Absolutely Animals Ltd

Author: rex

  • Groom Team England 6th Place – Belgium 2024

    Groom Team England 6th Place – Belgium 2024

    At Absolutely Animals, excellence in grooming is a family tradition. We are bursting with pride to announce that Christine Anderton recently returned from the World Team Grooming Championship 2024 in Kortrijk, Belgium, where she competed as a proud member of Groom Team England.

    Following in the footsteps of our founder, Heidi Anderton, Christine took to the international stage to showcase the very best of British grooming talent.

    A Top-Tier Global Performance

    Competing against the elite from around the world is no small feat. We are thrilled to celebrate Groom Team England securing a fantastic 6th Place finish!

    Christine competed in the highly technical Poodle category. Known for requiring surgical precision and artistic flair, the Poodle class is often the most scrutinized by international judges. Christine’s performance was a masterclass in scissoring and shape, proving exactly why she earned her spot on the national team.

    The 2024 Powerhouse Lineup

    Christine was joined by an incredible group of stylists, led by Team Captain Lia Jayne Godding, who all demonstrated world-class skill:

    • Christine Anderton: Poodle
    • Jo Silk-Smith: Spaniel and Setter
    • Nancy Brincat: Purebred Scissor
    • Julia Fox: Handstrip
    • Louisa Tandy: Reserve
    • Lia Jayne Godding: Team Captain

    This 6th-place world ranking is a testament to the hard work, late nights, and dedication these groomers pour into their craft.

    World-Class Skills, Right Here in London

    The techniques Christine used on the world stage in Belgium are the same standards we uphold every day at Absolutely Animals. Whether she is prepping a dog for a global competition or styling a local pet in our salon, that “Championship” level of care is always present.

    groom team England - Belgium 2024 6th Place

    (L-R): Jo Silk-Smith, Louisa Tandy, Julia Fox, Christine Anderton, Nancy Brincat, and Lia Jayne Godding.

    Source

  • The Welsh Grooming Show

    The Welsh Grooming Show

    We’re absolutely thrilled to share some fantastic news – our very own groomer, Callum Anderton, has just returned from The Welsh Grooming Show 2026 with an incredible 2nd place finish!

    On Sunday 8th February 2026, Callum travelled to Cardiff to compete in this newly launched competition – his first time entering with Severn and his first grooming competition in the UK in over a year! What an exciting milestone for him and for all of us here.

    A Well-Deserved Achievement

    Callum’s 2nd place result is a testament to his dedication, creativity, and passion for the art of dog grooming. From meticulous styling to thoughtful preparation, his hard work truly paid off – and we couldn’t be prouder!

    Whether he was mastering his grooming techniques or supporting other competitors, Callum’s commitment to excellence shone throughout the day.

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    We’re Celebrating Callum’s 2nd Place at Welsh Grooming Show 2026

    We’re absolutely thrilled to share some fantastic news. Our very own groomer, Callum Anderton, has just returned from The Welsh Grooming Show 2026 with an incredible 2nd place finish.

    On Sunday 8th February 2026, Callum travelled to Cardiff to compete in this newly launched competition, his first time entering with Severn and his first grooming competition in the UK in over a year. What an exciting milestone for him and for all of us here.

    A Well-Deserved Achievement

    Callum’s 2nd place result is a testament to his dedication, creativity, and passion for the art of dog grooming. From meticulous styling to thoughtful preparation, his hard work truly paid off and we could not be prouder.

    Whether he was mastering his grooming techniques or supporting other competitors, Callum’s commitment to excellence shone throughout the day.

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    What Was The Welsh Grooming Show All About?

    The Welsh Grooming Show 2026 took place at the beautiful The Angel Hotel in Cardiff and brought together grooming talent from across the UK and beyond. Designed to celebrate skill, community, and industry growth, the event was much more than a competition. It was a full day of learning, connection, and inspiration.

    Here is what made the event so memorable:

    • Live grooming competitions across all levels, from beginners to advanced.
    • Educational seminars led by respected professionals in the grooming world.
    • Trade stands offering top products, tools, and accessories.
    • Networking opportunities with fellow groomers, students, and seasoned experts.
    • Fantastic prizes and awards recognising skill and creativity.

    Hosted by Wales’ own Master Groomer Charlotte Santini, this special event was designed to inspire growth, whether you are a newcomer, a seasoned competitor, or someone passionate about grooming. The atmosphere was supportive and full of community spirit.

    A Proud Moment and Just the Beginning

    Callum’s 2nd place finish not only marks a personal triumph, it also highlights the incredible talent and dedication he brings to every single day of grooming. This achievement inspires us all and we know it is only the beginning of even more great things to come.

    Please join us in congratulating Callum on this amazing accomplishment.

    Event Source & Info (for reference):

  • The Grooming Show – 1st Place Poodle Open!

