A local dog groomer has struck out on her own, opening up a new shop on Acton's Mill Street West.
Michelle Williams is the face behind Shampooch’D Dog Grooming, which offers care for pooches that runs more than fur-deep.
“I’m certified fear-free. When a dog is scared, I work with the dog to overcome the fear in a gentle, rewarding way,” Williams said.
“If a dog is hesitant to give me its paw, I will touch the paw to start out. And when they are OK with me touching, I give them a treat to help them associate.”
Williams’ grooming table can be raised and lowered, allowing older dogs with mobility issues to have a pain-free - and therefore fear-free - experience.
Once the dog is calmed and feels like it's in capable and trustworthy hands, the true care starts. Williams will bathe them, brush them, trim them, the works. Dog parents can request the untangling of matted fur, ear cleaning, nail clipping - with or without grinding.
In certain cases, Williams - a 25-year veteran of the industry - may be able to save owners a costly trip to the vet.
“I'm quite knowledgeable in nutrition and skin conditions for dogs because I see it all. So I'll make recommendations on whether we should use a medicated shampoo or something like that,” she said.
When the pampering is finished, parents can ask for a memento by booking a photography session.
Williams has always been, naturally, an animal lover. She entered into the dog grooming world in the mid-'90s when she answered a job ad in the paper for an assistant to a mobile dog groomer. This opportunity proved useful in, she says, “learning the ropes.”
She has competed in grooming shows, where one year she worked on a little Scottish terrier like Jock from the movie Lady and the Tramp.
Shampooch’D Dog Grooming, at 9 Mill St. W., is by appointment only and is accepting new clients. For more information, visit Shampoochd.com.
