Carina is 46 and had already built a life around dogs before starting her grooming training. She was running a dog walking and boarding business, and before that had spent years in retail and retail management. But over time, she felt like her business had gone as far as it could.
“My walking and boarding had gone as far as it could and wasn’t really paying all my bills. I’ve always wanted to be a groomer.”
When she realised there was a course she could attend locally, it felt like the right moment to step forward and do something she’d thought about for a long time.
Training had to fit around real life. As a single mum, the school run shaped her days, so the 9:30 to 2 schedule worked naturally.
“Timing’s perfect. 9:30 to 2 fits my school run.”
Learning alongside other students played a big part in building her confidence. In the beginning, sharing dogs and working side by side made it feel less overwhelming. Gradually, she began doing more on her own, and that shift showed her how much she was improving.
One day in particular stands out.
“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 to say I’d had the best day.”
For Carina, it wasn’t just about learning how to groom. It was also about understanding what it takes to run it as a business - customer service, products, insurance, first aid, waste management.
“It wasn’t just grooming. It’s been everything… all the tools I need to run this as a functioning business at home.”
Now she’s ready for her next chapter. She’s setting up a purpose-built salon in her garden, complete with bath, table and dryer, and, as she proudly says, “everything’s pink.” She’s already chosen a name and has a couple of clients waiting for her to qualify and start.
Finishing the course has been emotional.
“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’d do the whole course again if I could. I’m proud of myself.”
She’s leaving with confidence, a plan, and a space ready to go.
This story first appeared on upperhound.co.uk.
