About Me

Hi, I’m Emma — the owner and groomer at Plantation Paws. For me, dog grooming isn’t just a job; it’s a passion that helped me find purpose, strength, and happiness after one of the most challenging times of my life. After undergoing open-heart surgery in 2018, I was determined to rebuild my life doing something I truly loved — and that has always been working with dogs.

I’ve always had dogs and can’t imagine life without them. During my recovery, my loyal cockerdor, Mazie, rarely left my side — she seemed to know I needed extra care and comfort. That bond inspired me to turn my love for dogs into a new career. I enrolled at Myerscough College and completed my City & Guilds Level 2 and 3 in Dog Grooming, travelling over 80 miles a day to finish my qualifications. It wasn’t easy, but it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

With the help of my amazing husband, Chris, and our children, Eleanor and Stanley, we built my grooming cabin at our home in Plantation Bridge, between Kendal and Windermere. From there, Plantation Paws was born. I wanted it to feel welcoming and homely — a place where dogs could relax and enjoy being pampered rather than feel stressed or anxious. After five years, we outgrew the cabin and moved to our new parlour in Nether Burrow, where we continue to grow the business and have welcomed many new dogs and families. Clients often tell me that their dogs love visiting because it feels calm and familiar, and there is space to play and be free.

I currently have around 100 regular clients and am growing, and I treat every single dog as if they were my own. I also foster dogs through Cretan Animal Protection, helping rescues from Crete find their forever homes — something I’m deeply passionate about. My dream is to one day open a rescue centre so I can help even more dogs in need.

I’m fully qualified, canine first-aid trained, and insured, but above all, I’m someone who truly loves what I do. Plantation Paws has given me a new lease on life, and I’m so proud of how far it’s come. I believe everything happens for a reason — and for me, it’s led to a career filled with wagging tails, muddy paws, and endless love. ❤️

Emma

Ivy & Mazie