Nicky Cassidy
Helping pet pooches look their very best …
Lots of us enjoy the companionship of a four-legged friend, be it a cat or perhaps more commonly, a dog. As a writer, I find a lot of my inspiration for stories comes when out walking my own dog, a cocker spaniel who loves getting out and about around the north coast.
Whether you have a long or short-haired breed however, it’s important to take good care of their coats – and that’s where a good groomer comes in. As the owner of a rather fluffy-looking cocker spaniel, whose hair becomes thick and almost woolly without a good clip, I was therefore delighted when I found Debonair Dog Grooming Studio a few years ago.
Owned and managed by Nicky Cassidy, Debonair Dog Grooming Studio provides a wide range of professional dog-grooming services on the north coast, and relocated from Portstewart to Coleraine in October 2016. Now based over at Greenmount, Nicky, who’s been running the business for the past nine years, is fully insured and professionally qualified in grooming, as well as being an approved pet dental hygienist.
“I’ve relocated and settled in well,” she says. “Most of my customers have moved with me, which is really appreciated and I’m also taking on new clients on a weekly basis.”
Having previously worked at a local veterinary practice for nine years, which she thoroughly enjoyed, Nicky’s passion for animals and in particular, dogs, goes back to when she was a girl.
A dachshund after his trim.
“I always loved animals, especially dogs and I showed miniature wired haired dachshunds in competitions throughout Ireland and at Crufts,” she says.
It wasn’t until Nicky had her eldest child however, that the idea of setting up a business of her own arose.
“When I was off on maternity leave with my son Connor, I decided to set up my own dog grooming business,” she says. “I’m a perfectionist – super organised and clean – so I wanted to be my own boss. The main challenges I’ve faced is juggling the business with the demands of having two young children, and finding the right balance between the two. But I really have no other challenges. I love my job!”
Offering customers a variety of services, including a Face Tidy and grooming for small, medium and large breeds, Nicky also does doggie teeth cleaning and descaling. Meanwhile, there’s a Puppy Introduction Package for younger canines, as well as a Mini Groom option and a Nail Clipping service.
Meanwhile, clients can always be reassured that when they bring their dog to Debonair Dog Grooming Studio, they’ll be very well taken care of, with a friendly and reliable service guaranteed.
“I’m a perfectionist and work to a high standard of finish,” says Nicky. “I have a genuine love for my doggies and look after them all when they come to visit!”
What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve been given?
Do the very best work you can every day, concentrate on your own business , always be willing to learn something new and improve yourself on a daily basis. You are continuously learning.
Can you share your top tip for entrepreneurs?
Believe in yourself, put good research into whatever you’re planning to do. Work Hard.
What are your plans for the future?
To continue to provide a good service for my clients and their fur babies. Also, to enjoy spending time with my family.
What do you love most about your business?
The job satisfaction I get when I see a great groom and also, gaining a dog’s love and trust. Seeing them come in to me on their next visits, wagging their tails and coming to say hello is the best feeling ever.
A happy dog after his grooming session!
Debonair Dog Grooming Studio Coleraine: https://www.facebook.com/Debonair-Dog-Grooming-StudioGreenmountColeraine-1217164788357001/
Nicky Cassidy Groomer: https://www.facebook.com/debonairdogs.portstewart