The Muddy Paw dog groomers have just opened up their new salon in Dobbies Garden Centre after choosing Andover over many more locations.
The family run business which started in Northampton 10 years ago has grown to be a success that opportunities to open more salons became a reality after owner James Rubython choose to open up in Andover. James told us “Over lockdown opportunities came up with Dobbies Garden centre. We looked at several locations around the country but Andover stood out for us and felt just right and is a great place to be”
James hasn’t always been a dog groomer, he used to sell motor boats around the world with his family business. After the family business was sold his passion and love of dogs lead him to become a dog groomer. James added “I love dogs and after the family business was sold over 10 years ago and wanted to try something different and my love for dogs got me here. I trained and opened up our first salon in Northampton 10 years ago”.
The new dog groomers based inside Dobbies Garden Centre have a real family ethos installed and go that extra mile to provide a relaxed and family feel environment James said “The success of what we have achieved is all down to the people we have working for us, the expertise of the dog groomers. Building a team that are loyal and share the same passion for dogs and their welfare.
“We are very aware that over lockdown people have got new pets and in particular dogs. Some people may not have the experience and we know a dog is part of the family and we want to become an extension of that family for pet owners.
“We don’t just want to be a place where you come, drop your dog off and collect later. We want our customers to get to know our staff, we will use the same groomers for the dog to create and build that bond. We are here to talk about everything dog related, whether that is to do with nutrition or skincare we’re here to help and if we don’t know the answer, we will help you find it”
James has installed a highly trained and caring team. Lead stylist Alex tells us “I fell in love with dog grooming at Sparsholt College where I trained and gained my qualifications. I have worked at a few salons and delighted to be lead stylist here. James has created a relaxed and calm environment which is important to the dogs especially nervous ones.
“If we do have a nervous dog, James will allow us to book out another hour so that we can really calm the dog and make him or her feel at ease. This helps us build a bond with the dogs and making a visit to the groomers an enjoyable one. We are here to provide advice to dog owners too”.
