💔 When a Dog Moves Away: Saying Goodbye to Charlie

Today was my last appointment with Charlie, one of my very first clients when I opened Coat Care Canine Spa. She’s a sweet, nervous doodle who has been with me since she was just a pup and now she’s moving out of state with her family.

I’ve groomed Charlie through every phase of her life: From her first-ever puppy trim to full haircuts ranging anywhere from shaved-down resets to long, fluffy 2-inch styles. We’ve tried it all and every time, we found what worked best for her.

🐾 A Grooming Journey Built on Trust

Charlie’s grooming journey hasn’t always been easy. She’s a sensitive soul, one of those dogs that pants heavily, sometimes poops from nerves, and needs extra time and reassurance. But that didn’t make me love her any less, it made me love her more.

Her mom and I worked together to give her the best experience possible. And over time, I learned exactly what she liked, what she didn’t, and most importantly when to slow down or stop.

That kind of understanding doesn’t happen overnight. It’s built with consistency, patience, and a whole lot of love.

💙 It Hurts to Say Goodbye

Letting go of a client like Charlie is hard, not just professionally, but emotionally. We’ve been through a lot together. And while I’m excited for her next chapter, my heart feels a little heavy today.

I hope her new groomer is kind, gentle, and patient. I hope they read her body language closely. I hope they put her comfort and safety above the haircut because that’s what she deserves.

And I believe they will.

🐶 Every Dog Is a Story

Charlie reminds me that grooming isn’t just about making dogs look cute. It’s about building trust. It’s about creating safe spaces for dogs who feel unsure, and it’s about learning how to meet each dog exactly where they are, emotionally and physically.

Some dogs jump onto the table wagging. Others need extra time, space, and understanding. And that’s okay.

Every dog is a story. Charlie’s was a beautiful one and I’m so honored I got to be part of it.

Charlie, if you’re reading this (or sniffing it), I miss you already. Thank you for letting me love you through the scary stuff, the messy stuff, and the fluffy stuff.

— Veronica

Coat Care Canine Spa

📍 Schaumburg, IL

Gentle grooming for the dogs that need it most