After qualifying as a dog groomer over 17 years ago, Amy-Louise took an eight-year break from the grooming industry. During that time, she found herself working as a dental nurse, a job she enjoyed and excelled at. However, despite the stability and structure, something was missing.
“Whilst I did enjoy dental nursing, there was always something missing, a niggling that I just couldn’t put my finger on.”
Working through the global pandemic strengthened Amy-Louise’s resilience and adaptability, but her passion for working with dogs never went away. That passion eventually led her back to grooming, and a whole new chapter of opportunity.
Returning to Grooming
In the summer of 2025, now in her early 40s, Amy-Louise decided to take a leap of faith. After a difficult period with jobs, she spotted a dog grooming position advertised at a local doggy day care centre.
“I thought, well why not? I do have the qualification and the experience, I just might be a little rusty!”
She applied, interviewed, and was offered a trial groom as part of the hiring process. Although the trial took longer than expected, her skill and attention to detail shone through.
A few weeks later, she received the news she’d been hoping for, she got the job! The centre offered her an employed position initially, with the exciting future option to become self-employed and work from the space independently.
“It’s quite exciting, but also scary at this later stage in my life.”
Discovering the Emmi-Pet Opportunity
The day care centre already offered the Emmi-Pet Ultrasonic Toothbrush service and introduced Amy-Louise to the basics. But with her background as a qualified dental nurse, she quickly realised how her existing knowledge could elevate the service.
Inspired, she decided to invest in herself — enrolling in the Emmi-Pet training course with Emma at Ultra Clean Canine.
“I 100% recommend these courses if you’ve been thinking about offering the Emmi-Pet in your salon. I hold a qualification as a human dental nurse and found this course really interesting — a lot of my skills and knowledge are transferable. I can’t wait to start offering the Emmi-Pet service in my salon!”
From Training to First Clinic Success
Completing the Ultra Clean Canine Emmi-Pet training was the first step toward Amy-Louise’s goal of becoming self-employed. The course gave her the confidence, skills, and understanding to launch her own Emmi-Pet service, blending her dental expertise with her love for animals.
Shortly after finishing the course, Amy-Louise set up her first Emmi-Pet clinic at Purdy’s Pet Shop at the beginning of November 2025. Within just a few days, she had already welcomed five new clients for their initial consultations and desensitisation sessions.
“Doing the Emmi-Pet training is the first step to becoming self-employed. The course has definitely opened up more opportunities for me and my fledgling business.”
She’s now documenting each client’s journey and progress, the early feedback has been fantastic.
A Bright Future Ahead
Amy-Louise’s story is a wonderful example of how the right training, combined with passion and determination, can open doors to new opportunities — even after a career break.
Her journey back into grooming, supported by her Emmi-Pet training, has reignited her confidence and helped her lay the foundations for a successful, independent future in the pet care industry.
“Training with Emma at Ultra Clean Canine was the best choice of 2025. It’s given me the knowledge, support, and motivation I needed to take the next big step in my career.”