Frequently asked questions
First visit, how often to groom, anxious dogs, practical details: here are the answers to the questions we are asked most often.
Before you come
Your first visit
What happens on the first visit?
We start by getting to know each other: your dog can explore the salon, its smells and sounds, while we talk through what you would like, their coat and their health. Then we work at your dog’s pace, with breaks whenever they need one.
Allow a little more time than for a usual appointment. At the end, we show you what we have done and share a few tips for caring for the coat at home.
What should I bring to the appointment?
Not much:
- their vaccination record (on the first visit)
- their lead and collar or harness
- their favourite toy, if it comforts them
Please also tell us about any health problems, allergies, sensitive areas or ongoing treatment. A short walk just before the appointment helps your dog arrive relaxed.
Does my dog need to be vaccinated?
Yes. To protect all our four-legged clients, your dog’s vaccinations must be up to date. Please bring their vaccination record on the first visit. [To be confirmed: required vaccines, e.g. DHPPiL, rabies, kennel cough.]
If your dog is unwell or has a fever or fleas, please postpone the appointment: we will happily find a new date together.
From what age can I bring my puppy?
As soon as their vaccinations are complete, usually at around 3 to 4 months. The earlier they get used to the bath, the dryer and the scissors, the calmer future visits will be.
That is exactly what our puppy introduction is for (see our services): a short, very gentle first session at their own pace.
Can I stay during the grooming?
Most dogs are calmer and more cooperative when their owner isn’t in the room. So we ask you to leave your dog in our care, and we call you as soon as they are ready.
With a puppy or a very anxious dog, you are of course welcome to stay for a few minutes while they settle in. Just mention it when you book.
My dog is anxious or may bite – can you still groom them?
Yes, in the vast majority of cases. Just let us know when you book: we plan a quiet time slot, work in small steps and take as many breaks as needed.
If your dog might bite, please tell us openly – it is about their safety as well as ours, and we never judge. A surcharge may apply if the session takes much longer (see our prices). And if your dog is simply too stressed, we would rather stop than force them.
At the salon
Grooming
How long does a grooming session take?
It depends on your dog’s size, the condition of their coat and the service you choose. As a guide:
- Bath and brush: about 1 hour
- Full grooming: 1½ to 3 hours, depending on size and coat
- Puppy introduction: about 45 minutes
We give you an estimate when you book, and we call you as soon as your dog is ready to go home.
How often should my dog be groomed?
It depends on the coat type. As a guide:
- Long or continuously growing coats (poodle, bichon frise, shih tzu, Yorkshire terrier): every 4 to 8 weeks
- Wire coats (terriers, schnauzer): hand-stripping 2 to 4 times a year
- Dense undercoats (German shepherd, husky, golden retriever): a bath and de-shedding at every moult, so 2 to 4 times a year
- Short coats (Labrador, beagle, pug): a bath and brush every 2 to 3 months
Between visits, regular brushing at home makes all the difference. We are happy to advise you on what suits your dog.
My dog’s coat is badly matted – what will you do?
First, we look at the coat together with you. Lengthy de-matting can be painful and stressful: when the knots are too tight, we usually recommend a short clip instead. The coat grows back, and your dog goes home relieved.
De-matting is charged as a surcharge depending on the time it takes, and we always discuss it with you before we start (see our prices). The best way to prevent mats is regular brushing at home – we are happy to show you how.
Do you groom older dogs?
Of course, and with extra care. We adapt the session to their pace: frequent breaks, a non-slip mat, a height-adjustable table and gentle drying. If needed, we focus on the essentials to keep the session short.
Please tell us about arthritis, heart problems, epilepsy or any other frailty: we take it into account at every step.
Which products do you use?
Professional shampoos and care products, chosen for your dog’s skin and coat type, including for sensitive skin. [To be completed: brand(s) used, hypoallergenic or natural range…]
Does your dog have a known allergy or a shampoo prescribed by the vet? Tell us, or simply bring it along: we will use it instead of ours.
Do you also groom cats?
[To be confirmed] Our salon is dedicated entirely to dogs – that is where all our expertise lies. For your cat, we are happy to recommend a specialist groomer.
Good to know
Practical details
Do I need an appointment?
Yes, we work by appointment only. That way we can give every dog all the time they need, with no waiting and no rushing.
Call us or write to us through the contact form, and we will suggest a time that suits you. Before holidays and festive periods, it is best to book a few weeks ahead.
What if I need to cancel or move my appointment?
It happens! Just let us know at least [24 hours] in advance, by phone or message, so we can offer the slot to another dog. [To be confirmed: policy for late cancellations or no-shows.]
Which payment methods do you accept?
[To be completed: e.g. cash, debit or credit card (V PAY, Visa, Mastercard), Payconiq.] Payment is made at the salon when you collect your dog.
Where can I park?
[To be completed: parking in front of the salon, nearest free or paid car park, bus stop, step-free access.]
You will find the map and directions on our contact page.
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Didn’t find your answer?
Call or write to us – we always take the time to answer your questions.