FDM Retreat and Academy Reviews

FDM Retreat and Academy rating: 5.0 out of 5 from 25 reviews

5.0 | 25 total

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5 stars

25 pcs

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What customers say about FDM Retreat and Academy

Recent reviews

Laura O’Reilly 2026.07.09

I honestly can’t recommend FDM Retreat & Academy enough! Completing the 30-day dog grooming and salon management qualification with Kara and Kayleigh has been life-changing for me. From day one, Kara made me feel welcome and supported. She is so knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely passionate about helping her students succeed. No question was ever too much, and she always took the time to explain things and build my confidence. The course gave me so much hands-on experience, and I finished feeling fully prepared to start my own dog grooming business which I have. I never imagined I’d leave with the confidence and skills to work for myself, but thanks to Kara’s excellent teaching and encouragement, I have. She is still supporting me even after finishing the course. If you’re thinking about a career in dog grooming, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend FDM Retreat & Academy. It’s been one of the best investments I’ve ever made, and I’m so grateful to Kara and Kayleigh. Thank you for everything!

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Carrie Robinson 2026.06.26

Friendly staff and always do a good job.

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Kellie Gower 2026.06.09

If you're looking for grooming education, this needs to be your first choice! I attended a course here and came away with so much knowledge and inspiration to do right by my clients! As groomers, we should never stop learning, and Kara and Kayleigh are amazing educators. Their passion for the industry shines through, and it's clear how much they genuinely care about both their students and the dogs they work with. Tag teaming theory and practical training, they are a proper Chuckle-Brothers duo who will make you leave with your cheeks hurting! The academy itself is an incredible set-up – professional, welcoming, and a fantastic environment to learn in, whether you're completely new to grooming or looking to further your knowledge as an experienced groomer. I'm well and truly suckered in, looking at booking more courses to see them again, and they offer some incredible guest seminars routinely too! If you're thinking about starting your grooming journey or expanding your skills or knowledge, I honestly couldn't recommend them highly enough.

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Samantha Dominique 2026.06.01

Rory came out looking amazing. I could tell he had been well looked after and there were no signs of him being stressed. Thank you

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Daniel Drewery 2026.05.06

I booked my Yorkshire Terrier in for a student groom at FDM Academy and honestly couldn’t be happier with the experience. The booking process was simple and straightforward, which made everything even easier. What really stood out was the quality of the work you can tell the students are being trained to a really high standard. Huge credit to Kara for creating such a supportive and skilled environment. They even went along with my slightly unusual request for a mullet cut and absolutely nailed it! Such a fantastic experience overall. I’d highly recommend

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Kev Adams-wallis 2026.04.21

My Terrier has been going to FDM since the daycare started back in January. I can't fault Kayleigh, Kara or any of the staff, who have been outstanding. My dog is very happy there, gets lots of exercise, attention and care, plus always comes home happy and tired! Definitely give FDM a call for any daycare or grooming, you won't be disappointed. Thanks FDM!

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Lizzie Reeve 2026.03.23

Just WOW!! This is the crème de la crème of Doggy Daycare! Kara and her team are incredible. The induction is so thorough so they really get to know your dog and what makes them tick. The centre is immaculate and they’ve thought of every last detail: I particularly love the ‘comfy’ room with arm chairs, flame effect fire and TV - a real pooch home from home! My pup is on the older side (nearly 10) and I feel like he’s having the opportunity to really enjoy his later life and still find the puppy within!! I can’t recommend FDM Academy highly enough x

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Pauline Spinks 2026.03.18

Just used this academy for grooming my yorkshire Fudge. I can not complement them enough. Friendly , cheap and an excellent job done. She looks like a different dog. Will happy use again and reccommend them.

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Reply from FDM Retreat and Academy 2026.03.23

Thank you for your lovely review, Pauline! We are so pleased that you are happy with Fudge’s groom and look forward to welcoming Fudge back soon! 🐶✂️🐩
Kayleigh & Kara 🐾

B H 2026.02.22

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Reply from FDM Retreat and Academy 2026.03.23

Thank you for your lovely star rating! 🐶✂️🐩
Kayleigh & Kara 🐾

laura b 2026.02.15

I attended the FDM retreat today and had amazing experience with Julie Harris . I have learnt so much and it’s such an amazing experience to do, all staff was very welcoming and worth doing if your starting your grooming journey 😆Thankyou for your time.

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Reply from FDM Retreat and Academy 2026.03.23

Thank you for your lovely review, Laura! We are so pleased that enjoyed your Seminar and look forward to welcoming you back soon for the next one! 🐶✂️🐩
Kayleigh & Kara 🐾

Jodie Thurlbourn 2026.02.15

Had a seminar here with Julie Harris, the most I’ve learnt/taken away from a seminar. So much knowledge, taken away understanding a lot more about dogs.

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Reply from FDM Retreat and Academy 2026.03.23

Thank you for your lovely review, Jodie! We are so pleased that enjoyed your Seminar and look forward to welcoming you back soon for the next one! 🐶✂️🐩
Kayleigh & Kara 🐾

Crystal Hewitt 2026.01.26

I went to fdm retreat and academy for first aid training , it was a days course which was filled with so much information as well as practical elements , even with all the hands on learning and theory the course was all so well explained and detailed in ways that are easy to remember . I have left with so much knowledge and I feel confident that I could carry out first aid if I ever did need it. Thank you so much , I highly recommend this academy if your looking to gain or extend your knowledge Both Kayleigh and Kara are amazing teachers and they were both willing to answer any questions I had throughout the day , I will definitely be returning ☺️

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