Q: Who are you and what were you doing before this course?
A: My name's Carina, I'm 46. For the Upper Hound course I was walking and boarding dogs. Before that I did lots of years in retail and retail management.
Q: What led you to consider dog grooming?
A: My love for dogs. My walking and boarding business had gone as far as it could and wasn't really paying all my bills. I've always wanted to be a groomer but courses were far away. When I found this course close by it was a massive pull, almost too good to be true, so I had to do it.
Q: What were you looking for when you started searching, and why choose this course?
A: Location was important. The package included lots of items, the staff and environment. You, Kate, were personable and I felt like I wasn't in the way, which gave me the confidence to do the full course.
Q: What was the learning environment like and did the timing suit you?
A: Timing's perfect. 9:30 to 2 fits my school run as a single mum. Working alongside other students was really great. Sharing dogs at first then doing more yourself helped build confidence. The space is bright, it's light, professional, with parking. It's a lovely converted barn.
Q: Can you share a proud moment from the course?
A: My proudest day was when I did a teddy head all by myself. I finally nailed the order and everyone said it looked great. I even texted Kate saying I'd had the best day. Each time I left I felt more confident.
Q: What are your plans now you’ve finished?
A: I'm going to work for myself in my garden in a purpose built little salon with a bath, a table, and a dryer. Everything's pink. I found a name and I've already got a couple of clients waiting for me to qualify and start.
Q: How do you feel after completing the 40 grooms and practical assessments?
A: I'm super excited for the new chapter, but quite devastated I won't be coming here twice a week. I'd do the whole course again if I could. I'm proud of myself.
Q: Anything else to add?
A: It wasn't just grooming. Not just the grooming, it's been everything: the business side, customer service, products, insurance, first aid, waste management. All the tools I need to run this as a functioning business at home.
"I'm super excited to move on to the new chapter, but I'm quite devastated I won't be coming here twice a week. I've had such a great time and I'm proud of myself."
Seeing Carina’s transformation from retail to running her own salon has been incredible. She’s combined professionalism, creativity, and warmth in everything she’s done. We’re so proud of how far she’s come and can’t wait to see her new pink salon buzzing with happy dogs.
