An experienced Bournemouth-based groomer is preparing to introduce a new style of dog grooming service aimed at promoting both physical care and emotional wellbeing. The upcoming Canine Wellbeing Retreat is believed to be the first facility of its kind in the South West and has been designed around a low-volume, welfare-first philosophy.
Wolf&Root founder Marie Brooker will officially launch the retreat later this summer. Services will blend traditional grooming with wellbeing-focused elements including gentle touch techniques, natural grooming solutions, nervous system support and extended appointment times intended to reduce stress for dogs.
Brooker says the idea emerged from increasing concerns about fast-paced grooming operations where appointment turnover often takes precedence over personalised care.
In contrast to many grooming businesses, Wolf&Root will see no more than three dogs per stylist each day. The limited schedule is intended to create a peaceful and supportive experience for both pets and their owners.
The retreat concept reflects Brooker’s wider beliefs about responsible and compassionate canine care.
“After more than 10 years in the industry, I have seen examples of excellent welfare standards as well as environments where speed is the primary focus,” she said.
“I wanted to establish a space that prioritises patience, understanding and trust. Dogs deserve an experience where their emotional comfort is valued just as highly as the grooming service itself.”
The Wolf&Root model focuses on reducing stress triggers and making grooming appointments more positive, particularly for anxious dogs, rescue pets, older animals and those that have struggled with handling in the past.
A strong emphasis is also placed on detailed consultations with owners, providing additional time to discuss each dog’s behaviour patterns, sensitivities and individual needs before treatment.
Brooker believes the market is shifting towards more ethical grooming options as awareness of canine wellbeing continues to grow.
“There is a much stronger understanding today of how stress can affect dogs and how different grooming environments contribute to that,” she said. “A busy or unfamiliar setting can be overwhelming. Our aim is to offer an experience that feels safe, calm and reassuring from start to finish.”
The launch coincides with wider conversations across the pet care industry about ethical grooming practices and the positive impact of low-stress handling methods.
Many professionals have raised concerns regarding overstimulating salon environments and the effects that demanding appointment schedules can have on both animals and staff.
Wolf&Root says its wellbeing-centred approach has been specifically created to challenge those industry norms by placing greater value on care standards than appointment volume.
Alongside natural grooming products and a deliberately reduced workload, the retreat has been designed to offer a setting that reflects the comfort and slower pace commonly associated with wellness services for people.
The company’s website, wolfandroot.com, is scheduled to launch on July 1, with bookings opening shortly thereafter.
Looking ahead, Brooker says her ambition is not only to expand Wolf&Root but also to contribute to higher ethical standards and greater recognition of emotional wellbeing throughout the dog grooming profession.