Vicky had worked in a school for nine years, doing baking, but dog grooming had always been in the back of her mind. Eventually she decided it was time to stop thinking about it and actually do it.

“I’ve always wanted to do dog grooming. I just decided it was time.”

Location mattered to her, and once she realised training could fit around normal life, it felt realistic. She quickly saw how the schedule could work, even around school runs.

“It really works for managing life around your dreams.”

In the early weeks, learning alongside other students became part of what she enjoyed most. Watching how others groomed, sharing dogs at times, and gradually helping guide newer students helped build her own confidence.

“You get to know people and you learn from each other.”

She’d previously trained as a barber, and although dog grooming is different, the scissoring skills came back naturally once she adjusted.

“It never leaves you. I just had to switch my brain.”

There were moments that felt like a lot, especially when working with bigger dogs or focusing on handling. But those challenges helped her realise what types of dogs she most enjoys working with. One small but memorable favourite has been the resident Chihuahua.

“She’s my favourite. When you get to know them, you change your mind.”

Her proud moments weren’t just one single groom – they came in stages.

“There’ve been lots of times I’ve finished a job and thought, yeah, that’s a really nice groom.”

Now she’s almost ready to go. Her husband is finishing a few final touches to her home setup, her first Labrador is already booked in, and she has her full kit and new scissors ready.

“I absolutely loved it. I’ve made friends, learnt so much and I’m ready to get going.”

For Vicky, this has been about finally doing the thing she’d always thought about – and now she’s stepping straight into it.