22 hours Ago
An 18-year-old from Sharples has started her own dog grooming business - despite how daunting it appeared to be at first. Libby Hodgkinson has worked with animals since she was aged 14, and would even give up time at weekends while growing up to work with them. She studied animal care at GCSE before the pandemic curtailed the course.
Read more: Bolton: Dog groomer who set up own business during Covid wins award Read more: Blackrod dog groomer back in business after shutdown Read more: Blackrod business to stop operating due to dog disturbance "Despite Covid meaning I didn't get the work placement on my course, I still wanted to experience working life," she said. One of Libby's happy customers (Image: Supplied) "Then, when I turned 16, my grandad passed away, which was really tough, but working with animals and being around them really helped." After leaving Sharples High School, Libby joined Eccles Sixth Form to continue learning how to treat and care for animals, while working at a cattery at weekends.
(Image: Supplied) Then, she became an apprentice dog groomer, completing a level two qualification in the field towards the end of last year. After then earning her stripes with a level three professional dog grooming diploma, Libby took the plunge and started her own business, Mutts Cutts, which she operates from a premises she shares on Tonge Moor Road in Bolton. She said: "It was quite daunting starting a business at such a young age, but my parents have been really supportive in helping me set it all up.
(Image: Supplied) "It's obviously a risk because if I don't turn up then I don't get paid, it's not like I'm employed." Libby offers services ranging from full grooms, nail clipping, teeth cleaning, and baths. Having grown up with two Staffordshire bull terriers, it's the perfect role for the teenager.
She said: "It's really rewarding, we get quite a few rescue dogs that have had bad experiences, we get them used to things and settle the dogs. "Some dogs will be heavily matted, but you can tell they are so much happier afterwards." You can find Libby at Mutts Cutts Bolton on 83 Tonge Moor Road.
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