— A Word From Our Groomer, Jess Derrett:

Hi, I'm Jess and I am the resident dog groomer for Hazel Valley Hounds. I have been grooming for a couple of years now. When I left high school I wasn't sure which direction I wanted to take. I always felt at my best being on my feet and taking a more creative direction in life. I have always been around dogs from a young age and always loved spending my time with my 'pack' (Archie, Connie, Cece & Buddy). My Cairn terrier, Connie, was one of the biggest inspirations for me to dog groom. She was very sweet natured, extremely hairy and very patient. She would let me experiment for hours, snipping away around her feet, brushing away knots and taking my time styling her face. In practicing on Connie, this instilled the dream and passion to take dog grooming as a serious pursuit. I ended up training at a dog grooming school to gain my City and Guilds Level 2 and 3 in dog grooming, and coming home to Connie to try my new equipment and techniques on her. I have worked at a couple of salons gaining experience before settling at the wonderful Hazel Valley Hounds.

Sadly, Connie passed away in 2023 at 13. She still inspires me every day and her memory lives on through my logo & my business. I owe a great chunk of my dog grooming to her; without Connie letting me take those first small steps with her, being so patient, I may never have gone down the dog grooming path, so for her, I am forever grateful.

I'm excited to see all your dogs, new and old clients, and continue to be inspired!

Jess X