Gone Grooming

21/08/2024

🐾 Important Update on Matting Fees 🐾

Hi Everyone,

I’ve recently noticed more dogs coming in with severe matting, which is not just a grooming challenge—it’s a serious welfare concern. I find it soul destroying and it breaks my heart to see a dog in distress. With Autumn and Winter looming before us with all the damp, water and mud, the prevalence of dogs presenting with matting can only get worse.

Mats can cause significant pain, infections, and even cut off circulation, often without the dog showing obvious signs of discomfort.

As part of my commitment to your dog’s well-being under the Animal Welfare Act, I may need to shave severely matted coats to prevent further discomfort and will not spend longer than 15 minutes brushing out knots (I will not be brushing mats as this is inhumane and causes damage to the coat - all mats will be clipped). If your dog becomes too uncomfortable during grooming, I will stop the session, though the grooming and matting fees will still apply. In extreme cases, I may recommend a visit to the vet for clipping under sedation. I will put welfare before vanity every time.

To reflect the time, care, and equipment needed for these situations, I’m updating our terms and conditions to reflect the matting fees and splitting them into two categories (each will apply).

1. Matting & Equipment Fee:
Covers the extra wear on tools - a percentage of equipment cost and maintenance cost will be applied to equipment used. The costs of specialist conditioners and treatment will also be added to this charge.

2. Additional Time Fee: Charged for the extra time required to safely remove mats. This will be on an hourly rate and is to cover the impact on other appointments. A badly matted dog in pain takes considerably more time to groom than one kept in good condition at home and on a regular grooming schedule.

Regular brushing and having your dog on a grooming schedule at the groomers are essential elements of care for your dog’s health, and help prevent matting and matting fees.

I’m here to help with tips and advice to keep their coat in good condition - if you are local or use the kennels and want some free advice, then please drop me a message. Let’s work together to ensure your dog’s comfort and well-being.

PS. I was going to include some photos of mats I have encountered, but I think this article really sends the message home for those of you who may not realise the seriousness of matting, sadly whilst extreme, it’s not an isolated incident.

www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-cambridgeshire-44531890

Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

Lorrie x

📞07878230934
🌐 www.gonegrooming.co.uk

Poodle-cross Benji "didn't even resemble a dog" when he was found near Peterborough, the RSPCA says.

19/08/2024

Oh well, we can dream of hot sun and sandy beaches 😂.

Lorrie x

📞07878230934
🌐www.gonegrooming.co.uk

15/08/2024

Why the radio silence? Well, I've been off on a little adventure, turning "Gone Grooming" into "Gone Fishing." And yes, I did actually find the sweetest dog on a boat that needed a handstrip groom—can't escape, even on holiday! 😂.

But now, after my overground and underground caving escapades (no Womble transformations yet!), I'm back in the salon tomorrow, ready for action and have some gorgeous dogs in. Last week's lovely gallery of furry makeovers will be up soon. In the meantime, here are some holiday snaps…guess where I have been 🤔

PS - if your dog comes in looking like the sheep with dreadlocks, I will not be happy!

Lorrie x

📞07878230934
🌐www.gonegrooming.co.uk

06/08/2024

It’s only 10:45 AM on an unplanned day off (thanks to my car’s little rebellion 🙄).

So far, I’ve:

• Walked the dogs ✅
• Administered dog meds 💊
• Dropped the car off at the garage (it’s in timeout) ✅
• Conquered the supermarket (no injuries sustained) ✅
• Hiked up a hill that felt like Everest with my groceries 🧗
• Posted glamorous dog grooming photos for your viewing pleasure ✅
• Roasted tomatoes with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and fresh thyme 😋
• Baked some irresistible gluten-free cheese bread (because carbs are life).

Meanwhile, my “Italian Verbs Made Easy” book, monthly accounts, and supplies order are giving me the side-eye from the corner 🙄…

When I finally get to sit down and enjoy my first cuppa of the day…ambush time from Harry (hint: he might need a groom) and Mr. Simba Stumpy 💕💕. Best moment ever! FYI, Simba’s tail, or lack thereof, is healing nicely and the stitches come out on Friday. Thanks to everyone who’s been so supportive during this stressful time.

Hope you all are having a fantastic day.

Lorrie x



📞07878230934
🌐www.gonegrooming.co.uk

06/08/2024

Some of the gorgeous dogs from last week who really know how to strike a pose - some a bit cheekier than others! 💕.

