A dog grooming duo are turning their dreams into a reality by launching their own business.
Natasha Hill and Karen Bright will welcome their first furry clients on Monday at Long Barn Dog Grooming, located at Ashleigh Farm in Helmingham Road, Ashbocking, near Needham Market.
After being granted planning permission on New Year’s Eve, the new facility will provide quality grooming services in a unique spot — right next door to Nightingale Vets.
Natasha Hill with her dog Pippa. Picture: Long Barn Dog Grooming
Natasha, 43, said: “We just thought it was too good of an opportunity to miss, really.
“We have worked really hard on decorating and renovating the place — so we are very excited.
“We first looked around the premises in August, so its been a long time coming now.”
Karen Bright with her dog Spyro. Picture: Long Barn Dog Grooming
The friends first met six years ago at a puppy training class and later worked together to teach dog grooming.
Both Natasha and Karen said they have always had a passion for working with animals — especially dogs, as Natasha owns three dogs, Pippa, Holly and Rocky, while Karen has six, Spyro, Mina, Dawn, Freddie, Kieli and Isla.
Karen, 53, credits her dog, Mina, for inspiring the business venture.
While Mina was receiving treatment at Nightingale Vets, Karen was told about the empty unit next door and how it would be the perfect space for a dog groomers.
The business partners have been practising in the new site with their own pets while waiting on planning permission to be approved. Picture: Long Barn Dog Grooming
“It’s all come full circle,” Karen said. “In a way, Mina being poorly set us off on this path.
“I first wanted to be a dog groomer when I was 16. I went on to train dogs for a long time, and I worked as a civil servant for 31 years until I retrained as a dog groomer in 2019.
“My friends and family are all really excited for us — they know I am a bit ‘dog-mad’, and they know its something we will put our all into and make it a great success.
“We just can’t wait to get going and see how it develops.”
Being located next to the vet clinic offers significant benefits for the business as, in case of emergencies, expert care is just steps away.
Additionally, both businesses are in talks about collaborating on packages — such as pre-operation pampering or grooming sessions during recovery periods.
Once the business is more established, Natasha and Karen plan to offer training for aspiring groomers by drawing on their teaching experience.
For more information on Long Barn Dog Groom, you can visit the Facebook page by clicking here.
You can also book an appointment for dogs of all breeds, shapes and sizes by calling 07783 002791.