AN award-winning pet groomer in Haydock is in the running for a national award – Cat Groomer of the Year – in the Animal Star Awards (ASA).

Laura Owen started The Dog House in August 2021 and she considers herself a pet stylist rather than a dog groomer.

The business was named Best for Pets 2023 in our search for St Helens' best in a wide range of categories last year.

The vast majority of her clients visit the salon for spa treatments but she also offers micro chipping, ultra sound scans and teeth cleaning.

She was nominated for the ASA’s Pet Groomer of the Year and due to the high number of entries, the judges decided to create sub categories and shortlisted The Dog House for Cat Groomer of the Year.

Laura, who is 32, said: “Cat grooming is one of many services I offer within my business, even though the majority of my clientele are canines.

“I get so excited when I get a new kitty client.

“It feels amazing that my services don’t go unrecognised and even making the final stages of ASA is something I never thought could happen.”

Laura bought her own dog at the age of 21, which was a toy poodle, Brandi.

She hadn’t really thought about Brandi’s grooming needs so decided to groom her herself.

She discovered that St Helens College offered a dog grooming course and decided to enrol.

Laura, who grew up in Rainford, said: “I like to call myself a pet stylist rather than a groomer as it feels more glamourous and imaginative and gives a luxury spa vibe.

“I offer all services related to pet grooming with a spa twist, which include full grooms, bubble baths and pawdicures as well as grooms and even teeth cleaning.

“I also provide spa packages which are additional treatments on top of the basic grooming needs.

“These upgrades include de-shed mud spa treatments, marshmallow and blueberry facials, and luxury shampoos as well as nourishing conditioning treatments and many more.

“I love creative grooming and some of my clients love a splash of colour on their pets, so much so that I am able to put my artistic flare into practise.

“By using pet safe dye and products I have dyed ears and tails different colours and created different designs.”

Laura has a degree in business management and has studied a range of business courses.

In recent years, she has had management positions and has also run a grooming salon with a team of five.

She said: “It has always been my dream and my ambition to have my own business from being a little girl.

“I never really knew what I wanted to do but knew I wanted to work with animals.

“My mum use to say I wanted to own my own boarding kennels when I was a child but I feel pet grooming is more suited to me, as I am able to express my creative flare and make pooches look and feel amazing!”

Laura added: “I am a one-to-one groomer, which means I only groom one animal at a time.

“This enables me to give my full care and attention to each animal and also allows them to be comfortable and relaxed and able to enjoy the experience.

“I use the best products and services to provide a special touch and luxury feel at The Dog House.”

A spokesperson for ASA said: “The Animal Star Awards gives recognition to animals and humans alike for the extraordinary things they do for one another.

“We also support chosen animal charities each year.

“Established in 2016, no other awards in the UK gives recognition to all animal sectors.

“The 6th annual awards are just a couple of months away for our southern finalists and will be held on Saturday, November 9 for our northern entries.”