    The Grooming Show – 1st Place Poodle Open!

    Congratulations to our hugely talented Tracey, what an incredible job! 1st place for an amazing groom, well done Tracey!

    “Thank you all so so much. I get so much support here at Absolutely Animals. My grooms are going from strength to strength with all their help xxxx “ – Tracey Beach

     

    “Super Job Tracey, so proud of you” – Heidi Anderton Owner of Absolutely Animals

    Tracey
    Callum-Tracey-1
    Callum-Tracey-2

    Sources:

    https://www.absolutelyanimals.biz/announcements/the-grooming-show-2026/

    The Grooming Show – Facebook

    https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1916050415900561&set=pcb.1916051129233823&locale=en_GB

    https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1880866722752264&set=pcb.1880866806085589&locale=en_GB

    https://goldenscissorawards.org/database/

  • The Grooming Show 2026

    The Grooming Show 2026

    January 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting month in the grooming calendar, and we’re incredibly proud to be part of one of the industry’s most respected events.

    Our talented groomers, Tracey and Callum, will be competing together in a poodle grooming competition at The Grooming Show’s 10th Anniversary, held in association with The Kennel Club. This is a fantastic opportunity for them to showcase their skill, precision, and passion for breed-standard grooming on a national stage.

    Adding to the pride, our company owner, Heidi Anderton, has been invited to judge one of the grooming events at the show. Being selected as a judge at a Kennel Club -associated event is a true mark of expertise and respect within the grooming community, and it’s a wonderful recognition of Heidi’s experience and contribution to the profession.

    About The Grooming Show – 10th Anniversary

    • Date: Sunday, 18 January 2026
    • Location: The Kennel Club Building, Stoneleigh (CV8 2LZ)

    Celebrating its 10th anniversary, The Grooming Show is a key date in the grooming industry, bringing together professionals, competitors, and educators from across the UK. The event features high-quality seminars led by some of the most respected names in grooming, including:

    • Colin Taylor – Pet Cockerpoo Trim
    • Vikki Pearman – Creative Grooming for Beginners
    • Costin Stoica – Grooming for Improvement (competition and judging insight)
    • Becca Moores – Poodle Top Knot Show Trim

    With education, competition, and networking all under one roof, the show continues to set the standard for professional grooming events.

    We’ll be cheering Tracey and Callum on as they compete, and we couldn’t be prouder to see Heidi representing our company in the judging ring. Events like this remind us why we’re so passionate about grooming, education, and excellence in our industry.

    Best of luck to everyone competing- we can’t wait to be part of such a special celebration

    Heidi Anderton
    Heidi Anderton Judge

    Sources:

    The Grooming Show – Facebook

    https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1916050415900561&set=pcb.1916051129233823&locale=en_GB

    https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1880866722752264&set=pcb.1880866806085589&locale=en_GB

  • Thank You 2025!

    Thank You 2025!

    As we celebrate another incredible year at Absolutely Animals, we want to take a moment to recognise the people who make our community so special.

    To our amazing staff:

    Thank you for your passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of every dog and cat that walks through our doors. For over 30 years, we’ve been proud to provide award-winning care in London – and it’s your experience, kindness, and love for animals that continue to set the standard in our industry. Whether it’s a full makeover, a gentle tidy-up, or supporting our students through hands-on training, you bring excellence to every single day.
    Dulce-AA-Team

    To our wonderful students:

    Congratulations on all your hard work throughout 2025! From beginners taking their first steps into grooming, to those earning City & Guilds qualifications, and professionals expanding their skills – your dedication shows in every groom. Watching you grow in confidence, technique, and understanding of animal welfare has been a joy. You should be incredibly proud of what you’ve achieved this year.
    Whether you trained in dog grooming, cat grooming, or both, you’re now part of a community that values skill, compassion, and continuing education. We can’t wait to see where your grooming journey takes you next.
    Here’s to another year of learning, laughter, wagging tails, and happy, well-cared-for pets.
    Thank you all for making 2025 such a standout year for Absolutely Animals.

    And a Very Special Thank You to Our Furry Friends

    To all the wonderful dogs and cats who visited us this year – Thank You for giving us a reason to do what we love every single day. You are the heart of our business and the joy behind our work.

    Every wagging tail, every gentle purr, every nervous first visit, and every confident return reminds us why we show up with passion, patience, and pride. From playful pups to dignified seniors, from curious kittens to calm, seasoned cats – you’ve each brought something unique to our grooming tables.

    Thank you for trusting us with your care, for brightening our days, and for letting us help you look and feel your very best. We are honoured to be a small part of your lives.