Lorrie x #
DogGrooming

📞07878230934
🌐www.gonegrooming.co.uk

01/08/2024

My gang are giving these two stiff competition!

😁❤️

21/07/2024

As many of you know, I have a special love for Labradors and always have to say hello when I see one.

Two years ago, Simba joined us and has fitted right in from day one. He is truly loved, and we are blessed to have him as part of our family.

Here’s to Simba, my one and only Lab Lion, on your 2nd Gotcha Day! Thank you for filling our lives with Labrador love. We love you to bits 💕!

Lorrie x

20/07/2024

🎶 "….And a Partridge in a Pear Tree "

I can't get this Christmas carol out of my head, even in July thanks to the number and variety of dogs in last week. So based on the week, here is my own version:

7 cocker spaniels,
4 greyhounds,
3 chihuahuas,
2 sprockers,
2 golden retrievers,
1 cockapoo,
1 standard poodle,
1 bichon frise,
1 airedale terrier,
and a Cavalier King Charles in a... grooming spree 🤪

Talking of Xmas, I'm already booking Xmas slots. All are on a first-come, first-served basis for existing clients or those staying at Beech Tree. Don't miss out on the Xmas upgrades either. It may seem a way to go, but on a grooming schedule, for some it’s two grooms away.

Enjoy the photos - and remember, behind every dog photo there is a groomer pulling faces, making noises and waving arms 🙈!

Have a fantastic weekend!

Lorrie x


📞 07878230934
🌐 www.gonegrooming.co.uk

14/07/2024

**🌿 Let’s Talk Grass Seeds! 🌿**

As the “Summer” weather continues, it's crucial to keep an eye out for grass seeds during and after your walks. These tiny, seemingly harmless seeds can pose a serious threat. The sticky and thorny burrs are equally troublesome for dogs.

🌾 What’s the danger? 🌾

Grass seeds can easily lodge themselves in your dog's fur, ears, paws, nose, and even eyes. Left unchecked, they can pe*****te the skin/be inhaled/ingested - causing infections, abscesses, and in severe cases, travelling to vital organs. If not promptly treated, these infections can be life-threatening.

💙 Common signs of grass seeds affecting your dog include:

- shaking its head
- licking its paws
- looking uncomfortable
- being lethargic or more grumpy than normal
- seeming like it's in pain
- sudden lameness

Tips to Protect Your Dog:

1. Inspect After Walks: Check your dog's fur, ears, paws, and underbelly for any seeds or burrs. My spaniel Harry always ends up with a green Mohawk of burrs nearly every morning after hedge diving 🙄, and it’s easy to remove the ones you can see, but important to check areas you can’t always see straight away such as paw pads and that and is best achieved by no. 2 below:

2. Brush/Comb Regularly at Home:
Regular grooming can help spot and remove seeds before they cause harm. If you have a dog that likes to sprawl out on their back for a tummy tickle then check their tummy, underneath “armpits” and around the ge***al area - I had a boy dog in last week with a large spiky burr where it shouldn’t be…ouch! If you notice unusual lumps or swollen paw pads -contact your vet.

3. Visit Your Groomer:
It’s important to keep hair neat and trimmed - especially around paws, ears, and belly to minimise seed attachment. We can help with thorough checks and safe removal of some lodged seeds in the coat. Others may require a vet visit.

On a final note - Good Luck England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿⚽️!!

Lorrie x





📞07878230934
🌐www.gonegrooming.co.uk

08/07/2024

Somebody asked me how my day was, my response…,”Hairy” 😂. Shepherd coats galore today.

Some highlights of the day 💕

Lorrie x


#

06/07/2024

🌞 Mid-July already, and while there may be a big football match on, I'm in a kitchen prepping some delicious roast beef! 🍖 The slow cooker is working its magic with mustard, thyme, and a splash of red wine. Meanwhile, I'm chopping up carrots, and I've got three very interested dog "snoots" eagerly awaiting some carrot scraps (Harry loves his veg 🥕).

