Told through the eyes of a puppy, the book gives owners a unique insight into what grooming really feels like for their pets.
A Suffolk dog groomer has written a new book designed to help puppy owners prepare their pets for their first groom – and take the fear out of the salon experience.
Allison Pearson, 52, from Wetherden, has been grooming dogs for more than a decade. Inspired by the anxious puppies she’s met over the years, she created The Grooming Gap – a book that tells the story of Max the Cockapoo’s first trip to the groomers.
In the story, Max is confused and unsettled by the strange smells, loud noises, and separation from his owner Sophie – until she discovers the importance of a gentler, trust-building approach.
The Grooming Gap
Allison said: “I wanted to give pet owners a deeper understanding of what grooming actually feels like for a dog – and how to make it a positive experience from the very beginning. We wouldn’t leave our children at nursery without settling them in slowly, and puppies need the same kind of support. It’s not just the scissors and clippers – it’s the smells, the sounds, and being away from their owner. But if we break it down into small steps and build trust gradually, it doesn’t have to be scary.”
The book is filled with practical tips for owners, including:
- Brushing and handling exercises that can start at home
- Simple desensitisation techniques (like using an electric toothbrush to mimic clippers)
- Advice on finding the right groomer for each dog’s personality
- Breed-specific care, anxiety signs to watch for, and calming techniques
‘Makes a difference for life’
Allison added: “There’s so much to think about when you get a dog, whether it’s a puppy or a rescue. My hope is this book becomes a one-stop guide to grooming – helping owners feel confident, and helping dogs feel calm and safe. If we get it right from the start, it makes a difference for life.”
The Grooming Gap will be available on Amazon, priced at 99p for Kindle pre-order, with paperback copies available at £9.99 after launch.
