01/02/2026
I wanted to do a post about this brave soul Elsa.
Elsa first came to me in July 2024 (she was then called Talsa) after being rescued from awful conditions by Many Tears Animal Rescue. She was being fostered by Victoria Gerlis and Ricci Connolly who asked if I could give her a comfort groom.
When Victoria turned up with Elsa my heart broke - I have never met a dog so traumatised and shut off before. What she had been through in her short life was unimaginable. Locked in small, dark and dirty conditions she was used to continually produce litters of puppies. She probably never saw light or walked on grass for her whole life. Never shown any kindness (in fact most probably beaten and threatened). Because of the conditions she was kept in she wasn't able to thrive and as a result her growth was stunted, her joints didn't develop properly as she couldn't move around and run like a dog is supposed to.
Fast forward to October 2024 and she was adopted by Katie Marshall and her husband and to say she won the dog lottery is an understatement. She couldn't have gone to a more patient and loving home. The new home also came with a new big brother Bailey who Elsa adores. Katie asked me if I would continue to groom Elsa and I was honored to do so. Elsa along with her brother Bailey have been coming to me ever since.
I wanted to share this post to show how far along Elsa has come. She is still scared of the world and I don't think that will ever change as it is part of her - it is her survival instinct. But the changes in her are huge. Before she would curl up and not make eye contact with me - now she is walking around the salon sniffing at my feet while I groom Bailey. She still freezes when I stroke her but she enjoys the fuss once she knows everything is ok. Her new family has done an amazing job of making her feel loved and secure and the changes in her are a real testament to them and their patience with her.
She is an absolute wonder and the epitome of strength ❤️
If you are thinking of getting a dog please do your research and find a reputable breeder or (and in my personal opinion the best option) adopt from a rescue. I have heard so many times that people get puppies from a puppy farm and they take the pup because they want to get them away - unfortunately by doing this you're contributing to the problem. Those people are getting their money and continuing their evil trade. If you do encounter somewhere that you suspect of being a puppy farm please alert the police and the RSPCA.