Speaking of dog snoots, how much do you know about them? As a dog groomer, I'm lucky to get dog kisses every day and plenty of sniffs. Here are some fascinating facts about those adorable snoots:

1. Unique Prints: Just like human fingerprints, every dog’s nose has a unique pattern of ridges and creases.
2. Highly Sensitive: A dog's nose is incredibly sensitive, with up to 300 million olfactory receptors.
3. Nose Function: Dogs can breathe in and out simultaneously, allowing them to continuously smell while exhaling.
4. Moisture Matters: The moisture on a dog’s nose captures scent particles. Dogs lick their noses to keep them moist and enhance their sense of smell.
5. Jacobson’s Organ: This additional olfactory organ detects pheromones and plays a role in social and reproductive behaviours.
6. Temperature Regulation: A dog’s nose helps regulate their body temperature, with the wet surface aiding in cooling.
7. Scent Layers: Dogs can distinguish between different layers of smells, detecting individual ingredients in a slow cooker 😂, for example.
8. Tracking Ability: Dogs' keen sense of smell is used in search and rescue, detecting drugs and explosives, and identifying medical conditions like cancer or low blood sugar.

Here are just some of the gorgeous snoots I've had the pleasure of grooming this week - and Rosie’s photo op with her sister from another mother (photos c/o owner).

Enjoy your weekend, no matter the football result!

Lorrie x 🐾

03/07/2024

Something very exciting arrived at the salon on Monday 🥳🥳! Gone Grooming has been nominated for the Devon Retail Business Awards 2024 for Best Pet Grooming Business in Devon. 🎉🐾

We all have busy lives, so to the person who took the time to nominate Gone Grooming - thank you so, so much! You brought a big smile to my face! 😊

If you'd like to support the business and vote , please visit https://www.nominees.info/vote and/or send a text saying "Gone Grooming, South Molton" to 07520634133.

You can vote as many times as you like, and it’s completely free - it just takes a couple of minutes of your time. You can add reason for voting or leave that blank, it’s entirely up to you. Your details will remain confidential and will not be disclosed or shared.

Thank you for your incredible support!

Lorrie, Harry, Rosie and Simba xx 🐾🐾🐾

28/06/2024

🐾 Always a good day when I get a spontaneous hug from a dog! Not many dogs will leap into their groomer's arms for a cuddle, or take such a keen interest in my hair scrunchie. 😂 Falling asleep under the dryer, though—that's not uncommon.

Have a great weekend!
Lorrie x

22/06/2024

**🐶🌞 Scorcher Alert! 🌞🐶**

We've got some exceptionally high temperatures headed our way this coming week. Whilst the salon is equipped with fans and I minimise the use of dryers as much as possible, the afternoon sun still shines into the salon, making it even warmer.

If I feel that the temperature outside and inside the salon is too high, I will be contacting those people whose dogs have afternoon appointments to reschedule for a morning appointment - this is to ensure the welfare of your dogs. Your understanding and flexibility during this time are greatly appreciated!

In the meantime, here are some tips to keep your dogs cool:
- **Hydrate:** Ensure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water.
- **Shade:** Provide a cool, shaded area for your dog to rest.
- **Avoid Peak Heat:** Walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are lower.
- **Cooling Mats and Towels:** Use cooling mats or damp, cool towels for them to lie on.
- **Watch for Signs of Heatstroke:** Heavy panting, drooling, and lethargy are signs to look out for.

Stay safe and cool, everyone!
PS Harry and Simba say don’t forget your sun hat or shades.

Thanks!
Lorrie x

19/06/2024

Anybody else have dogs that annihilate the stuffing out of their toys? 😂

16/06/2024

Wishing all the dog dads a Happy Fathers Day!

07/06/2024

They say a busy life is a happy life. If that’s the case, then I should be feeling like a lottery jackpot winner 😂.

This week has been a bit bonkers, but there’s been a real variety of dogs in and it’s been grooms, teeth, nails and handstrips. There have also been a few changes to the salon - let me know if you spot them when you next come in. I’m also using some super towels which have drastically reduced drying time, so if I say your dog will be ready earlier than usual, that’s why.

Just some of the examples of dogs in this week include:

Cavalier King Charles
Springer Spaniel
Cocker Spaniel
Standard Poodle
Labrador
Whippet
Pointer/Lab Cross
Bedlington/Patterdale Cross
Irish Terrier
Sh*tzu
Jackapoo
Sh*tzu Cross
Border Collie
Wire Haired Dachshund - three at once 💕
Bouvier de Flandres
Groomers Fluffball

Check out the photos for what happens after the bath and facial, and before the final styling 👍.

