Our Story
Bark Avenue Grooming was born from a simple belief: every dog deserves to feel comfortable, cared for, and confident after a groom. When Emma Richardson opened the salon doors over twelve years ago, she wanted to create a space where dogs genuinely enjoy their grooming experience — not just tolerate it.
After earning her City & Guilds Level 3 in Dog Grooming and spending years honing her craft at salons across the south coast, Emma knew it was time to build something of her own. She found the perfect spot in the heart of Brighton's Lanes — a bright, purpose-built salon with enough room for three grooming stations, a dedicated bathing and drying area, and a calm holding space where dogs can relax before and after their groom.
Today, Bark Avenue is home to a small but dedicated team of groomers who share Emma's passion for dogs and commitment to excellence. We've groomed thousands of dogs over the years, from tiny Yorkshire Terriers to towering Newfoundlands, and we take pride in knowing every dog by name. Whether it's Bella's teddy bear cut or Bruno's gentle bath and tidy, we remember the details — because the details matter.
Meet the Team
Emma Richardson
Owner & Head Groomer
City & Guilds Level 3 Dog Grooming, Canine First Aid Certificate
With 12 years of professional grooming experience, Emma founded Bark Avenue to create the calm, caring salon she always wished existed. Specialising in Asian Fusion styling and Poodle variants, Emma holds a City & Guilds Level 3 qualification and is a certified Canine First Aider.
Sophie Chen
Senior Groomer
City & Guilds Level 3, Hand Stripping Specialist Certificate
Sophie brings 7 years of grooming expertise with a particular gift for hand stripping and working with anxious dogs. Her calm, patient approach means even the most nervous dogs relax in her care. She holds specialist certificates in hand stripping and terrier breeds.
Jack Turner
Junior Groomer
City & Guilds Level 2 (working towards Level 3)
Jack is our enthusiastic junior groomer, currently working towards his Level 3 qualification. He's brilliant with bath & dry services and has a natural way with puppies experiencing their first professional groom. Jack's gentle manner puts both dogs and owners at ease.
Our Salon
Our salon features 3 fully equipped grooming stations, allowing us to care for multiple dogs simultaneously while giving each one our full attention.
We have a comfortable waiting area if you'd prefer to stay while your dog is groomed.
Our grooming area
Bathing and drying area
Comfortable waiting area
Qualifications & Insurance
City & Guilds Qualified
Our groomers hold City & Guilds Level 3 qualifications in professional dog grooming, the industry gold standard.
Canine First Aid Certified
Every member of our team is trained in canine first aid, so your dog is in safe hands at all times.
Fully Insured
We carry comprehensive public liability insurance of £5m, giving you complete peace of mind.
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