What to Expect
In order to create a calm, quiet and kennel-free environment (please note kennels may be used when dogs are dropped off early or picked up late), only one dog is groomed at a time and pickup is required within 15 minutes of the time service is completed. The salon is equipped with a large grooming table for your pets comfort, a large bath tub that can support dogs of any size, Happy Hoodies for dogs of any size and limited ingredient treats. From the time of drop off to the time of pick up we are with your dog and during this time we practice positive reinforcement using the techniques mentioned below and more.
Drop Off
At the first appointment we will spend a few minutes getting to know and build a relationship with your dog. We will also go over their background information with you and discuss the services being performed. A price and time estimate will be given at this time if requested.
The Basic Information & Background and Grooming Waiver may be filled out before or at the first appointment. A person over the age of 18 must be able to sign the Grooming Waiver at the beginning of the first appointment.
Bathing & Drying
Once your dog enters the tub they will receive a warm bath with a shampoo that best benefits their coat type followed by a nourishing conditioner. For dogs that find baths to be stressful, silicone treat mats that suction to the wall may be used to help reduce stress. Your dog will then be towel dried followed by the use of a leave-in conditioner to make them as soft as possible. Often times, one of the most stressful parts of grooming for the dog is the use of a high velocity dryer. While we still use high velocity dryers, we always use a Happy Hoodie. The Happy Hoodie is a multi-purpose piece of fabric (much like a neck gaiter) that expands over your dogs head and gently compresses to help protect your dogs hearing as well as calm your dog by muffling noises. It was designed specifically for use while drying dogs and has proven to be very effective. Once dry, your pet is ready to move onto the table!
On the Table
Most of the grooming process is done on the grooming table. During this time, we will be working with your dog using Positive Reinforcement to achieve the rest of the groom. We use a variety of tools including brushes, sprays, shears, and combs to get your dog looking and feeling as clean and fresh as possible.
Pick Up
You will receive a text about 10-15 minutes before the groom is finished to help avoid a waiting period post groom (since some dogs get very anxious during this time). If you would like any part of the haircut adjusted we are typically available to do it on the spot.