Sensory Sessions

For dogs who find grooming overwhelming, Sensory Sessions provide a safe and stress-free introduction to the grooming environment—without the pressure of a full grooming appointment. These sessions are designed for the most anxious dogs who are not yet ready for grooming, helping them build confidence, trust, and positive associations at their own pace. During a Sensory Session, your dog can explore the grooming space in a calm, controlled way, with no expectation of being groomed. They’ll have the opportunity to engage with food activities and toys, as well as grooming tools, scents, and sounds in a gentle and supportive environment, ensuring every interaction is positive. During sensory sessions we can also begin introducing cooperative care techniques and cover any support you need with home grooming. Sensory sessions do not include any specific grooming, but if appropriate we can use the session to give your dog a positive experience of the sound and sensation of clipping and trimming.

 

Sensory Session include the use of food rewards and games, ACE Freework, handling activities, counter conditioning and desensitisation techniques, free-roam work, and longer introductions to grooming equipment. Sessions are helpful for dogs who have specific sensitivities such as paw handling, face sensitivity, or nail care.