    Here’s to many more happy grooms, soft coats, fresh trims, and cuddly moments in the years ahead.

    cat grooming
  • School of the Year 2025 – Groomphoria

    School of the Year 2025 – Groomphoria

    We Are Proud to Announce: School of the Year 2025

    We are delighted to share that our company has been awarded School of the Year 2025 at Groomphoria, one of the United Kingdom’s most respected and vibrant dog grooming events.

    school of the year

    What is Groomphoria?

    Groomphoria is a two-day dog grooming competition and industry gathering held annually in the UK. Created by Cheryl Howard, Costin Stoica and Shelley Houghton, the event brings together groomers from across the UK and abroad for:

    • Professional grooming competitions across a wide range of classes
    • Special awards that celebrate technical skill, creativity and excellence
    • Educational seminars delivered by experienced judges and industry leaders
    • A formal gala dinner and dance
    • Exhibitor stalls and shopping opportunities
    • Free spectator entry, helping to make the event accessible to the wider community

    Groomphoria is more than a competition. It is a place where groomers come together to learn, connect and raise the standards of the profession.

    Our Award: School of the Year 2025

    Winning School of the Year is an exceptional honour. This award recognises training providers who demonstrate:

    • High-quality education
    • A supportive and encouraging learning environment
    • Consistent student achievement
    • A positive contribution to the dog grooming industry

    We are genuinely grateful to have been recognised among so many talented and dedicated schools.

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    heidi

    Heidi Wins the Leadership Award 2025

    We are very proud to announce that Heidi Anderton, Principal of Absolutely Animals, has been honoured with the Leadership Award 2025. This award recognises exceptional guidance, commitment and influence within the grooming industry, all qualities that Heidi has demonstrated throughout her long and distinguished career.

    Christine Wins Teacher of the Year 2025

    We are delighted to announce that our head groomer and tutor, Christine Anderton, has been awarded Teacher of the Year 2025 at Groomphoria. This recognition reflects her exceptional skill, dedication and long-standing contribution to the grooming industry.

    About Christine

    Christine has been involved in the grooming world since she was three years old, when she first began helping in a salon. She entered her first grooming competitions in 2010 and has continued to build an impressive career ever since. Her passion for animals is evident in everything she does, and she is highly skilled in grooming both dogs and cats.

    Christine has been part of Absolutely Animals almost from the beginning and has grown with the company year after year. Her commitment to excellence has seen her rise through the ranks of competitive grooming, ultimately earning a place on Groom Team England in 2023. She makes us incredibly proud.

    Today, Christine serves as our manager, head tutor and head groomer. She is fully qualified to teach and assess, holds a full City and Guilds Level 3 qualification in dog grooming and is also qualified to teach and assess the dog walking course. Outside of work she is the proud owner of three Standard Poodles: Etti, Kendra and Aria.

    chrstine teacher of the year

    Thank You, Groomphoria

    We would like to express our sincere thanks to the Groomphoria organisers, judges and team for recognising our work. The event continues to inspire groomers and strengthen the industry each year.

    We are equally thankful to our students, whose commitment and passion made this achievement possible. This award belongs to all of you.

    We look forward to returning for Groomphoria 2026.

  • We’re at Groomania 2025!

    We’re at Groomania 2025!

    Groomania 2025

    What is Groomania?

    GROOMANIA is an international event that highlights the craft and expertise of pet grooming. It brings together professional groomers, enthusiasts, breeders and pet owners from across the globe to take part in competitions and educational sessions. The event provides a distinctive platform where participants can demonstrate their skills, gain insights from leading figures in the industry and build connections with others who share the same passion. GROOMANIA nurtures a dynamic community committed to the highest standards of grooming, promoting the exchange of knowledge as well as the discovery of new trends and techniques. It is a celebration of the profession, recognising the dedication and enthusiasm that drive the grooming world.

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    Christine and Aria

    Christine and Aria

    Christine and Aria

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    Heidi and Sugar

    Heidi and Sugar

    Heidi and Sugar

    Christine and Aria

    Heidi and Sugar

    Absolutely Amazing!

    Road Trip!

    Heidi and Sugar

  • Watch the most relaxed dog at Absolutely Animals!!

    Watch the most relaxed dog at Absolutely Animals!!

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  • Start Your Dog Grooming Career with the City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate

    Start Your Dog Grooming Career with the City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate

    If you’re passionate about working with dogs and dream of a career in the pet grooming industry, now’s the perfect time to take the first step. Absolutely Animals is proud to offer the City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants (7863-02). This is a nationally recognised qualification that opens the door to an exciting and rewarding profession.

    Why Choose the City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate?

    This qualification is designed for anyone aged 16 or over who is looking to enter the dog grooming industry. It provides essential hands-on skills and theoretical knowledge needed to begin working as a Dog Grooming Assistant. Whether you’re working in a grooming salon, mobile unit, or planning to advance to full grooming qualifications, this course sets the foundation.

