Are appointments necessary?
Yes. Please call ahead to set up an appointment for your next groom. I do not accept walk-in appointments.
Do you use tranquilizers?
I do not use any type of tranquilizer or sedative on your pet, ever.
Do you groom Cats?
No.
How long does my dog stay?
Grooming sessions vary depending on breed, drying time, and the day's schedule. We do not require dogs to stay all day. Sessions normally last from 2 - 4 hours and I call you when your dog is ready for pick up.
Who handles my dog during her stay?
All dogs are handled, bathed, dried, and styled by the salon owner from start to finish. Your dog will never be left unattended or groomed in an assembly line fashion by multiple people.
Will you groom my Giant breed?
Yes. We have custom wall anchors, elevated tubs, and hydraulic equipment specifically designed to handle giant breeds.
Will you groom my Pitbull or Chow?
The Groomery does not discriminate against any dog based on negative breed stereotypes. We welcome any dog as long as they are friendly.
Do you handle aggressive dogs?
I ask that you inform me of any potential aggression towards people or other animals. I am experienced in handling difficult animals, however certain cases must be referred to a veterinarian to be safely groomed under sedation with medical supervision. Extra fees apply for hard to handle animals. Dog that pose a threat to the groomer will be sent home immediately.
Do you groom sick or elderly dogs?
At no time will we groom any animal that appears sick, as stress and excitement from grooming may aggravate underlying medical conditions. Elderly pets are handled carefully and given several breaks during the grooming process. We may ask you to sign a release form and allow for extra time. We may refer you to a veterinarian if your pet requires grooming with medical supervision.
Do you offer flea dips?
Chemical flea shampoos and dip exposure is dangerous and toxic to both people and your dog. I do use an all natural alternative that works as well as chemical pesticides, but without the harmful side affects.
In order to maintain a clean and safe environment, a flea removal fee is required on any dog with large amounts of fleas or ticks. A $5.oo service fee is charged for any heavily infested animal. Nominal amounts are removed free of charge.
Can you put an end to my dog's flea issues?
If your dog is infested with fleas, they are in your home too. While I can remove fleas on your dog, it is very important that you take care of the fleas in your home, otherwise, he will continually become infested once returning to the house. Daily vacuuming and washing of all carpets, wood floors, blankets and bedding will keep most flea problems under control.
When should I bring my new puppy for her first groom?
I recommend starting your puppy sometime around 12 weeks of age. Your new baby's first appointments primarily a gentle training session, allowing her to get used to new sights, sounds, and people. We will work on handling your puppy's feet and ears, and getting her slowly introduced to nail clippers and gentle brushing. A complete haircut may not be possible on a young puppy. Initially, I suggest a simple bath, nail trim, and tidy.
We want her first grooming experiences to be positive and gentle. It is important for you to remain calm, unemotional, and positive when dropping off or picking up your puppy so you do not unintentionally transfer anxiety to her.
What products do you use on my dog?
We use approximately 10 different types of high quality shampoos made specifically for dogs by a company that has specialized in pet shampoo for many years. A few of our regular shampoos include aloe vera, hypoallergenic, emu oil, and tea tree. A special shampoo is chosen for each dog based on coat and skin condition.
Will you remove the mats from my dog's coat?
"Humanity above vanity" is the golden rule at The Groomery.
I do not offer de-matting services to severely matted and neglected animals. The procedure of tearing out mats with a brush is both painful and inhumane to the animal. Dogs who are subjected to the process of tearing out mats quickly learn to associate pain and negativity with the grooming process.
A severely matted dog may be shaved down, or referred to a veterinarian. You will be asked to sign a release form, as mats often hide irritated and infected skin conditions caused by the skin's prolonged exposure to dirt, moisture, and parasites trapped underneath.
All coated dogs require grooming a minimum of every 4-6 weeks, and must be brushed and maintained in between grooms at home.
Why is my dog matted when I brush him at home?
There are specific tools and techniques used by groomers to properly and thoroughly remove dead hair from a coat. I will be happy to help you learn how to brush you dog more thoroughly at home.
Matting sometimes takes place in a thin layer close to the skin. People often do not even see it, or they brush above it, missing the layer of matting entirely.
If you bath your dog at home, he must be completely brushed to the skin from head to toe beforehand. By bathing a dog at home without removing all of the dead coat, you will inadvertently tighten existing mats and create even more.
Can you quote me a price?
In some cases I may be able to quote a base price over the phone. We always need to see the size, coat condition, and temperament of the dog in person before an accurate quote can be made.
Thank You!