If you have a hand-stripped terrier that’s also a show dog, you know how difficult it can be to go on holiday. Not just to find the time, because the shows are almost every weekend in the UK.
Why you won’t relax?
But also, you know that if you stop rolling the coat, if you stop maintaining the furnishings, the coat will blow. And then you get back from your holiday, all nice and relaxed, and boom! You can start on your hand-stripped terrier from scratch. And it will take weeks to get him or her ready for the show. And maybe you won’t even be able to relax! Because you know what will happen to your terrier’s coat, and you are already overthinking the work you must do when you get home.
And if you don’t have hand-stripped show terriers, then you have no idea what I’m talking about here. You may even think I’m being over dramatic. Well, I’m not.
Rolling the coat.

Keeping a hand-stripped terrier in a show coat takes much time and dedication. Weekly rolling – special hand stripping technique when we gently remove a top layer of the coat. This encourages the hair to grow and creates layers. It also helps to keep the hair short on certain body parts – called flat areas: head, ears, front, side of neck, shoulders, and back end. As we know, using scissors or clippers to shorten hair is not an option here!
Rolling has to be done weekly, sometimes even twice a week. Plus, regular weekly bathing and conditioning of the furnishings.
So, you know, when you go on holiday for a week or two, it will take some time to get the dog in good shape. And this thought will bother you while you try to chill on the beach. You know I’m right!
But here at Vita Canis, we have your back!
We are a family-run small dog boarding kennel in rural Uttoxeter, Staffordshire.
With love and dedication, we care for each dog’s individual needs. We understand dogs’ personalities, behavioural issues, and individual needs. We use enrichment games, aromatherapy, and a lot of personal interaction to ensure dogs enjoy their stay with us.
On top of all this, Zoe, who works at Vita Canis and is a terrier specialist, can keep your hand-stripped show terrier in tip condition while he or she is staying in our dog boarding kennels.
Zoe, the hand stripping specialist.
Zoe Oakes worked at Saredon Kennels alongside John Averis & Deb Ryan for almost ten years.
Over the years, she mastered the skill of hand stripping to the level that she was a vital part of the preparation of some of the top UK terriers for the show. Like Lakeland Terrier UK Int Ch Saredon Enigma ( Alan ) Crufts Terrier Group winner 2017, UK JP Ch Saredon Masterpiece ( Preston) UK top Airedale 2021; Irish Terrier Ch Turith Adonis ( Donnie ) Top terrier 2022 and Cruft’s Terrier Group winner 2022; Ch Holbam Ace of Saredon – currently top winning Irish Terrier; and many more.
How would this work?
With just six kennels, your dog will receive one-on-one care throughout the day, full of walks, enrichment, and outdoor play.
You board with us at the standard rate, and your dog’s grooming needs will be discussed with Zoe before the stay. And you can holiday with no stress while your dog is cared for and groomed to the highest standard. Additional charges will apply for the grooming work that your dog receives, and this will be agreed upon before their stay.
Do you feel relieved? Are you getting excited about your holiday?
Well, before you book your holiday, call us at 07928809992 to check our availability and discuss your dog’s needs. We are putting your dog first.
Rachel xx