Here’s a little interview we did with Abbie from Karma Canines to find out a little bit about her and her new business…
Tell me a little bit about yourself & your business
Hi, I’m Abbie and I’m the owner of Karma Canines, a 1-2-1 dog grooming studio beside St Matthew’s school. I tailor the grooming sessions to each dog and will work with them to ensure they are calm and happy. I’ve been open since mid January and it’s going great so far – plenty of return customers now and lots of new ones as well. I’m only open on Fridays and Saturdays at the moment but hoping to be open more hours very soon.
How did you get into doing what you’re doing?
I’ve always loved animals but always just worked in an office job which I’ve never really been passionate about, whilst doing animal related volunteer work outside official work. Last year I decided it was now or never to take the leap to completely change career and set up my own business, so I did the iPET Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming and Salon Management, got our garage converted and here I am now, loving my job!
What does a ‘normal’ day look like?
A normal day starts at 8am where I take the commute up my garden to my grooming salon to set up for the day! There really isn’t a typical day as I can have a complete mixture of meet and greets, full grooms, nail clipping or bath, blow dry and de-sheds so I can have between 3-6 dogs a day in, cleaning between each dog and trying to squeeze some time in for a coffee and a bite of lunch. With lots of dog cuddles included as well of course!
Favourite service you deliver
The puppy package I offer - it’s a 4 session package where the puppy comes in first for a meet and greet with their owner, second appointment is to get used to the sounds and sensations of the grooming environment, third session is a bath and blow dry and then the last one is a full groom. I love the fact that I can feel the puppy grow more confident and get to know what is expected of them during a groom. To create an environment for them where they feel comfortable and happy and they can go home with positive memories ready to come back the next time. I always end a grooming session with some treats (if the dog is allowed) and a little play!
Plans for 2025 / the future?
Since my business is very new, the plan for 2025 is to get the word out there about my grooming salon, get lots of recommendations and build up my customer base, working up to being able to do it full time very soon.
Why should people shop local and support their local indie businesses?
The local high street is so important as it helps keep a sense of community and there are so many amazing local shops and other businesses that everyone should do their best to shop local and help keep these businesses going.
Where can we find you :
17 Wensley View (grooming salon is at the back of the house just opposite St Matthew’s school gates)
At the moment open Fridays 8am-6pm and Saturdays 9am-5pm
https://www.facebook.com/share/1AQBxxPe4H/
https://www.instagram.com/karma.canines