A multi-award-winning mobile dog grooming business has arrived in Carlisle.
Once upon a Dog is a mobile holistic dog grooming business that is owned by Alexia Payot and was started in 2021 when she was based in Worcester.
However, at the end of June, the entrepreneur and dog lover made the move to Carlisle and brought her business, which has won several accolades including an England Business Award, with her.
Alexia has loved dogs since her childhood in France and after moving to the UK in 2017, was determined to take up a canine-related profession.
She said: "I grew up with big dogs in my family and I always loved being around dogs more than humans to be honest.
"When I arrived in England seven years ago I became a waitress and I hated it and I wanted to do something where I wake up in the morning and don't feel like I'm going to work.
"I realised dog grooming would be perfect, but I wanted to be a groomer that treats the dogs amazingly and that is how I found holistic grooming techniques."
For Alexia, what sets her business apart from others is her focus on holistic grooming techniques, with an emphasis on the comfort of her dogs and building strong relationships with her clients.
She said: "Holistic means that we never force or push the dogs to do something they are not comfortable with.
"I work with energy and make sure that the dog is comfortable at all times.
"I use different techniques and teach the dog to really appreciate being groomed, some dogs are okay with it already, some are not.
"Being holistic is a lifestyle, I'm not only holistic with the dogs but also with the people. I never forget that we are all human and we are all going through something and you won't believe the number of people who want to share what is in their hearts.
"I create a real relationship with the people and the dog which is based on love and it is amazing.
"I also wanted to go mobile because I think so many people don't have access to transportation so it is easier, and some dogs are really scared of driving."
Alexia also discussed her first four weeks in Carlisle as she began to build a new base of clients and show people the benefits of holistic dog grooming.
She said: "I have been in for Carlisle for only four weeks and I have only amazing things to say.
"The people are adorable, they all have lovely dogs, and I love the city."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here