Our Story

About Hamlet Hounds

A Thornbury salon born from a pandemic, a dog named Peppa, and a decade of waiting for the right moment to leap.

How it began

From the travel industry to Thornbury's hamlet.

I had been working in the travel industry for just under ten years when the epidemic took over our lives. It was during this disruption that fuelled the little voice in my head, nudging me every day — what if, what if soon, what if now?

Unofficially nicknamed the "dog whisperer," my love for dogs runs in my veins. It's this deep love and commitment to animal welfare that gave me the confidence — and the leap of faith — to make my dream of starting a local grooming business a reality.

"From an idea that flourished during the pandemic, Hamlet Hounds was born."

Born and bred in Melbourne's inner northern suburbs, I wanted to offer a local service that caters to the surrounding fur-parents in my community. Local ethos is everything to me, and opening a salon within our Thornbury hamlet will only add to our thriving suburb and surrounds.

— Sarah, owner & founder of Hamlet Hounds

A dog receiving a professional groom at Hamlet Hounds — cage-free, calm and unhurried in the Thornbury salon

Every visit — a noble hound, freshly cared for

What we believe in

Welfare-first grooming for every dog in our care.

Our mission is to improve the appearance, health and wellbeing of every dog put in our care. Our goal is to provide a comfortable, safe and stress-free environment, supported by quality and professional services every time.

We believe happy dogs make for happy dog owners. That's not a marketing line — it's the measure we use for every groom. We're partners in pet care, and we take that seriously.

We recommend grooming every 6 to 8 weeks, depending on your dog's size and needs. Regular grooming keeps coats healthy, skin breathing, and early health issues visible before they become problems.

Freshly groomed dog at Hamlet Hounds — the result of welfare-first professional grooming in Thornbury
The paw behind the logo

Peppa.

Peppa was Sarah's first dog when reaching adulthood. Typical Labrador — a cheeky pup who turned into a super friendly, outgoing and sweet-natured girl. Just months after her 14th birthday in 2021, the sweet girl left this earth.

As a reminder of her beautiful soul, Peppa's inked paw print is the trademark icon for Hamlet Hounds. Every groom carries a little piece of her.

The space

A salon with character to match.

Hand-painted gum-forest mural — a large Labrador and small pup walking a misty path — Hamlet Hounds salon backdrop

The signature hand-painted mural — Peppa in the forest

Salon waiting area with wall of gilded renaissance dog portraits on exposed brick, red-velvet bench

The portrait gallery — dogs painted as royalty

Interior reception showing HAMLET HOUNDS wall sign, product shelving, white timber cabinetry and fiddle-leaf plant

The reception — locally stocked, warmly lit

Exterior shopfront at 149 Miller Street Thornbury with wrap-around hand-painted dog and forest mural

The shopfront — a Thornbury landmark on Miller Street

Ready to book in your noble hound?

Send us a booking enquiry — we'll be in touch to confirm your appointment. Remember, availability is approximately 5 weeks out for weekdays and 12 weeks for Saturdays.

Send a Booking Enquiry