First splash near Willow Ridge.
A gentle introduction to the tub, the dryer and us, at their pace. For puppies, rescue pets and anyone a little nervous.

For pets from Willow Ridge.
A gentle first splash for new puppies.
A first splash is all about making the salon a happy place. It’s a shorter visit with lots of breaks, treats and praise, where your pet meets us, hears the dryer, has a little bath and gets used to being handled.
For puppies, starting early makes every future groom easier. For older pets who’ve had a bad experience somewhere else, we go even slower and let them set the pace.
You can also pop in before the first splash for a quick hello with no groom at all. Sniff the tub, meet the team and go home with a treat.
The visit
A first splash, bubble by bubble.
Say hello
Lots of sniffing and a treat or two.
Meet the tub
A little warm water and plenty of praise.
Hear the dryer
Quietly at first, from a distance.
A gentle tidy
Face and feet, only if they’re happy.
Home happy
We stop on a good note, always.
Every newcomer
Planned around who they are.

Puppies
Short and sweet, so their first memory of grooming is a happy one.
Rescue pets
Tell us what you know of their past. We’ll go slowly.
Nervous pets
Breaks, treats and a quieter time of day.
Older pets
Gentle handling and a soft mat to stand on.
Getting ready at home.
A little practice at home goes a long way. Gently touch their paws, ears and face each day, with a treat after. Let them hear a hairdryer on low from across the room. Short, happy sessions build confidence.
Tell us about anything that worries them, like loud noises, being lifted or their feet being touched. We’ll plan the first splash around it.
Bring along
- Their favourite treats
- Their lead and collar or harness
- Notes on what worries them
- A favourite toy, if it helps
Coming from Willow Ridge.
A few things that make drop-off and pickup easy.
Shedding season
A deep wash and de-shed takes loads of loose coat out.
No shaving
We de-shed double coats rather than shaving them.
Big dogs welcome
Plenty of room in the tub and a ramp up.
Bath time?
Tell us about their coat, their last groom and the finish you have in mind. We’ll plan their visit with you.


