Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take to groom my dog or cat?
The process varies depending on services, breed, condition of coat, and how cooperative your pet is during the grooming process. However, on average, the entire process usually takes 3 hours.
Can I stay with my dog or cat and watch?
Through the years we have learned that if you’re animal can see you, this usually leads to him/her trying to be with you. We work with sharp tools and it is advisable to avoid this potentially dangerous condition. If you want to watch, take a peek from a distance. If you need to be present the entire time, you should schedule a home grooming.
Do you bathe the dog first?
In order to get a great haircut, the hair needs to be clean so we always bathe the dog as part of the grooming. Depending on breed and condition of coat, your groomer may choose to do a “rough cut” first, then the dog is washed and dried before the final haircut. In other cases, we may elect to wash and dry the dog completely before starting the haircut.
Can you do a puppy cut?
Of course we can. Puppy cut is a loosely descriptive term. Most of the time, it means the hair is cut to the same length all over. Many clients choose a puppy cut because it is easy to maintain and can be done in a choice of lengths. Your groomer can work with you to choose a length that looks best.
Do I get the same groomer each time?
If you like a specific groomer, please make the request when you make your appointment. If your animal is nervous, we find that coming back to the same groomer works best because it fosters a relationship between the client, groomer and animal.
My animal’s hair has many knots. Do I need to cut the hair short?
The simple answer is probably, yes. If the hair is allowed to knot or develop “matts”, it is unhealthy for the animal’s skin. Knotting gets worse if the coat gets wet. Removing all the knots can be painful and irritate the skin. It is time consuming, hence costly. The best solution for all is usually cutting the coat short, which means applying the clipper under the “matts”. Discuss this situation beforehand, so we can explore all the options with you.
Can I bring in a picture of the cut I want to achieve?
Sure, a picture is worth a thousand words. We will be happy to review options and try to achieve the result you want.
How is my dog dried?
Very carefully, often with a combination of methods. After the bath, we towel dry and use a high-velocity cool dryer that blows off the majority of water. Then we use a dryer that the dog sits or lays in that circulates cool air all around them. The groomer may then finish up with a stand dryer by the grooming table, while the groomer does the brush out. Your animal is supervised at all times. We use only drying methods that are safe and consistent with the current standards of our industry.
Do you cut the nails?
Yes, we check and cut your animals nails with each and every groom if necessary.
What are the anal glands and what do you do?
It is certainly something you do not want to deal with at home! They are sent sacks under the dog’s tail. Many animals empty them naturally, some do not. Your groomer can check if they need to be emptied or expressed. Please let us know if you do NOT want us to express the glands, as we do this as part of our regular service.
My dog has very sensitive skin & allergies, do you use hypoallergenic products or can I bring my own shampoo?
Absolutely! Our large variety of professional grooming products are all natural and we have shampoos and conditioners formulated for all skin types and furs. If your vet has prescribed a prescription shampoo that must be used, you may always bring it with you on each visit.
Why would you ever groom a cat?
It is a common misconception that cats do not require the services of a professional groomer. Feline grooming is a specialty, that we have the ability to do. Unique handling and soothing techniques ensure your cat is not traumatized during the grooming process.
My cat is very matted and I have heard about a “lion cut”, what is it?
The lion cut is a style of hair cut that is ideal for cats that are so matted that they have no option but to shave them down below the knots. It is also ideal for families with allergies present. It is cute too! The groomer uses a short blade to remove the fur from the body, upper portions of the legs and most of the tail. What is left is a furry mane, furry socks from the knees down and a poof at the very end of the tail. The cats love it and it virtually ELIMINATES HAIRBALLS. For clients that prefer a hair kitty, we do offer alternate options of cat grooming.
When should I have my new Puppy groomed?
We wouldn’t accept a puppy for grooming prior to completion of initial vaccinations usually about 16 weeks old. Initially we suggest the grooming be brief, trimming the hair around the eyes, paws and sanitary area only. The objective is to have the experience be a positive one at the outset so your pet looks forward to each future grooming experience. Be unemotional when you drop him off and give him a lot of praise when you pick him so you don’t telegraph anxiety at the outset and show pleasure at the end of the experience.