Experiences with her own dogs have led a young Hemel Hempstead entrepreneur to open a new grooming salon which focusses on natural products and treatments.
Ella Champniss, 26, launched Botanical Bark – the first dedicated dog grooming salon in the Old Town High Street – earlier this month, inspired by her two cockapoos, Phoebe and Maeve.
The 26-year-old has raised her dogs "as naturally as possible" - keeping them both raw-fed, using titre testing rather than routine annual vaccinations, and generally opting for "natural approaches first wherever appropriate".
“Seeing how well both of my dogs thrived with that approach made it feel like the obvious foundation for Botanical Bark," Ella said. "I wanted to create a salon that focused not only on how dogs look, but also on how they feel.
“That's why I choose natural products wherever possible. I believe grooming should be kind to a dog's skin and coat, particularly for those with sensitivities. Every dog is different, and having my own salon allows me to tailor appointments to their individual needs.”
Having completed an apprenticeship in Apsley, Ella stayed for eight years, eventually renting her own table in the salon which enabled her to build a client base, developing increased knowledge of different breeds and a wider understanding of each dog’s needs.
“At Botanical Bark, I offer much more than a standard wash, cut and blow dry,” said Ella.
“Every dog is treated as an individual, and each appointment is tailored to their coat type, temperament and specific needs. I work with everything from heavy shedders who benefit from thorough de-shedding treatments to dogs who simply need a bath and brush to keep their coat clean, healthy and comfortable."
Working with nervous or anxious dogs is one of her favourite parts of the job, she added, as some benefit from a quieter environment and calmer approach.
“I also love welcoming puppies to the salon," the 26-year-old said. "Their first grooming experiences are so important, and puppy introduction sessions are designed to be positive, gentle and fun.”
The Old Town community has been "incredibly welcoming from day one” she said, with dog owners equally excited to have "a local, independent business offering professional grooming services right on their doorstep".
Botanical Bark can be found at 35 High Street, with more information available on its website and Instagram page.
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