Dog Grooming & Pampering with Lucia Carne – Podcast Episode
Dog Grooming & Pampering – Muddy Paws Podcast
Dog grooming has grown into a booming industry in recent years, particularly during the pandemic when many households welcomed new “lockdown puppies.” In a recent episode of the Muddy Paws Insurance Podcast, host Dawn Cross spoke with Lucia Khan, director of Uptown Dog, about her journey into dog grooming, the realities of running a pet business, and the grooming mistakes many dog owners make.
Lucia’s story shows how a passion for animals, combined with determination, can turn an unexpected career change into a thriving business.
Starting a Business in the Middle of a Pandemic
Lucia Carne didn’t originally plan to become a dog groomer. For eight years, she worked as a flight attendant before deciding she needed a new direction.
“It got to the point where I couldn’t really handle the time difference anymore in long flights, and it was getting very tiring,” she explained.
Her inspiration came from an unlikely source—her sister’s dog. Seeing how happy and well-kept the dog looked after grooming appointments sparked her curiosity about the craft.
Initially, Lucia planned to open a grooming business and hire professionals rather than groom herself. But encouragement from her mother changed her mind.
“My mum was like, ‘Well, why don’t you do the grooming?’ I was a bit apprehensive at first because I thought I wouldn’t be good enough.”
Instead of easing into the profession slowly, Lucia committed fully. She completed both Level 2 and Level 3 grooming qualifications while still working as cabin crew.
By January 2020, she had launched her own business—just as the world was entering lockdown.
Surprisingly, the timing worked in her favour. As she put it:
“Everyone got lockdown puppies… and my business kind of flourished from then.”
Lucia initially worked from her bathroom at home with basic equipment while also gaining experience in a local grooming salon. After juggling three jobs for over a year, she finally focused on her own business full-time.
Today, Uptown Dog operates from a shop in Greenwich, London, with a growing team of groomers and retail staff.
Growing a Dog Grooming Brand
What began as a small home-based operation has expanded significantly. Lucia now runs a full grooming salon alongside a boutique pet shop selling treats, toys and accessories.
The team includes multiple groomers, an apprentice and shop staff — something Lucia admits was initially intimidating.
“Taking on my first employee was scary… there are extra rules and legal rights. It was a completely new side of business for me.”
Despite the challenges, the supportive dog community in Greenwich has helped the business grow quickly.
“There’s a very big dog community here… plenty of doggies and lots of friends,” Lucia said.
The Grooming Mistake Many Owners Make
One of the biggest problems Lucia sees in the salon is something simple: scheduling.
Many dog owners forget to book grooming appointments in advance, particularly during busy periods like summer and Christmas.
“I would always say: book your next appointment. At least you’ve got something to avoid disappointment.”
This is especially important for popular “doodle” breeds such as cockapoos and cavapoos, which can mat easily if their coats aren’t maintained.
Regular grooming appointments every six to eight weeks can help prevent painful matting and maintain coat health.
Lucia explains that severe matting often leaves groomers with only one humane option:
“It ends up with having to shave them down… it’s not what we like to do, but sometimes that’s the only option.”
Why Grooming Is About More Than Appearance
Another common misconception is that grooming is purely cosmetic. In reality, it plays an important role in a dog’s health.
Regular brushing improves circulation and removes debris trapped in the coat, while nail trimming prevents joint strain.
“If their nails aren’t clipped properly, that has an issue on their joints because they’re walking funny on their paws.”
Grooming also helps dogs regulate body temperature—something many owners misunderstand.
For example, shaving double-coated breeds like huskies or Pomeranians can actually make them hotter, not cooler.
“People think shaving will make them cooler, but actually, you’re having the opposite effect.”
Instead, proper grooming removes dead undercoat while preserving the dog’s natural insulation system.
The Joy of Working With Dogs
For Lucia, the most rewarding part of the job is building relationships with both the dogs and their owners.
She’s watched many of her regular clients grow from puppies into adult dogs since starting the business.
“I’m growing with the dogs… I’ve had them since puppy, and now they’re five. I can’t believe where the time’s gone.”
Of course, the job also comes with some hilarious moments.
Lucia shared one particularly memorable grooming session involving a very enthusiastic dog and a well-timed song on the radio.
“The dog was trying to hump on the table… and the song ‘Shake, Shake, Shake’ came on. He was literally humping in time with the music. We were crying with laughter.”
Advice for Aspiring Dog Groomers
For anyone considering a career in the pet industry, Lucia has simple advice: go for it.
She emphasises the importance of proper training and understanding the responsibility that comes with caring for someone’s pet.
“My dog is my child, so you’re looking after someone’s child. Get all the training you need and make sure you know the ins and outs.”
While the job can be challenging, Lucia says the rewards make it worthwhile.
“I went from spending my days with 400 people on a plane to spending my days with everyone’s dogs… it’s such a rewarding career.”
Final Thoughts
Lucia Khan’s journey from flight attendant to dog grooming entrepreneur highlights how passion and persistence can transform a career.
What started in a bathroom during lockdown has grown into a bustling London grooming salon and boutique — and a community hub for local dog lovers.
Her key message for dog owners is simple: regular grooming isn’t just about keeping dogs looking good — it’s essential for their health, comfort and happiness. 🐾
You can check out Lucia’s Grooming Business Uptown Dog here: https://www.theuptowndog.co.uk/
Listen to the full Podcast Episode here: https://muddy-paws-podcast.castos.com/episodes/dog-grooming-pampering
