Meg’s Paw Spa

Meghan-Leigh Smith is the owner and professional pet stylist at Meg’s Paw Spa, which has been in business for two years in Ontario. With 11 years in the grooming industry, Meghan has practised grooming and learned hands-on from an early age.

What can you tell me about your grooming career?

I started in the grooming industry right out of high school, bathing dogs. But, some believe it may have started long before that when I had a small business walking the neighbourhood dogs at the age of six.

I love creating a bond with each individual animal and the before/after transformation of each dog’s haircut is always mind-blowing, even after all this time!

What can you tell me about grooming in Ontario?

Grooming in Ontario is very basic, I would say. A lot of 3/4” and 4F blades with simple scissoring to finish for full grooms. And, I would say 60% of my client base is bath and tidys!

A lot of pet owners here want a clean and tidy pet with all the essentials included, like anal glands, ear cleaning, and nail grinding. Not necessarily a fluffy, full grooming package ,which I personally love!

What key differences have you noticed between groomers in Ontario and groomers in the UK?

Some key differences would likely be from a creative standpoint and show quality grooming is huge in Europe. However, people here want simplicity and just a clean pet in their house.

What are some key factors that you think UK groomers can learn from groomers in Ontario?

I think perhaps not grooming to ‘pawfection’, but to the pet owners’ version of ‘paw-fection’ always suffices in order to keep up with the number of bookings and demand for grooming.

I love making my clients (dogs and humans) feel special every time they come in for an appointment. I have an open-door policy, no hidden rooms. All the dogs are happy, and enjoying a true spa day.

Everyone leaves with an accessory and a polaroid photo, which I think makes it a special experience that they don’t necessarily get other grooming salons. Follow @megspawspa on Instagram.