22/04/2025
Grooming Isn’t Just About Appearance — It’s About Trust.
This is a long one, but bear with me.
We all know at least one dog that may carry memories of pain, trauma, or fear — whether from injury, surgery (like my own Harry, my bionic-hipped Cocker!), or past experiences. Others are rescues or simply new to grooming altogether. Every dog deserves to be heard — and treated with understanding.
As a fully qualified groomer, I work with all kinds of dogs — from those who jump happily onto the table (or even run and open the salon door, then jump on the table 🤣), to those needing extra patience. Calming and desensitising nervous dogs is a specialised skill, built from additional training and experience, and it’s something I’m proud to offer.
I practise consent-based grooming — using patience, encouragement, and gentle desensitisation.
If a dog isn’t comfortable with a certain area, I won’t force them just for the sake of appearances. Full groom price still applies (as stated in my terms and conditions), because emotional support and time are just as important as the groom itself, as is building the relationship with your dog.
Sometimes it’s about gentle distraction or working around sensitive areas. Other times, if a dog is too distressed or aggressive, I will recommend sedation through a vet — the safest and kindest option.
Recently, a dog who had previously needed sedation for anxiety spent a full Reiki session here calmly lying on the table — and just a week later, had a full groom completed without stress. Trust makes all the difference.
Sadly, a trend has grown online showing dogs in obvious distress during grooming. I want to be very clear: I do not, and will never, condone that. A dog’s trust should never be broken for entertainment or to get the biggest number of “likes” for a social media post. That is not what I am about.
You’ll notice my photos aren’t just “after” shots. I believe in showing dogs relaxed, playing, and enjoying the process — because that’s the experience I want them to have. Grooms with me should be a fun and enjoyable experience for your dog, plus I get amazing job satisfaction too!
If you’d like to learn more about the techniques I use, I recommend a brilliant book written by the amazing Sue Williamson (designed for puppies, but perfect for dogs of any age!). It’s one of a series, but this is great for starting from scratch at home.
https://amzn.eu/d/5Pp7KQ3
And what more of a handsome boy, who once couldn’t bear having his feet or nails touched.
Today? Sat proud and peaceful with nails done and feet trimmed, not batting an eyelid — and thoroughly enjoying his massage at the end.
Gentle handling works, it may take time, but long term it is the best option for your dog. Kindness and trust matter.
Lorrie x
📞 01769 302113 📱07878 230 934
🌐 www.gonedoggrooming.co.uk