About Best Friends Pets
Calm, trusted grooming for dogs across South Manchester.
From Gatley Pets to Best Friends Pets
Best Friends Pets began many years ago in the heart of Gatley, long before it became the calm specialist grooming studio it is today.
Pam’s journey with dogs started as a teenager. After regularly visiting the local pet shop with her family dog, she eventually asked for a Saturday job — and immediately knew working with animals was what she wanted to do.
Over the years, Pam trained in animal care, grooming, canine behaviour and dog training while gaining hands-on experience working alongside respected local professionals. What started as a Saturday job gradually became a lifelong career dedicated to improving the lives of dogs and supporting the people who love them.
As her experience grew, so did her understanding that grooming should never simply be about appearance. Every dog has its own personality, comfort levels and emotional needs — especially nervous, anxious or rescue dogs who may struggle with the grooming process.
That philosophy still shapes everything we do today.
Why “Best Friends Pets”?
The business was previously known locally as Gatley Pets, but over time the focus naturally evolved away from pet retail and toward calm, specialist grooming and canine care.
Pam wanted the name of the business to better reflect the values behind the work — treating every dog with patience, kindness and respect.
The name “Best Friends Pets” was chosen because dogs truly are part of the family. For many owners, they are companions, emotional support and lifelong best friends.
Calm, Patient Grooming
We believe grooming should feel calm, safe and reassuring for every dog.
Our salon is intentionally designed to avoid the rushed, stressful experience many dogs encounter elsewhere. We take time to understand each dog individually, adapting our approach around their personality, confidence and emotional wellbeing.
For nervous or anxious dogs, patience is often the most important part of the process. We work gradually to build trust and positive associations, helping many dogs become more relaxed and comfortable over time.
Whether your dog visits us for grooming, teeth cleaning or specialist care, our priority is always their comfort first.
"We never rush nervous dogs — building trust always comes first."
Pam Rowley
Founder, Best Friends Pets
Personalised Care
Every dog is treated as an individual, with appointments tailored around their needs, temperament and comfort level.
Trusted Experience
Decades of hands-on grooming, behaviour and training experience focused on calm, compassionate care.
Specialist Support
Experienced support for nervous, rescue, older and sensitive dogs who need extra reassurance.
Trusted Across South Manchester
For many local owners, grooming is built on trust.
Much of our work comes through recommendations from long-term clients who value the calm atmosphere, patient handling and genuine care their dogs receive here.
We are proud to welcome dogs from Gatley, Didsbury, Heald Green, Stockport, Wilmslow, Handforth and surrounding areas — including many nervous dogs who have gradually learned to feel safer and more confident through regular visits.
We'd Love To Meet You And Your Dog
We’re always happy to discuss your dog’s individual needs before booking.
Discuss Your Dog's Needs