01/22/2026
For those who may not have heard, Gone With the Dogs will be permanently closing at the end of January 2026.
This was by no means an easy decision for the current owner. Every possible option to keep the business running was explored, but challenges such as the current economy, rising lease costs, and the loss of half of our staff—who went on to open their own salon—made it impossible to continue operating sustainably.
As my time at Gone With the Dogs comes to an end, I find myself reflecting on the many memories I’ve made there. I grew up with this business and learned so much from the previous owner, my mentor, Cheryl Hicox. Had she not given a stubborn teenager a chance all those years ago, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
I’m incredibly grateful for the people I’ve worked alongside and the friendships that grew from our time together.
While Gone With the Dogs is closing, everything I’ve learned will carry with me into the next chapter of my life.
Starting in February, I’ll be joining Top Knotch Grooming, located at 1031 Simcoe St N, Oshawa, ON
working with a fantastic team that I’m excited to be a part of.
To all of my wonderful clients who have supported me over the years—thank you. I’m truly grateful for the trust you’ve placed in me to care for your fur babies ❤️
You can now book with me online for small dogs at:
https://groomerhailey.wixsite.com/topknotchgrooming?fbclid=IwVERDUAPfVlhleHRuA2FlbQIxMABzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAwzNTA2ODU1MzE3MjgAAR4TnWV4ZM2ozVewyiD6BXn5rgn9W8aJGt0v9UBmFylQWOVYMLrxIX6uBxMbAg_aem_cwI0uXJoZtMMeqFpXXpnyg
If you have a large breed dog that you are looking to have me groom please message me to discuss my restrictions.
My Hours:
Thursday to Sunday
8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
If you’re a new client, please be sure to review the post below when booking, as it outlines certain restrictions.
Thank you again to everyone for your continued support. I look forward to seeing familiar faces and welcoming new ones as well!
We are adding a Groomer to the Top Knotch Grooming Team in February!✨
We’re thrilled to announce that Ashley, a Certified Professional Dog Groomer with over 20 years of hands-on experience, has officially joined Top Knotch Grooming! 🐾✂️
She is now welcoming new clients, with limited availability.
What Ashley Brings to Top Knotch Grooming
✅ Certified Professional Groomer (CPPS – Canadian Professional Pet Stylists)
✅ A creative eye with incredible attention to detail
✅ Extensive knowledge of coat types, textures, and breed styles
✅ A safety-first, fear-aware approach to grooming
✅ Reliable, confident, and deeply passionate about her craft
Grooming Considerations
Due to previous injuries in both her arms Ashley cannot:
❌ groom X-Large breeds
❌ accommodate dogs that are overly sensitive, highly skittish, or aggressive on the grooming table
➡️ XL Pets and those that require specialized behavioral grooming will be referred to Jamie/Marie/Hailey
Ashley’s calm demeanor, technical skill, and artistic grooming style make her an incredible asset to the Top Knotch Grooming team—and a wonderful choice for pet parents seeking quality, compassionate care.
📸 View Her Grooming Portfolio
Be sure to check out her work and transformations on social media:
🔗 Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/share/1ARdHByrws/
🔗 Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ashleyspawticulargroomingpage
If you’re looking for a groomer who treats your dog like family and delivers beautiful results, we’re confident Ashley will be a perfect fit.
