About Us
Meet the Pack Leader - Mel
Hi, I'm Mel, and I've been running Hair of the Dog since February 2016.
My journey into pet care began in 2013 while volunteering at a local rescue shelter, and where I met Buster early 2014, a timid rescue dog who completely changed my life. As our bond grew and I began fostering him, I realised my passion lay in working with dogs. That experience gave me the confidence to leave my career in hairdressing and pursue dog walking professionally.
Before starting Hair of the Dog, I gained valuable experience working for established dog walking companies across London and Essex. When it came time to launch my own business, a friend suggested the name Hair of the Dog, a perfect combination of my passion for dogs and my maiden name.
Today, Hair of the Dog offers professional dog walking, daycare, home boarding, wedding chaperone services and pet care support. With over 12 years of professional experience and a Level 3 Ofqual Qualification in Canine Behaviour and Home Boarding, I am committed to providing exceptional care tailored to every dog's individual needs and routine.
Together with my husband Paul, we offer a genuine home-from-home environment where every dog is treated as part of the family. Being trusted with someone's beloved companion is a responsibility I never take for granted, and I feel incredibly lucky to do a job I truly love every day.
A little bit of yellow, a lot of meaning.
The yellow in Hair of the Dog’s branding holds a very special place in my heart. It was originally chosen as a tribute to a dear friend who sadly lost her battle with cancer. She was a passionate dog rescuer, and yellow was her favourite colour.
Over the years, the branding has naturally evolved into the softer, pastel yellow you see today, but the meaning behind it remains the same. Whenever you see that touch of yellow across Hair of the Dog, it’s a little reminder of her kindness, her love for animals and the inspiration she gave to so many.
Meet Buster
The OG of Hair of the Dog | Chief Welcome Officer | Professional Bed Tester
Buster is the heart and soul of Hair of the Dog and the reason this journey began.
Born around late 2011, Buster came into rescue in 2014 and was placed in my care as a foster dog. From the moment he arrived, we formed an incredible bond, and it quickly became clear that he had already found his forever home. In August 2014, I officially adopted him, and it remains one of the best decisions I've ever made.
Over a decade later, I still feel incredibly lucky to have him as part of my family. It's hard to believe that after all these years, the rescue dog who changed my life is still by my side.
Buster has a wonderfully calm and gentle nature. He is always happy to greet both humans and dogs and has helped countless visiting dogs settle into our home. Whether it's welcoming new daycare dogs, sharing a sofa with a boarding guest, or simply supervising from his favourite spot, Buster takes everything in his stride.
More than anything, Buster is the driving force behind Hair of the Dog. The experience of fostering and adopting him inspired me to leave my career in hairdressing and dedicate my life to working with dogs. Without Buster, Hair of the Dog simply wouldn't exist.
These days, you'll usually find him enjoying a snooze, keeping an eye on the household, or making sure all our canine visitors feel right at home.
The OG of Hair of the Dog | Chief Welcome Officer | Professional Bed Tester
Buster is the heart and soul of Hair of the Dog and the reason this journey began.
Born around late 2011, Buster came into rescue in 2014 and was placed in my care as a foster dog. From the moment he arrived, we formed an incredible bond, and it quickly became clear that he had already found his forever home. In August 2014, I officially adopted him, and it remains one of the best decisions I've ever made.
Over a decade later, I still feel incredibly lucky to have him as part of my family. It's hard to believe that after all these years, the rescue dog who changed my life is still by my side.
Buster has a wonderfully calm and gentle nature. He is always happy to greet both humans and dogs and has helped countless visiting dogs settle into our home. Whether it's welcoming new daycare dogs, sharing a sofa with a boarding guest, or simply supervising from his favourite spot, Buster takes everything in his stride.
More than anything, Buster is the driving force behind Hair of the Dog. The experience of fostering and adopting him inspired me to leave my career in hairdressing and dedicate my life to working with dogs. Without Buster, Hair of the Dog simply wouldn't exist.
These days, you'll usually find him enjoying a snooze, keeping an eye on the household, or making sure all our canine visitors feel right at home.
Why Choose Us?
Over 12 Years of Professional Experience
With over 12 years of hands-on experience working with dogs of all breeds, sizes and temperaments, I understand that every dog is unique and deserves individual care tailored to their needs.
Qualified in Canine Behaviour & Welfare
I hold a Level 3 Ofqual Qualification in Canine Behaviour, Welfare and Home Boarding, giving me the knowledge and understanding to provide safe, professional and informed care.
Canine First Aid Trained
Your dog's safety is always my priority. I am Canine First Aid trained, giving you added peace of mind while your dog is in my care.
Licensed Home Boarding
Hair of the Dog is fully licensed by Uttlesford District Council to board 7 dogs, meeting the standards required to provide safe and professional home boarding services.
Fully Insured
For complete peace of mind, all services are fully insured.
Truly Home From Home
Together with my husband Paul, we provide a child-free, home-from-home environment where dogs are treated as part of the family and their routines are carefully maintained.
Small-Scale, Personalised Care
I intentionally keep numbers manageable so that every dog receives the attention, enrichment and companionship they deserve.