Now time for a cuppa and my own facial courtesy of Hal and Simba…Rosie is zonked.

Hope everybody has a great weekend!
Lorrie x

05/06/2024

**Update - slot now booked - feel like there should be a prize for fastest response time of 5 minutes 😂**

I have last minute availability on Friday morning and have one grooming appointment left - this would be ideal for collies/labradors/cockers/sprockers or a small dog needing a clip. Alternatively nails/teeth or for kennel dogs - a luxury bath before home time. Please message me 📩 if you would like to book.

Lorrie x

04/06/2024

Something not necessarily grooming related, but as a Lab lover this really did make me laugh 😂.

A 28-foot-tall sculpture of a black Labrador relieving itself is currently installed on the side of the Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) in Newport Beach, California.

27/05/2024

No rain, so a great opportunity to do some desensitisation training work with Mr Scaredy Pants. Thanks to the ladies in the shop who made such a fuss of him 💕.

Hope everybody has had a great Bank Holiday weekend. Just a reminder, the salon is closed tomorrow and will be open on Wednesday x

26/05/2024

**Farewell and Thank You, SG! 👋**

The hardest part of being a groomer is saying goodbye, whether it's to pups moving away or crossing the rainbow bridge. So yes, I had a bit of a cry saying farewell to this gorgeous boy before his move. We had a fun play session before his last bath and trim and I’ll gloss over his paddock antics….😂.

**Admin Note:**

The salon is currently busier than a squirrel at a nut convention! Please be patient when booking. I highly recommend setting up a recurring schedule or booking your next appointment at the end of your current one. There's currently a 3-week wait for appointments unless your dog is at Beech Tree Kennels or needs nail or teeth care (there's also a waiting list for cancellations). If your dog is feeling the heat and isn't on a grooming schedule, stick to usual cooling methods and daily brushing to keep them comfortable.

Regular clients, if your dog doesn’t have the appointments booked out for the year, drop me a line and let's get those dates in your diary to make life a little easier. That way, you'll never have to wait 👍🐾

26/05/2024

Part 1 of 2:

If you are a Labrador owner, you’ll know shedding season is in full swing, and if you haven't yet been presented with your washing-up bowl (see pics), it's time to book in. Taking the hair home is not a requirement but does generate a laugh, I’m always happy to snap some photos so you can wow your friends and family 😉😂. Then again, you could always give it to somebody as a really special gift. Shepherd owners, fair warning: bin bags full of hair aren't as photogenic, but I’m happy to show scale with my size 4 feet or broom in shot.

Speaking of hair, ever wonder what happens to it? While some salons use commercial waste collection, we’re lucky enough to recycle on-site with compost. Dog hair makes excellent nesting material for birds and keeps slugs at bay. If you want to take some home for your garden (or maybe a unique gift for somebody 😂), just let me know!

19/05/2024

🏆🐾Competition Time 🐾🏆

My boy Simba is old, and quite rightly, sleeps a lot. His dreams must be wild – judging by the epic leg movements and squeaks! The other night, I turned into his personal bed while he snored away to the radio. I Have a Dream by ABBA came on, and I just knew it was his perfect theme tune 😴🎶🎹 - listen with your sound on 💕.

What's your dog's theme song, and why? Closing date for entries is next Saturday.

Comment below for a chance to win a tube of Orazyme teeth gel (highly recommended for those pearly whites) or a Paw Fizz treatment add-on at your next groom. The Paw Fizz treatment is fantastic for deep conditioning and cleaning those precious paw pads, especially for beach-loving and road-walking dogs 💕.

Lorrie x

18/05/2024

Hi everyone! Sorry for being a bit quiet lately – I’ve been busy with the big move. Taking a break from my Italian lessons (Ciao, Gino Banfield 😉) and focusing more on the large cappuccino in front of me and photos, so thought I’d share some behind-the-scenes moments/antics with you of what mid grooms (and fun lunchtimes) can look like.

These dogs have really captured my heart this week for a myriad of reasons. Some are elderly, some have been rehomed, some scared of the bath, nail trimming etc - but they have and will flourish due to the love, patience and compassion of their owners…and some homework from their groomer..👀📚

Stay tuned for the next post, especially perfect for Labrador lovers and dogs that shed. Also keep an eye out for an upcoming competition.

Hope everyone has a fantastic weekend!
Lorrie x