Holistic dog groomer a winner in Paphitis' awards
HandoutA holistic pet grooming business has been named a winner in awards run by former Dragons' Den star Theo Paphitis.
Wag-Wagatha Christie has been recognised in his Small Business Sundays (SBS) awards, and founder Vanessa Barber is due to meet Paphitis, next month.
Barber, who runs the business in Nantwich, told the BBC that after spending 20 years in education, she took the leap in dog grooming after the pandemic.
Following completion of her level three diploma in dog grooming and salon management, she said her tutor noted the calming effect she had on dogs - sparking her interest in holistic care.
The Small Business Sunday initiative involves entrepreneurs pitching their businesses to Paphitis on social media every Sunday evening, before he chooses six weekly winners.
'Icing on the cake'
Barber said: "As winner, I am now booked to a 20th February conference and Theo will be there.
"My business is based out of my back garden - I wanted the change after 20 years in education.
"The pandemic changed everything for me, when I had a horrific experience, ended up in hospital, and it was here I realised I wanted change."
Wag-Wagatha Christie promotes calm, compassionate, and informed grooming practices, helping dog owners understand grooming is a key part of communication, trust, and welfare.
"It was my husband's idea to transform the outside building in the back garden into a dog based location for Wag Wagatha Christie," Barber continued.
"This is the icing on the cake for a very successful year in getting the message out there about behaviour-led grooming.
"It's wonderful to see this approach gaining visibility, and I'm thrilled that SBS has recognised the importance of grooming in a way that puts the dog's feelings, learning, and well-being first."
Paphitis, chairman of Ryman and Boux Avenue, said: "We are thrilled to welcome new SBS members every week and highlight just how important it is to support our small businesses here in the UK."
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