Picture Ref: 78680-03/36POOCH pampering is no longer something just for prissy poodles.

Swindon dog groomers say they are permanently busy as more and more dogs are given makeovers.

Smartpets Grooming, in Pets at Home, on St Margaret's retail park, has seen a rise in both clients and inquiries.

Claire Coveney, manager of the grooming salon, said: "I think it has definitely grown in popularity. We don't need to advertise for any new clients."

Part of the problem is that only a few places offer suitable training.

"There really isn't anywhere in the area to do training unless you do a private course, and then it takes a long time to make back all the money you've already paid out," said Ms Coveney, who has worked as a dog groomer for seven years.

She was given on the job training in the pet store, where she started by learning to bathe the dogs.

"I worked towards a city and guilds qualification in dog grooming it's similar to what hairdressers do."

Prices at the salon, just off the A420 in Stratton near Gablecross, range from £16 for a small dog, such as a Yorkshire terrier, to £40 for a large dog like a St Bernard.

The dogs are given a rough cut, before being showered, combed, given a blow dry and having their nails cut.

And it still has a big effect when owners come to pick up their pet.

Ms Coveney said: "You get women saying things like 'oh doesn't mummy's baby look like a little Christmas tree,' while the blokes tend to be a bit more reserved and just say it's cool."

And in spite of getting wet and smelling like wet dog, apparently it is one of the best jobs in the world.

"I love my job, it you so much back from the dogs and clients," said Ms Coveney.

Ellen Kittley, owner of Top Dogs grooming salon in Moredon, said: "I'm always steadily busy. Most of my customers are regulars and they bring in all kind of breeds."

But she did not think there was a shortage of dog groomers.

Lackham College, in Lacock, is running a pet owners grooming course in October. For more information contact Lackham College on 01249 466800.

How to groom your dog

Grooming can bring you and your dog closer together.

To groom your dog you need a dog comb, bristle brush and chamois leather.

Brushing your dog's coat regularly keeps it healthy and encourages new hair to grow.

Regular brushing will also stop you, and your house, from being covered in hairs.

While grooming you should check for any changes to your dog's skin. This will help you spot any potential health problems.

When grooming a young dog, keep the sessions short and fun so the dog considers it a pleasurable experience and doesn't get bored.

Stephanie Tye