Dog Care Tips

The Hidden Risks of Lick Mats & Slow Feeders in the Grooming Room

The Hidden Risks of Lick Mats & Slow Feeders in the Grooming Room

Lick mats and slow feeders have become a go-to tool in more holistic and cooperative salons around the world – I personally have recommended, and used, them over the years to help calm dogs and create positive associations to stressful grooming tasks. But, my experience with Nala – my late Tibetan Mastiff – also highlighted a risk that many groomers don’t think to consider when deciding how best to form positive associations, which is something I feel we need to talk more about.

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When To Start Grooming A Puppy and How To Do It Right

When To Start Grooming A Puppy and How To Do It Right

There’s mixed opinions on when to start grooming a puppy, with most puppy carers thinking grooming is only necessary when the coat starts to get messy. By this point, you’re already late to the party! I can’t count the number of times I have received an enquiry about getting a puppy into the salon for their first puppy groom, only to be told they are 6-months-old…

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Age, Welfare & Special Needs in Holistic Dog Grooming

Age, Welfare & Special Needs in Holistic Dog Grooming

When you work holistically, you’re not grooming “a breed” or simply performing “a haircut” – you’re grooming an animal with a nervous system, a life history, and a body that changes over time. In HGA Philosophy, the student learns how age, development, welfare history, and health influence grooming tolerance and needs, so they can confidently build a bespoke care plan that caters to a dog’s individual needs.

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Safe Dog Interaction: Respect, Consent, and Safeguarding Families with Dogs

Safe Dog Interaction: Respect, Consent, and Safeguarding Families with Dogs

The festive season should be a time of joy, yet, as highlighted by recent South Yorkshire Police statistics, it too often brings a spike in serious dog bite incidents. Between 24–26 December alone, police received 15 calls for dog-related injuries or fear, with victims ranging from toddlers to elderly couples. These are not isolated cases – they’re a stark reminder that prevention, education, and respect for our canine companions are absolutely essential (South Yorkshire Police, 2025).

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Traveling Safely with Your Dog: UK Law, Legislation, and Low-Stress Journeys

Traveling Safely with Your Dog: UK Law, Legislation, and Low-Stress Journeys

Travelling with your dog can be a joyful experience, but it comes with both legal responsibilities and the need to protect your dog’s wellbeing. Let’s explore how to stay on the right side of UK law whilst ensuring your dog feels safe and relaxed, minimising stress that could not only impact future grooming sessions, but your dog’s quality of life day-to-day.

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How To Set Up Your Home For Low-Stress Grooming Success

How To Set Up Your Home For Low-Stress Grooming Success

Not long ago, I worked with a lovely rescue spaniel called Daisy who used to panic at the very sight of a brush. As per HGA protocol, I devised a bespoke care plan incorporating desensitisation exercises into the salon environment, meanwhile her carer was tasked to try the same methods at home in between.

After a couple of weeks Daisy was making great progress in the salon and I was able to brush almost every area of her body without signs of unreasonable stress yet according to her carer, things weren’t improving during their home bonding sessions whatsoever.

Her carer seemed to be doing everything right but even still, Daisy would try everything to avoid being brushed at home.

I decided to visit Daisy in her home environment to see what was happening myself, and as explained, as soon as the brush came out she was hiding under tables and chairs to avoid the session. I looked at the space around us.

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The Potential Benefits of Essential Oils in Holistic Dog Care: A Balanced, Evidence-Based Perspective

The Potential Benefits of Essential Oils in Holistic Dog Care: A Balanced, Evidence-Based Perspective

Essential oils have been used for centuries in human wellness routines, and their application in holistic pet care (particularly for dogs) has gained traction in recent years. Whilst there are well-documented risks (see my companion post on essential oil dangers here), it’s also worthwhile to acknowledge that, when used responsibly and with proper knowledge, certain essential oils may offer genuine benefits for canine wellbeing.

In this post, I will explore what the science actually says, offer practical advice, highlight real-life case studies, and introduce safe alternatives like Pet Remedy and floral waters.

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Keeping Dogs Calm and Safe at Christmas – A Quick Guide for Doting Dog Carers

Keeping Dogs Calm and Safe at Christmas – A Quick Guide for Doting Dog Carers

The festive season is a magical time for many but for our canine companions, Christmas can bring a whirlwind of change – guests, noise, new smells, unpredictable routines, and excited children are all part and present with Christmas Day. Whilst we may revel in the celebration and festive season, dogs often experience increased stress which can manifest as anxiety, unwanted behaviours, or even health issues. But as responsible carers, it’s our job to ensure their needs are not overlooked amidst the tinsel and turkey.

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