At what age should
I start grooming my puppy ?
It is never too soon to start grooming. You should start brushing your puppy the day you bring it home, as it is an important part of the bonding process. As soon your puppy has
completed it’s vaccinations (usually around 12 weeks of age) it should
start making regular visits to the grooming salon to become acquainted with the
groomer & professional grooming process, minimising stress &
nerves for future visits. This should be a gradual and pleasurable experience as grooming will be a large part
of your dog’s life.
Do you offer Puppy Packages ?
Yes. Puppy packages are available from 12-24 weeks old offering a gentle & gradual introduction to myself, the salon & the grooming process, all whilst prioritising a positive & stress-free experience with gentle handling to set them up for future grooming sessions without anxiety. It consists of 4 visits, after which your puppy will hopefully be ready & happy to have a big boy/clever girl full groom. However, each puppy is different & I will always work at their pace to avoid overwhelming them.
Nervous or anxious dogs including rescued dogs with unknow grooming history
Similar to the puppy package you can book a grooming introduction package which specifically caters for nervous or anxious dogs & offers a gentle & gradual introduction to myself, the salon & each step of the grooming process using only positive reinforcement. These sessions are specifically designed around your dog's individual needs so that they do not feel overwhelmed.
Can I bring treats for my dog ?
Absolutely yes. Treats, praise & gentle handling is used throughout the session to create positive associations with grooming. Each dog has it's own preference with treats & many have allergies, so please bring their favourite treats.
How long will my
dog be at the salon?
That depends on the breed of the dog, it’s behaviour &
the condition of it’s coat. Most dogs take between 1½ to 2 hours for a full groom. I can call you to let you know when
your dog is ready for collection.
My dogs coat is matted / tangled, can you brush it out ?
Some dogs have a few
tangles & mats which can be gently removed, but severe de-matting can be very time
consuming, not to mention stressful & painful for your dog. If the coat is very matted, often the only
humane option is to clip the matted coat short & start again.
The Animal Welfare Act 2006 states that it’s
an offence to cause animals pain or discomfort, & I reserve the right to
refuse to do anything I think may be detrimental to your dog’s
well-being. Ultimately your dog’s well-being & comfort is always my
top priority.
Can I bring a shampoo prescribed by my vet ?
Yes,
as long as it is clearly marked with instructions.
My
dog does not like other dogs !
Not a
problem. Your dog will be groomed on a one to one basis. There will be no other dogs in the salon.
Do
you clear anal glands ?
Yes, if your vet recommends it. Please ask for this to be done when you arrive for your
appointment.
Can I stay
with my dog ?
Generally it is better not to as I
find that dogs are much better relaxed when the owner is not around to distract
them (not unlike children!) The exceptions to this rule are if your dog
suffers with fits, is very elderly/infirm or is extremely nervous.
Will my dog be muzzled ?
Rarefly have I found it necessary to muzzle a dog. However, if your dog
shows signs of aggression or biting/licking at the clippers/scissors it
will be
muzzled for it’s own safety & mine.
Can you
just trim my dog’s nails ?
Yes.
Do
you
do hand stripping ?
No.
How much will it cost ?
Prices are
subject to the breed & overall condition of your dog’s coat. Until I meet
your dog it is difficult to quote an exact price, but I can offer a price
guide over the phone based on a dog in average condition for the breed.
Matted & difficult dogs will incur an additional charge.
Do I
need to make an appointment ?
Yes, grooming is
by appointment only.
Do you charge a cancellation fee ?
Yes. No shows and last minute cancellations with less than 48 hours notice will be charged at the full appointment fee. You may be required to prepay before your next appointment will be booked.
Why won't my dog let me groom him ? He fidgets too much !
Try elevating your dog by putting
him on a table or work top. Stand him on a non slip surface (a bath mat is ideal). By doing this your dog will realise this is groom
time, not play time and in most cases dogs will be much better behaved, more co-operative
& far more likely to stand still. There is no substitute for
daily brushing/grooming. The most common places mats start are behind the ears,
the neck where the collar sits,behind & under the ears, in the armpits & the groin area.
You may not be aware of it, but mats are a serious problem & can be
detrimental to your dog’s well being. A mat can become so tight it can
tear the skin & cut blood circulation off to the areas that are affected.
Matting can also restrict the dog’s movement, creating a veritable straight
jacket. Matting will prevent the skin from breathing & will hide a
multitude of problems including lumps, sores, infections, cuts, fleas, ticks & in extreme cases maggots etc.
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