THESE hairy hounds prove that humans weren't the only ones rushing to the barbers yesterday - as pampered pooches were also treated to long-overdue haircuts.

The long-haired dog breeds, including poodles, labradoodles, spaniels, and a Pomeranian, would usually have a haircut at least every six weeks.

The Argus: Dogs came in for a trim after Covid restrictions were easedDogs came in for a trim after Covid restrictions were eased

But with dog groomers having been closed during the winter lockdown, the dogs were in dire need of a serious trim when groomers finally reopened their doors.

The Argus: Dogs with long hair need regularly cuts to keep tidyDogs with long hair need regularly cuts to keep tidy

And among the first pooches back through the doors were some of the regular customers at Bone Idol groomers in Brighton.

The Argus: The dogs were far happier for having had a haircutThe dogs were far happier for having had a haircut

Happy customers such as Joey the border terrier and Nellie the Welsh terrier had serious snips, leaving behind a mountain of fur that was about half the height of the pooches themselves.

The Argus: Bone Idol opened to customers on Monday following the easing of Covid restrictionsBone Idol opened to customers on Monday following the easing of Covid restrictions

And others, such as Lola the cockerpoo, were finally able to see straight again - after having their furry fringes cut back from where they had grown over their eyes.

Bone Idol owner Scott Learmouth, said: "Our customers and their dogs love coming to the salon, and we love to see them, so the lockdown once again has been really hard for everyone.

"On the first day of opening, and for the foreseeable future we have a packed schedule, and it is really satisfying to see the transformations from drab to fabulous once more."

The Argus: Some dogs had gone a long time without having a haircutSome dogs had gone a long time without having a haircut

The Bone Idol business also extends to the Bone Idol Academy, which trains would-be dog groomers.

The Argus: Covid has seen many people want to become dog groomersCovid has seen many people want to become dog groomers

And Scott said that that part of the business has seen a giant surge in applications since the start of the pandemic.

The Argus: People can also get trained to be dog groomers at Bone IdolPeople can also get trained to be dog groomers at Bone Idol

He added: "While we have of course been subject to restrictions like most retail businesses, dog grooming is a flexible occupation.

"It's also really fun and creative, and people who have been stuck in lockdown home working in jobs they don't like are coming to dog grooming and starting their dream career.

"The pandemic has been a real time for reflection for many people."

The Argus: Dogs have also increased in popularity during the pandemicDogs have also increased in popularity during the pandemic

To find out more go to www.boneidol.co.uk.