Hi this is me Chris, more commonly known as Chris the Dogman. Although this photo taken for a magazine article is from a few years ago, It sums up how much of my life revolves around dogs. I fell into Dog grooming by accident 20 years ago when I couldn’t find anybody to groom my west highland terriers….well you know the old saying “if you want something doing”
Over the last 20 years I have seen changes in the industry and have been glad to play my part in those. I truly believe the welfare of the dogs comes first, and have pushed the need for education both for professional dog groomers and those that share their lives with dogs. I am always happy to answer questions and assist where I can.
Surprised at the lack of regulation when I first entered the industry, my own learning journey has seen me attend numerous courses and seminars. I have gained along the way my City and Guilds Level 2, My level 3 Diploma Dog grooming and Salon management, a BSc (Hons) in Animal Behaviour and Welfare, a PGCE teaching qualification, Level 3 and Level 4 canine First Aid and Level 3 Award in Canine Oral Hygiene. Who said you cant teach an old dog new tricks !
Seeing the numerous options advertised for people trying to get into Dog grooming, I was fortunate to be approved as an IPEt training centre offering a range of Dog grooming qualifications including those recognised by the Dog grooming Industry for qualified Dog groomers. There is a great deal of satisfaction achieved in seeing those who have trained and worked with you go on to open and run their own successful businesses, including one who is now in turn an approved training centre.
(You can find out more about Dog Grooming Qualifications here)
When I started, it was important that I maintained the service that I would want for my own dogs. One to one, a relaxed environment and as less stress as possible. No crates or cages and a process they would look forward to as part of life not a process to be endured. This shows, you can find clips of mine happily getting into the bath or on the table. This is something your dog should feel as well when they come.
Age slows us down a little, so now work is carried out back where it all started, my team have spread their wings and moved on. A move back to my little salon in Hermon was carried out earlier this year and I’m enjoying looking after your dogs in a lovely countryside setting.
Our Standards
We have always had an open door policy, and have always groomed using minimal restraint and positive encouragement for behaviour. If you wish you can watch your dog been groomed or sit and relax with a cuppa, whilst we do the hard work.
Through our one on one working we aim to provide a less stressful environment, and an enjoyable experience for your best friend. This is why we operate strictly by appointment only.
We use only naturally or organically based shampoos and conditioners as standard. These may not be the cheapest, but as we wouldn’t use anything less for our dogs, why would we for yours?
If you would like to know more about us, or visit prior to your dog been groomed, please feel free to email or ring us
Where Are We?
Based in Hermon , Dog and Bone Grooming has been established in Wales now for a number of years. The majority of the dogs we see are repeat customers or word of mouth referrals.
