🐾 “More Than ‘Just a Clip’ – Why Every Groom Tells a Story About Your Dog’s Health and Wellbeing”
(The truth behind what really happens in a professional one-to-one grooming session in Carmarthenshire)
Many people call to ask, “Can I just have a quick clip?” or “Just a bath, please.”
But here at Dog and Bone Grooming, based in rural Carmarthenshire, there’s no such thing as “just” anything — because every grooming session is an opportunity to check your dog’s overall health, comfort and happiness.
When you bring your dog to me, you’re not simply booking a haircut or a wash. You’re trusting me with your dog’s wellbeing — and that’s a responsibility I take seriously.
🩺 Every Groom Starts with a Physical Health Check
Before any clippers or shampoo come out, I perform a gentle hands-on health assessment. This isn’t a veterinary exam, but it allows me to spot the small details that matter, such as:
-
Skin condition – dryness, redness, lumps or parasites
-
Ears – signs of wax build-up, infection or irritation
-
Eyes – excessive tearing or discharge
-
Nails and pads – overgrowth, cracks or soreness
-
Coat texture – dryness, shedding, matting, or changes in density
These checks often catch issues early — helping you seek veterinary advice before a small problem becomes a big one.
🐕 Behaviour Speaks Volumes – What Your Dog Tells Me Without Words
In my one-to-one salon, I can focus solely on your dog’s behaviour and body language. That quiet setting allows me to notice:
-
Lip licking, yawning, turning away – signs of mild stress
-
Paw lifting, trembling, or freezing – indicators of discomfort or fear
-
Tail position and ear movement – signals of relaxation or tension
Understanding these subtle cues helps me adjust my technique — for example, changing clipper speed, using a quieter dryer, or taking short breaks to help your dog feel safe and calm.
✂️ Tailoring the Technique to the Dog, Not the Other Way Around
No two dogs are the same — and neither are their grooming needs.
A nervous spaniel might need slower introductions to equipment, while a thick-coated poodle might need more brushing and rest periods to avoid irritation.
I adapt each session based on the dog’s:
-
Age and mobility
-
Coat type and skin condition
-
Temperament and previous grooming experiences
That’s why a “simple clip” or “just a bath” often involves far more care, time and technique than people realise.
💬 Why It Matters
Taking the time to tailor each groom ensures:
-
Less stress for your dog
-
Better coat and skin health
-
A safer, more enjoyable experience overall
When you choose Dog and Bone Grooming, you’re not just getting a service — you’re choosing a partnership in your dog’s care.
📍 About Dog and Bone Grooming – Carmarthenshire’s One-to-One Salon
I’m Chris, a qualified Level 3 Dog Groomer with a BSc (Hons) in Animal Welfare and Behaviour, a Level 4 Canine First Aid certification, and nearly 20 years of hands-on grooming experience.
Working one-to-one in a calm, rural setting means your dog receives the full attention they deserve — with quality products, expert care, and a stress-free environment.
📅 By appointment only
📞 Call or WhatsApp: 07852 569375
📧 Email: chris@dogandbonegrooming.co.uk
