What to Expect
In order to create a calm, quiet and kennel-free environment, I only groom one dog at a time in my home and require pickup within 15 minutes of the time service is completed. My space 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 a variety of treats including limited ingredient options. From the time of drop off to the time of pick up I am with your dog and during this time I practice positive reinforcement using the techniques mentioned below and more.
Drop Off
At the first appointment I will meet you outside by your car. I will spend a few minutes getting to know and build a relationship with your dog. I 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 I have a silicone treat mat that suctions to the wall and is made specifically for bath time. The goal of this is to simultaneously offer your dog a reward for making it through bath time and distract them. Once lathered and rinsed a gentle eye wash will be used to ensure your dog doesn’t have any product in their eyes. 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 I still use a high velocity dryer, I 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, I will be working with your dog using Positive Reinforcement to achieve the rest of the groom. I use a variety of tools including brushes, sprays, and combs to get your dog looking and feeling as clean and fresh as possible.
Pick Up
You will receive a text about 15 minutes before the groom is finished to help avoid a waiting period post groom (since some dogs get very anxious during this time). When you arrive please call or text and I will bring your dog out to you. Payment will be collected at this time, please note I am cash only at this time. If you would like any part of the haircut adjusted I am available to do it on the spot.