    What You’ll Learn

    Throughout the course, learners gain practical experience and insight into:

    • Preparing and grooming dogs prior to bathing
    • Bathing and drying dogs
    • Trimming coats to prepare for styling
    • Moving and lifting dogs safely
    • Maintaining cleanliness and biosecurity in the grooming environment
    • Professional conduct and communication
    • Introduction to breed characteristics and canine behaviour

    This qualification is also a prerequisite for progressing onto the Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming, making it the perfect launchpad for long-term career growth.

    Why Study with Absolutely Animals?

    At Absolutely Animals, we combine decades of grooming expertise with a supportive, real-world learning environment. Our professional team of instructors are qualified, passionate, and committed to helping every student succeed. Whether you’re new to animal care or looking to formalise your experience with a qualification that employers trust, this course is an ideal choice.

    Our training centre is equipped to meet all City & Guilds requirements, and we provide a wide variety of dog breeds and coat types for students to work with.

    View Courses
    city and guilds certificate
    city and guilds certificate
  • Senior Dog Grooming: What to Change as Your Dog Ages

    Senior Dog Grooming: What to Change as Your Dog Ages

    Recognising when your dog is “Senior”

    As our beloved dogs age, their grooming needs evolve. Senior dogs require a gentler touch, special tools, and a deeper awareness of their changing bodies. Grooming becomes more than just a beauty routine, it’s a form of health monitoring, comfort care, and quality time.

    In this guide, we’ll explore how to groom your senior dog with confidence, compassion, and care.

    Dog grooming Courses Absolutely Animals

    When is a dog considered senior?

    The aging timeline varies:

    • Small breeds: 10–12 years
    • Medium breeds: 8–10 years
    • Large breeds: 6–8 years

    But more important than the number is noticing signs of aging like:

    • Slower movement or stiffness
    • Graying fur around the face
    • Skin thinning or sensitivity
    • Changes in coat texture

    Why grooming needs change with age

    Senior dogs often face:

    • Dry or sensitive skin that requires gentler products
    • Joint pain or arthritis making standing difficult
    • Thinning coats or patchy fur growth
    • More frequent skin issues, lumps, or infections

    Grooming routines must adjust to keep them safe and comfortable.

    [products columns=”4″ orderby=”title” order=”ASC” ids=”2861, 4888, 3501, 4110″]

    Gentle handling techniques

    Grooming should feel safe and calming for your senior dog. Use:

    • Non-slip mats to reduce falls
    • Support under the belly for standing dogs
    • Frequent breaks if grooming is tiring
    • A calm voice and slow movements to reduce stress

    For arthritic dogs, consider grooming while they lie down or on an orthopedic surface.

    Tools that are senior-friendly

    Swap your regular grooming gear for:

    • Soft-bristle or rubber brushes for delicate skin
    • Low-vibration clippers to avoid startling your dog
    • Ergonomic handles for less hand strain (helps you too!)
    • Lukewarm air dryers instead of high-velocity blowers

    Tip: Keep tools within reach to avoid leaving your dog unattended.

    Bathing tips for older dogs

    Senior dogs often need less frequent bathing, unless they have incontinence or skin conditions.

    • Use lukewarm water
    • Choose fragrance-free, sensitive-skin shampoos
    • Avoid slippery tubs; consider a walk-in bath or handheld sprayer
    • Dry them thoroughly to prevent chills or hot spots

    Nail, Ear, and Eye Care

    Nails:

    Older dogs move less, so nails grow longer and faster
    Trim often to prevent posture problems or pain

    Ears:

    Check for odor, redness, or wax buildup
    Use a vet-approved ear cleaner and soft cotton pads

    Eyes:

    Gently wipe away discharge with a warm, damp cloth
    Watch for cloudiness, tearing, or squinting

    Dental care for seniors

    Dental issues are common in senior dogs and can affect grooming comfort.

    • Use soft-bristle toothbrushes or Cleany Teeth Brushes
    • Try dental wipes if brushing is too invasive
    • Watch for signs of oral pain like pawing at the mouth or bad breath

    Grooming as a Health Check

    Grooming time is the perfect opportunity to observe changes in your dog’s health:

    • New lumps or skin changes
    • Weight loss or gain
    • Signs of pain, lethargy, or discomfort

    Note anything unusual and speak with your vet. Groomers often play a key role in early detection of health issues.

    [products columns=”3″ orderby=”title” order=”ASC” ids=”4110, 3416, 3430″]

    Final thoughts: Grooming with Love and Patience

    Grooming your senior dog isn’t just about looks, it’s about comfort, dignity, and bonding. These sessions become more than routine; they’re a way to say, “I see you, I care for you, and I’m here for you.”

    Make grooming a gentle ritual filled with calm energy and positive reinforcement. Your dog may be slowing down, but their need for care and love remains as strong as ever.