Viktoria Valetova

Hand Stripping Specialist, 12+ Years Experience

An owner playing fetch with two dogs on a sunny Guincho beach near Lisbon, with Serra de Sintra mountains in the background
Dog Life in Lisbon

Summer Dog Grooming in Lisbon: Heat, Humidity, Beach and Ticks

A practical Lisbon summer guide for dog owners: heat stroke prevention, why double coats should never be shaved, beach and saltwater care, and how to protect against ticks and sandfly-borne leishmaniasis in Portugal.

Viktoria ValetovaViktoria Valetova·Apr 22, 2026
A black Portuguese Water Dog with classic lion cut standing in the Atlantic surf on a sandy beach, seaweed in the foreground
Breed Guides

Portuguese Water Dog Grooming: A Complete Owner's Guide in Lisbon

Everything Portuguese Water Dog owners in Lisbon need to know: the two coat types, lion vs retriever cut, grooming frequency, ear care, and honest advice from 12+ years at the grooming table.

Viktoria ValetovaViktoria Valetova·Apr 15, 2026
A shaggy ginger dog lying on grass with a long, tangled coat showing early signs of matting
Grooming Tips

Matted Dog Hair: What Causes It, How to Prevent It, and When You Need a Professional

Matting is a welfare issue, not an aesthetic one. A groomer's honest guide to why matts form, how to prevent them, when to safely de-matt at home, and when to call a professional.

Viktoria ValetovaViktoria Valetova·Apr 8, 2026
Bulldogs walking on the beach with waves - dog-friendly beaches in Lisbon
Dog Life in Lisbon

Dog-Friendly Lisbon: Best Beaches, Parks & Cafes for You and Your Dog

Your insider guide to the best dog-friendly spots in Lisbon - beaches where dogs can run free, parks with dedicated dog areas, and cafes that welcome your four-legged companion.

Viktoria ValetovaViktoria Valetova·Apr 1, 2026
Goldendoodle with well-maintained curly coat running on grass
Grooming Tips

How to Care for Your Dog's Coat Between Grooming Sessions

Everything you need to know about maintaining your dog's coat at home - from choosing the right brush to preventing mats and knowing when it's time for professional grooming.

Viktoria ValetovaViktoria Valetova·Mar 30, 2026
White puppy lying on wooden deck - preparing for first grooming visit
Grooming Tips

How to Prepare Your Dog for Their First Grooming Visit

A complete guide to making your dog's first grooming appointment a calm, positive experience - from at-home prep to what happens during the session.

Viktoria ValetovaViktoria Valetova·Mar 28, 2026
Viktoria Valietova hand stripping a West Highland White Terrier at PawsN'Surf grooming salon in Lisbon
Academy News

Master Hand Stripping for Westies: New Online Course at PawsN'Surf Academy

PawsN'Surf Academy launches its first specialized online course: hand stripping for West Highland White Terriers. Learn from a groomer with 12+ years of hand stripping experience.

Viktoria ValetovaViktoria Valetova·Mar 25, 2026
Yorkshire terrier during bath at professional grooming salon
Career

How to Become a Professional Dog Groomer in 2026: A Complete Guide

Everything you need to know about starting a dog grooming career - from training and skills to building your client base. Real advice from a working groomer.

Viktoria ValetovaViktoria Valetova·Mar 25, 2026
Cocker Spaniel with wire coat - one of the breeds that benefits from hand stripping
Breed Guides

Top 10 Dog Breeds That Need Hand Stripping

Not sure if your dog needs hand stripping? Here are 10 breeds with wire coats that benefit most from this traditional grooming technique.

Viktoria ValetovaViktoria Valetova·Mar 24, 2026
Dogs surfing at Lisbon beach - the PawsN'Surf lifestyle
Grooming Tips

Dog Grooming Prices in Lisbon: What to Expect in 2026

A transparent look at dog grooming prices in Lisbon for 2026. What affects the cost, what different services include, and how to get the best value for your dog.

Viktoria ValetovaViktoria Valetova·Mar 10, 2026
Fluffy dog on leash - how often should you groom your dog breed guide
Grooming Tips

How Often Should You Groom Your Dog? A Breed-by-Breed Guide

Every breed has different grooming needs. Learn the ideal grooming schedule for your dog based on coat type, breed, and lifestyle.

Viktoria ValetovaViktoria Valetova·Feb 24, 2026
Norwich terrier with wire coat - hand stripping vs clipping guide
Grooming Tips

Hand Stripping vs Clipping: Which is Better for Your Dog?

Not sure whether your dog needs hand stripping or clipping? This expert guide breaks down the differences, explains which breeds benefit from each technique, and helps you make the right choice for your dog's coat, health, and lifestyle.

Viktoria ValetovaViktoria Valetova·Feb 10, 2026