With the Year of the Dog upon us and loyalty, honesty and intelligence the running themes for 2018, we have the pawfect read for you with our latest Client of the Month, dog groomers Woofkutzs.

If you’ve been feeling a bit ruff and need some canine news to calm you, check out the pupdates from our interview with head dog washer, Sandra Davis.

How did you get involved in dog grooming?

I grew up with dogs and they have always been a big part of my life. I had them in all shapes and sizes, from an Airedale called Lucy to Bassett Hounds and the odd Jack Russell.

As children arrived in the household we felt it was important to have dogs around as they were growing up. Owning dogs meant we were able to show and teach the children respect and kindness to animals, which is important for their own development. In 2015 Tadcaster’s (where we’re based) bridge collapsed, which made it increasingly difficult for me to get to my then work.

The struggle of getting to my job kick-started me into evaluating my life and thinking about what I wanted in the future. In the end, I took myself off for six weeks to train as a dog groomer. And the rest, as they say, is history!

What drove you to start the business?

The previously mentioned bridge collapse and the need for someone to groom my own dogs!

We had two Old English Sheepdogs at home that required a good groomer. I had rung around a few but wasn’t happy with their responses. I didn’t want my boys in a cage waiting to be groomed – I wanted a personal service for them. It turns out that other people want that for their own dogs too – and that’s the service I give! A one-to-one groom with no other dogs there but theirs.

There was also a market for another groomer in Tadcaster as at the time there was only one here – and they say a bit of competition is always good!

What’s your favourite part of being a dog groomer?

Meeting all the lovely dogs and their families and being able to educate owners in the needs of their dog’s hair. It’s always great to see a dog whose parents have listened and taken the time to ensure their dog is groomed – they often return knot-free!

I love the flexibility that dog grooming gives me. That’s not to say it’s easy – it can be pretty hard work at times! But I’m doing it for the dogs that visit and for myself, so it’s well worth it.

What are your top tips on looking after your dog’s coat in between trips to the groomers?

My main tip is to research your dog breed before you buy any dog and ensure you can cater to its needs. That doesn’t just mean being able to walk them but also look after their coat. If you’re unsure about a breed’s grooming needs you can ask your own groomer and they should be able to help you. Of course, one of the main responsibilities you’ll be taking on in owning a dog is being there to provide them company – after all, we don’t like it if no one talks to us!

Why did you choose The Accountancy Partnership?

I chose TAP because when I began the business as I was looking for advice. I spoke to a lovely man called Henry who was able to answer all my questions.

On setting up my business I had a daunting box of receipts to tackle, but with the help of my husband and Tabitha at TAP, I’ve been able to manage my finance and take control of the receipts!

Would you recommend The Accountancy Partnership?

Most definitely, no doubt. I’m looking forward to managing my accounts with their help this coming tax year.

What do you have planned for Woofkutzs in the future?

Giving the best to all my clients!