Mary is our only dog groomer.    

She served an old fashioned two and a half year apprenticeship in dog grooming while working for Ann Rawlinson of the Highla poodles.   Ann having training at the world famous Vulcan Champagne kennels which at that time were owned by the Hon Mrs Ionides.  There were no recognised qualicatons for dog gooming back in the 1960's, but the apprenticeship gave Mary a thorough training.   

 

Mary specialised mainly in poodles, due to training with a poodle breeder, but has trimmed most breeds, over the years having trimmed several dogs who have been placed as high as best of group and best poodle in show at open show level, and placed 1st in classes at championsip level.   Having worked for Ann for about 8 years Ann moved, so Mary became a mobile groomer, working on the dog's in their own homes, she has also worked at another kennels while still living in Kent, and ran a busy grooming salon in Gillingham, Kent for many years, before moving to Dorset in January 1990.  

 

Having  trained with a poodle specialist, Mary can trim poodles to show standard, and has also trimmed other breeds to show standard in the past.  

She now prefers to do mainly pet dogs as having had too many injuries over the years to cope with the extra time and efforts that show dogs require, apart that is from the intention to show the next portuguese water dog.  ( she will arrive in March this year)

 

When trimming pets, the show quality of cut is maintained, but with the pet styling, these trims can also be adapted to an owners requirements, so spend a little time with Mary so she can get a good idea of what effect is required. 

 

However, Mary admits to not being infallible, if she does not get it right, let her  learn from her mistakes and correct them, she will do this free of charge if it is within a couple of weeks

 

  In this very rural area, many owners like to keep their dogs trimmed short, they are easier to groom and keep clean, but they still need trimming regularly if they are not to get matted, and uncomfortable,  nails can be kept short and ears cleaned.

We will always let you know if we feel there is a problem that requires veterinary treatment.