I completed my dog grooming training with Michael at the end of 2025 and opened my own business, 6 months in I am fully booked almost 8 weeks in advanced. I believe this is down to the excellent level of training I received where I was given such a good foundation of knowledge and also given the confidence to succeed. If I ever have any questions or have needed help from Michael he has only been a phone call or message away and for this I am truly grateful. I highly recommend Michael and his team and hope to expand my salon by having another family member train at Bark n Beauty spa to also have the same high standard of education.
Natasha McMurray
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June 22, 2025
An incredible place custom made to learn how to not only groom dogs but run a dog grooming business. Teaching is led by Michael, a legend in the dog grooming industry and his fantastic team, using all the latest equipment and tools you would expect. In my experience at Michael Shiels Academy everyone is made to feel welcome and at ease, and you will be helped and guided throughout the course with the opportunity to groom a variety of different breeds in various styles.
Go for it, you won't regret it!
martina locke
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November 25, 2025
Fabulous groomers. Have been taking my two golden retrievers there since they were pups. They just run in the door like they are visiting a friend! The staff take so much care and attention. Michael, the owner is amazing and so full of knowledge! Thanks folks for another amazing job on Bailey and Daisy!
Michelle Moura Doherty
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November 19, 2025
I had one of the worst experiences ever at Michael Shiels Academy when I brought my Pomeranian for grooming. From the moment I walked in, the staff’s attitude was already hostile. They immediately told me I was late, even though I had confirmed the appointment time and arrived exactly when agreed.
My dog is anxious with strangers at first, and I clearly explained that she just needs a few minutes to feel safe before anyone tries to touch her. They didn’t even wait one minute before forcibly trying to grab her, which of course terrified her and made her bark.
The owner then told me to come back inside and immediately started insulting both me and my dog, calling her a “terrible dog” and saying he didn’t want her there. Things got even worse when he attempted to “play” with her by cornering her and throwing Christmas decorations in her face. My dog was shaking, scared, and barking out of pure fear.
He then said my dog was “mental,” told me I was a terrible owner, and that my dog “wasn’t worth or good enough” for his grooming spa.
This experience was extremely disrespectful, unprofessional, and honestly frightening. In my opinion, they do not treat dogs with care, patience, or proper handling skills—especially dogs who may be anxious in new environments.
I would never recommend this grooming place to anyone who truly cares about their pet’s wellbeing.
Jessica-lee Burleigh
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June 24, 2025
I studied the 30 day level 3 diploma with Michael and his fantastic team of staff in may of 2023.The atmosphere makes the experience fun,positive and easy to learn inn.Its truly the best thing I have ever done for myself as am now 2 years on and a full time solo dog groomer in my own salon. I have dabbled in the competition world and done well so far and again I believe this is because of Michael,his team and the training i had to set the foundation of my new career .Michaels academy is the top of my list for recommendations,when anyone iknow shows interest in a career with dog grooming..
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24 Mullenan Rd, Londonderry BT48 9XN, UK
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I completed my dog grooming training with Michael at the end of 2025 and opened my own business, 6 months in I am fully booked almost 8 weeks in advanced. I believe this is down to the excellent level of training I received where I was given such a good foundation of knowledge and also given the confidence to succeed. If I ever have any questions or have needed help from Michael he has only been a phone call or message away and for this I am truly grateful. I highly recommend Michael and his team and hope to expand my salon by having another family member train at Bark n Beauty spa to also have the same high standard of education.
An incredible place custom made to learn how to not only groom dogs but run a dog grooming business. Teaching is led by Michael, a legend in the dog grooming industry and his fantastic team, using all the latest equipment and tools you would expect. In my experience at Michael Shiels Academy everyone is made to feel welcome and at ease, and you will be helped and guided throughout the course with the opportunity to groom a variety of different breeds in various styles. Go for it, you won't regret it!
Fabulous groomers. Have been taking my two golden retrievers there since they were pups. They just run in the door like they are visiting a friend! The staff take so much care and attention. Michael, the owner is amazing and so full of knowledge! Thanks folks for another amazing job on Bailey and Daisy!
I had one of the worst experiences ever at Michael Shiels Academy when I brought my Pomeranian for grooming. From the moment I walked in, the staff’s attitude was already hostile. They immediately told me I was late, even though I had confirmed the appointment time and arrived exactly when agreed. My dog is anxious with strangers at first, and I clearly explained that she just needs a few minutes to feel safe before anyone tries to touch her. They didn’t even wait one minute before forcibly trying to grab her, which of course terrified her and made her bark. The owner then told me to come back inside and immediately started insulting both me and my dog, calling her a “terrible dog” and saying he didn’t want her there. Things got even worse when he attempted to “play” with her by cornering her and throwing Christmas decorations in her face. My dog was shaking, scared, and barking out of pure fear. He then said my dog was “mental,” told me I was a terrible owner, and that my dog “wasn’t worth or good enough” for his grooming spa. This experience was extremely disrespectful, unprofessional, and honestly frightening. In my opinion, they do not treat dogs with care, patience, or proper handling skills—especially dogs who may be anxious in new environments. I would never recommend this grooming place to anyone who truly cares about their pet’s wellbeing.
I studied the 30 day level 3 diploma with Michael and his fantastic team of staff in may of 2023.The atmosphere makes the experience fun,positive and easy to learn inn.Its truly the best thing I have ever done for myself as am now 2 years on and a full time solo dog groomer in my own salon. I have dabbled in the competition world and done well so far and again I believe this is because of Michael,his team and the training i had to set the foundation of my new career .Michaels academy is the top of my list for recommendations,when anyone iknow shows interest in a career with dog grooming..