Guest blog, written by Freya Scott, owner of Fur By Freya, a local dog grooming salon in Ramsbottom.

Hello! I’m Freya and I’m a qualified Certified Professional Dog Groomer. In August 2025 I opened up my very own Dog Spa, called Fur By Freya. My salon is located in the heart of Ramsbottom, within Kay Brow Yard.

A bit about me and my background with Digs for Dogs…

Growing up I constantly pestered my parents to get a dog! As they both worked they were reluctant to commit to being dog owners. However, as their work circumstances changed and they were able to spend more time at home they caved and agreed to become a host family with Digs For Dogs!

Our very first dog arrived in 2016. We loved welcoming different dogs into our home and I soon learnt that every dog had its own personality – from the little lapdogs who just wanted endless cuddles to the larger, livelier breeds who filled our house with energy and fun. It didn’t take long for each dog to become part of our family. Walks, snuggles, and even their funny little quirks – like who claimed the best spot on the sofa – all created such happy memories. Hosting wasn’t just about looking after dogs, it was about giving them a safe, loving space while their owners were away.  

   

My favourite part was being able to look after so many different breeds of dogs from tiny Dachshunds to massive Golden Retrievers – I learnt such a lot about the various breeds. Regardless of the breed that came through our door, we always made sure that we gave them a holiday to remember – and at the end of it, they were handed back to their owners knowing that their dog was safe and had enjoyed their time with us! 

Looking back, I remember how excited I was to hear about our next lodger! Those hosting years played a huge part in shaping not only my love for dogs, but also the way I now care for them as a professional groomer.

Being a Host Family taught me valuable lessons that I still carry with me today:

• Every dog is unique – what works for one might not work for another. Some need reassurance and quiet time, while others thrive on play and adventure.
• Routine matters – dogs feel safe and settled when they know what to expect, whether that’s feeding times, walks, or grooming.
• Care goes beyond the basics – it’s not just about food and exercise, but also about comfort, love, and attention to detail. That’s why I offer 1-2-1 grooming in a crate free environment – cuddles and play are all part of their groom!

Fast forward a few years and after I left high school I began working in a grooming salon. I spent two years learning the ins and outs of bathing and drying, and picked up invaluable knowledge about behaviour and handling.  This experience allowed me to learn what it was like to work in a salon (especially at the very busy times!) and it also inspired me to learn more about the dog grooming world. I spent my college years at Hopwood Hall studying Animal Care, then I used the money I had saved from my part-time work to fund my place at the prestigious Canine Groom School in Howgill, close to Barrowford. 

That was such an amazing time – I met awesome like minded people and got to further my grooming skills, achieving my International Certified Master Groomer (ICMG) qualification early 2025.

   

These days, I also have my own Labrador called Rocco and he’s been a great reminder of just how big a difference regular grooming can make. Labradors are famous for their endless shedding, covering your home in fur clouds! Now I take him to my Dog Spa and keep on top of his coat using the right tools and techniques. I’ve been able to massively reduce the amount of hair in my home, which is not only cleaner, but he’s more comfortable as his coat is healthier and lighter, especially during the warmer months.

People often think that Labradors don’t need grooming when in actual fact they do. This breed (alongside every other double coated breed) have the same issue: their coats are so thick that they’re constantly shedding, not just seasonal shedding.

I’m so passionate about promoting the benefits of grooming Labradors that I’ve created a special day at the salon dedicated to this awesome breed! Labrador Sunday! Of course we will groom Labradors any day of the week, but Sunday is a day all about them, we live and breathe them, we get to pamper them all day – it’s possibly my favourite day of the week!

Today, I am the proud owner of Fur By Freya Dog Spa! My time with Digs for Dogs deepened my understanding of just how much trust owners place in those who care for their pets. That same trust is what inspires me every day at my salon. When a dog comes in for a groom, it’s not just about making them look good – it’s about ensuring they feel calm, safe, and happy throughout the process. I always take the time to get to know each dog, just as we did when they first arrived at our home as part of the Host Family programme.

I’ll always be grateful to Digs for Dogs for giving me the chance to have dogs in my life whilst growing up, and giving me lots of wonderful memories with my family and dog lodgers!

With over two years’ salon experience and a background as a Digs for Dogs Host Family. To book an appointment, visit www.furbyfreya.com or call 01706 619703. 

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