Louise Rayner set up her dog grooming business, Wagglebumz, in June 2015. From the outset her love for the dogs in her care was paramount so, in addition to giving them a good groom, she always made time for play – sending each dog on its way looking good and feeling happy.
In a short space of time Wagglebumz was enjoying repeat business from a loyal and growing customer base, many of whom hadn’t had the best experiences of dog grooming in the past reporting their dogs to be traumatised by other grooming services.
Louise says, “For me it’s not simply about clipping and combing, I ensure every dog enjoys their time with me by giving them additional attention and plenty of play. My older customers in particular mean a lot to me and I’m happy to go the extra mile for them if they have mobility or transport issues.”
"My older customers in particular mean a lot to me and I’m happy to go the extra mile for them if they have mobility or transport issues.”
Many of Wagglebumz customers are elderly so for them their dogs are their primary companion, the cost of dog care is high on their pensions, and in addition mobility is a big issue. So, to ensure their dogs get cared for properly, Louise picks them up and returns them groomed and happy at no extra charge.
Wagglebumz also offers free grooming and clipping to dogs every year at the Waterbeach Fun Dog Show.
Her customers enthuse about all she does, here are a few testimonials…
“Finbar my Bichon Fries is very happy to visit Wagglebumz and see everyone. One day a gentleman approached us to ask where we had him groomed as he thought he looked the bees knees. I was happy to pass on Louise's details.”
“As a teacher it is difficult to fit in a visit to the dog parlour and on numerous occasions she has opened up early so I can drop them off on my way to school and hung onto them until I have finished teaching.”
“Fantastic! First grooming experience for my little dog. She was treated like a princess. Highly recommend!”
And Louise’s care for others extends beyond the dogs she grooms and their owners….
Louise qualified in dog grooming at the College of West Anglia and is actively involved in training new people in the profession. She currently has four college students and a professional planning a career change coming to her for training. Louise spends one-on-one time with all five every week - sharing her knowledge and developing their skills.
Wagglebumz was the regional finalist for the Small Business Big Heart Award in 2016 and we’re starting to search for entrants for the 2017 awards. If you’re a small business with a big heart complete our survey here.
