top of page
468864200_2412816299060998_75955923764367365_n.jpg

Hello

Hi, I’m Charmaine — a qualified AIM Level 3 dog groomer with a lifelong passion for dogs and their wellbeing. My journey into grooming began when I put my name on a waiting list for a poodle puppy and realised how much I wanted to create a more fulfilling, hands-on career. After years in a traditional 9-to-5 job, I made the leap into the world of canine care — and I’ve never looked back.

  • Facebook
  • Whatsapp

My Story

My love of dogs began in 1993 with Lady, our family’s Springer Spaniel. I spent countless hours in the garden building makeshift agility jumps and cheering her on — the start of a lifelong passion for canine companionship. Since then, I’ve shared my life with a Scottie named Fergie, a Yorkie named Henry (who could bark with his mouth closed!), my poodle Ziggy, and Teddy — my gentle, lop-sided muse for Tidy Ted’s. Each dog has shaped my understanding of care, patience, and the joy of building trust.

​

In 2016, I began volunteering at a local dog training school, where I discovered how much I loved helping dogs and their owners build stronger relationships. That experience led me to pursue formal education in dog behaviour, and in 2020 I became a proud member of the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT). I maintain my membership through annual Continued Professional Development, staying up to date with the latest scientific research in canine welfare and behaviour. This commitment ensures that every dog I work with receives care that’s not only kind, but informed.

 

My grooming journey began thanks to Ziggy, my miniature poodle, who inspired me to leave a 9-to-5 job that no longer fulfilled me. I retrained and earned my AIM Level 3 qualification in dog grooming, combining my behavioural knowledge with hands-on care. Today, I run a quiet, one-dog-at-a-time salon designed to reduce stress and give each dog the time and space they need to feel safer and more relaxed than in a traditional Salon setting. 

​

I specialise in tailoring each session to their individual needs. I use gentle handling techniques, reward-based approaches, and clear communication with owners to ensure everyone feels confident and supported. Whether I’m grooming a show-ready spaniel or a rescue pup who’s still learning to trust, my goal is always the same: to make grooming as positive and enriching as possible.

​

Dog owners often ask about my approach to safety, handling, and communication — and I welcome those questions. I believe transparency builds trust. I’m happy to walk you through my grooming process, and share tips for coat care between appointments. 

​

If you’re looking for a groomer who sees your dog as an individual — not just a coat to be clipped — I’d love to welcome you to Tidy Ted’s.

My Dogs

Teddy is a 15-year-old rescue terrier cross with a heart of gold. Since an operation in 2013, his hearing has gradually decline, and he is now completely deaf. He also lives with vision loss, arthritis, and vestibular disease, which gives him a charming, slightly lop-sided gait. But none of that dims his spirit. He's still thriving in training classes and recently earned his APDT Foundation Award. Teddy has taught me more about resilience, joy and the quiet strength of compassionate care than I could ever imagine. 

​

Ziggy is my three-year-old miniature poodle. He's a bundle of energy and enthusiasm. He takes part in Hoopers and Tricks and recently qualified in his first Level 1 ScentWork UK Trial. His growing list of achievements includes Bronze and Silver Kennel Club Good Citizen Awards as well as Foundation, Improver, Intermediate and Advanced APDT Awards.

bottom of page