21/06/2026
A long post but I feel it’s needed…
Like many groomers across Wales, I have been deeply saddened and concerned by the recent news articles regarding serious animal welfare concerns at another grooming establishment.
The unfortunate reality is that many responsible groomers within the industry were already aware of concerns surrounding this business, and reports had been made repeatedly over a long period of time. I myself have encouraged these recent reports be made public.
Until dog grooming becomes a properly regulated industry, situations like this remain a risk that pet owners unknowingly face when choosing who to trust with their beloved companions.
I wanted to take a moment to reassure my own clients.
Dogs are, quite simply, my world. I left a career in healthcare to pursue my dream of working with animals because caring for them has always been my passion. I am fully qualified with an Ofqual-regulated certification with a C&G level 3 certificate. I am fully insured, and my background as a veterinary nurse has given me extensive experience in animal health, welfare, behaviour, and safe handling.
I also attend seminars and courses all over the country, as well as webinars, to continue my professional development in dog grooming, animal welfare and behaviour.
Combined with my competitions, showing my dogs, and teaching seminars myself, my finger is on the pulse with keeping my practices up to date and at their best for your dogs.
I know some owners worry when their dog doesn’t rush through the salon door with excitement. The truth is, most dogs would simply rather stay with Mum and Dad or go for a walk than have a bath and haircut! It doesn’t mean they are frightened, neglected, or mistreated.
In fact, having owners remain present during grooming is often far more stressful and potentially dangerous for dogs. They naturally try to reach for their owners while I am working with extremely sharp scissors and equipment. More often than not, the dramatic “please save me” performance disappears the moment their owners leave and they settle into the routine. I often joke that some of them deserve an Oscar!
One thing I am particularly proud of is my ability to work with dogs that may be nervous, reactive, anxious, or simply uncomfortable with grooming. I don’t like the term “difficult dogs” because every dog is simply communicating something. Building trust, working at their pace, and helping them learn that grooming can be a positive experience is one of the most rewarding parts of my job.
Every dog that walks through my door is treated as if they were my own. They are not just appointments in a diary. They become part of our salon family. When a client passes away, moves away, or stops visiting for any reason, I genuinely think about them and wonder how they are doing. That’s how much these dogs mean to me.
Please don’t let the actions of a small number of individuals damage your trust in professional groomers as a whole. The vast majority of us absolutely adore our canine clients and are committed to providing the safest, kindest, and most welfare-focused care possible.
Thank you for continuing to trust me with members of your family. It is a responsibility I never take for granted.
❤️ Jordan
Diamonds in the Ruff Pet Spa
