland Dog Grooming & Petcheckers

21/02/2026

Pup is back for his 2nd introductory grooming session. He's becoming more comfortable with the dryer and handling. He's such a cutie 💓

09/02/2026

I had the pleasure of grooming the cutest Golden Retriever puppy today as he begins his grooming journey.

IF YOU KNOW ANY ONE WITH A PUPPY OR ABOUT TO GET A PUPPY, PLEASE PASS ON THIS MESSAGE.

Introducing puppies to the grooming salon as soon as they are fully vaccinated has huge benefits. A good groomer wants your dog to feel relaxed, safe and confident during grooming, and this is much easier to achieve when their experiences start early.

Over a series of gentle sessions, your puppy can gradually become familiar with the groomer, the salon environment, the equipment, and the grooming process, helping to build their confidence and create positive associations. Your groomer will also guide you on what you can do at home to make grooming easier for your puppy.

Many groomers offer puppy introduction packages to give your puppy the best possible start.

In contrast, bringing a six-month-old matted adolescent puppy for their very first groom skips all of this gentle preparation, often leaving them with negative memories that can be hard to undo.

From a dog’s perspective (let’s call him Fred), walking into a grooming salon can be overwhelming. The unfamiliar sounds, sights, smells and textures all need time to process.
This can feel even more intense if Fred is rushed straight into the bath or onto the table—both likely new experiences for him.

Most grooms involve Fred being:
Lifted onto a high surface
Fitted with safety restraints
Bathed and dried (towel, high-velocity dryer, finishing dryer)
Brushed all over
Having his nails clipped
Being clipped and scissored
Having his legs, ears and tail handled
Moved between table and bath
Having hygiene areas tidied
Possibly having ear hair plucked and teeth cleaned
Finishing with a spritz of cologne

Even with the gentlest groomer, this can feel stressful—especially if Fred also struggles with things like:
Separation anxiety
Nervousness around strangers
Noise or touch sensitivity
Discomfort or pain
A matted coat
Little experience being handled
No grooming practice at home
Other dogs and people in the salon
Standing still for long periods
Wearing safety restraints

When all of this is combined, it’s easy to see why some dogs become overwhelmed and develop negative associations with grooming. This can lead to fear, resistance, or even aggressive behaviour, sometimes requiring muzzles or additional safety measures. In the worst cases, groomers may refuse to work with the dog, leaving owners with the only option of a costly sedated groom at the vet.
Starting early, slowly and positively makes all the difference—for Fred, for the groomer, and for you. 💛

08/02/2026

I couldn’t believe how much fur came out of the Labrador and Border Terrier — it’s so satisfying to see the difference between their coats before and after grooming.

07/01/2026

Groomed this wee cutie today..

07/11/2025

Hand Stripping Available

If you have (or know someone who has) a wire-coated breed that needs hand stripping — I’m now taking bookings!

Hand stripping keeps the coat in its best condition, maintaining that lovely texture and natural colour that clipping can take away. It’s perfect for breeds like Border Terriers, Schnauzers, Cockers, and other wire coats.

If anyone you know is looking for a groomer who offers hand stripping, please do pass on my details — word of mouth is always so appreciated!

Please, message me for more info or to book an appointment on 07888677649.😍

30/09/2025

17/09/2025

I’ve recently completed a Hand Stripping course and I’m delighted to now be offering this service. 🐾

Here’s a little before-and-after from my training day.

If you or anyone you know is looking for Hand Stripping for their dog, please do spread the word. 😊

01/09/2025

This morning I had the pleasure of carrying out a full groom and de-shed on a lovely Bernese Mountain Dog.

Regular de-shedding not only keeps the coat looking healthy and glossy, but it also helps reduce excess hair around the home and keeps the dog feeling more comfortable. The transformation was incredible, and it was so rewarding to see how much coat was removed during the session.

01/08/2025

A wee peek at some of the beautiful dogs I’ve been grooming. 🐾 They’ve all been absolute stars – and those cuddles don’t hurt either!

11/07/2025

I'm a certified professional dog groomer , offering calm, one-to-one grooming in a relaxed setting.

Whether your dog needs a quick wash and tidy or the full pampering treatment, especially the nervous, wiggly, or first-time visitor's. From fluffy trims to deep de-sheds, I've got it covered.

Please note: for the safety of all involved, I'm unable to accept dogs with aggressive behaviour.

But, that's not all - I also offer friendly and reliable pet sitting. Going away? I'll pop in to care for your pets in the comfort of their own home - whether they meow, squeak, chirp, or slither!

*Based in Pencaitland
*One-to-one grooming
*Pet Sitting
*Scottish Disclosure Certified
*Friendly, reliable, and a lifelong animal lover.

To book or ask a question, just drop me a message, text or call.
- 07888677649
- [email protected]

Please like, share and help spread the word - thank you.

Pencaitland Dog Grooming and Petcheckers.