Laura Owen started The Dog House in August 2021 and considers herself a pet stylist rather than a dog groomer.
The business was named Best for Pets 2023 in our search for the best in St Helens across a wide range of categories last year.
Most of her clients visit the salon for spa treatments but she also offers micro chipping, ultra sound scans and teeth cleaning.
He was nominated for ASA’s Pet Groomer of the Year and due to the high number of entries, the judges decided to create sub-categories and shortlist The Dog House for Cat Groomer of the Year.
Laura, who is 32, said: “Cat grooming is one of the many services I offer within my business, although most of my clients are dogs.
“I’m so excited when I get a new kitty client.
“It was an amazing feeling that my services were not recognized and even making it to the final stages of the ASA was something I never thought would happen.”
Laura bought her own dog at age 21, a toy poodle, Brandi.
He didn’t really think about Brandi’s grooming needs so he decided to groom himself.
He discovered that St Helens College offered a dog grooming course and decided to enroll.
Laura, who grew up in Rainford, said: “I like to call myself a pet stylist rather than a groomer because it feels more glamorous and imaginative and gives off a luxury spa vibe.
“I offer all pet grooming related services with a spa twist, which includes full grooms, bubble baths and pawdicures as well as grooms and even teeth cleaning.
“I also provide spa packages that are additional treatments beyond basic grooming needs.
“These upgrades include de-shed mud spa treatments, marshmallow and blueberry facials, and luxury shampoos as well as nourishing conditioning treatments and more.
“I love creative grooming and some of my clients love a splash of color on their pets, so I’ve been able to put my artistic flare into practice.
“By using pet safe dye and products I dyed the ears and tail different colors and created different designs.”
Laura has a degree in business management and has studied various business courses.
In recent years, he has held management positions and has also run a grooming salon with five groups.
He said: “It has always been my dream and ambition to have my own business since I was a child.
“I didn’t really know what I wanted to do but I knew I wanted to work with animals.
“My mum used to say I wanted to have my own boarding kennels when I was younger but I feel like pet grooming suits me better, because I get to express my creative flare and make pooches look amazing !”
Laura added: “I’m a one-to-one groomer, which means I only groom one animal at a time.
“This allows me to give my full care and attention to each animal and also allows them to feel comfortable and relaxed and enjoy the experience.
“I use the best products and services to give The Dog House a special touch and luxurious feel.”
A spokesperson for the ASA said: “The Animal Star Awards recognize animals and people for the extraordinary things they do for each other.
“We also support selected animal charities each year.
“Established in 2016, no other awards in the UK give recognition to all livestock sectors.
“The 6th annual awards are just a few months away for our southern finalists and will be held on Saturday, November 9 for our northern entries.”
