Groom My Dog prides itself in doing the very best for your dog that we can, even if it might take a little more time than we originally discussed. We are committed to the best groom we can do; we aren't bound by "promise times" to the extent that we will do a less than quality job for you or your dog.
FAQ's
I've made an appointment....now what?
When you arrive for your appointment we will greet you and your pet and we will ask you to complete a short questionnaire for our records. This includes your contact details, your pet's history, veterinarian details, and health and behavioural information. You will then have an initial consultation and we will examine your dog and discuss it's grooming requirements with you. Once grooming needs have been decided upon we will give you a more accurate indication of cost. On examining your dog we will be able to taylor which products we will use to bring out the best in your pets coat and provide the optimal support for healthy skin.
How long will my dogs grooming take?
This all depends on the individual dog as coat, condition, age, and temperament are all relevant factors. Also what breed of dog it is and its styling requirements will determine the time required. When we meet your pet we can discuss any relevant issues as each client is different. Our main concern is the welfare of your pet whilst in our care and to make it an enjoyable experience for both them and us. An average groom time of two hours is a long time for any dog to stand still so frequent leg stretching and toilet breaks are given. This is particularly important for puppies who tire easy and become bored and for the elderly dogs who find standing still for any length of time uncomfortable.
Why aren't our grooming prices posted on line?
Because, unlike some shops who quote a price and then, when you get there, they have "special packages" to add on which end up costing you much more than your quoted price, we will give you a quote range (for example, £20- £25) for the type of dog you tell us you have. Upon seeing the dog, we are then able to give you a more precise idea of what your charge will be based on your dog's size, condition of the coat and what it is you want done. Also unlike some shops, we don't have an iron-clad "set" price for your type of dog and only do THAT amount of work because that's what we quoted you. With so many breeds and styles it would be impossible to give a comprehensive price guide. Price is also affected by the state of the coat presented ie a heavily matted coat will take much longer to be groomed than one in good condition.
Hopefully the following guides for some of the more common breeds will give an indication of what to expect.
Example prices :
Cocker Spaniel
£30 - £35
Springer Spaniel
£25 - £30
Lhaso Apso
£25 - £30
West Highland White Terrier
£22.50 - £28
Miniature Poodle
£30 - £50
Miniature Snauzer
£25 - £30
Please note that all prices quoted here, verbal quotes and estimates are not defiinite and binding and may be subject to variation according to situation
Price indications are for a breed standard clip and include bathing, nails, ears etc. Severely matted coats will incur an extra charge. Please feel free to contact us to discuss your dogs requirements and find out more.
Why can't I drop my dog off early/late?/Why are appointment times so specific?
Because we only book one animal at any given time slot. Unlike other shops that bring in all of their animals for the day at one time, we give personalized attention to your dog. At Groom My Dog, we have your animal's health and comfort in mind at all time. We do not believe the practice that some shops practice of dropping your animals off on your way to work and leaving them all day is, in any way, good for your pet.
Why should I be prompt to pick my dog up when you call me?
The main answer is because it is absolutely the best thing for your dog. Grooming can be stressful for an animal. When a client is early or late, this puts the schedule off and mostly causes your (or, more likely, someone else's) animal to have to sit around and wait We do our best to give you a 15-20 minute notice prior to your pet's appointment being complete so that you can be here as we are almost done with the groom. We understand that there may be slight delays in picking up your pet, but it is quite stressful for most animals to have to wait unnecessarily after a grooming session is complete.
Why can't I stay with my dog while being groomed?
The answer is again, because we believe your not staying is the best thing for your pet. You are more than welcome to sit in our grooming room all day long, if you wish, just not when your animal is being groomed. For those of you with children, you know how they can behave when you're around versus when you're not. It's the same thing: your presence will bring an extra level of unnecessary stress to your pet during a time when a groomer will be working with sharp implements...a time when your pet needs to be solely focused on the groomer. Groom My Dog always tries to do what we feel is best for your animal; we will answer any questions and/or concerns you have. We will not, however, put your dog at risk when that situation is avoidable.
Exceptions to this rule are sometimes made when we are working with a very old and frail dog or one that is very frightened having had a bad experience at a groomers before. Please feel free to call us and discuss your particular case.
How will my dog/cat be dried?
At Groom My Dog we do not use cage dryers but individually dry your dog by hand using warm, fluffy towels and professional dog blow-dryers which cannot become too hot for comfort. Because dogs don't have sweat glands like we do, we never want to take the chance to overheat your animal.
Sedation?
We do not sedate any animals on these premises under any situation. Only a Veterinarian can prescribe any necessary drugs for your pet. We sometimes have to recommend clients to seek veterinary advice if we cannot groom a difficult dog for their safety. We also cannot administer drugs for you as our insurance does not allow it. Please ask your vet for advice. Sedated animals require special care and may be refused service if not arranged for prior to appointment.
Do you use Muzzles?
We very seldom find it necessary to muzzle a dog and much prefer to build up a trust between Dog and Groomer. However, dogs that show signs of aggression or biting/licking at the clippers & or scissors will be muzzled for both their safety and ours.
Yes. We always encourage owners to bring a few treats to reward their dog. You are also welcome to bring one of your dog's favourite toys or blanket if it makes them feel more at home. We often give treats to the dogs and if your dog has a special diet or medical problem which does not permit this please inform us.
Can I bring some treats with my dog?
Does the groom incude nails?
Grooming always includes nails. The only exception to this would be dogs that become overly aggressive or panicked to the point where it would be unsafe for us to provide this service. If this is the case we would advise you to speak to your vet on your next visit.
What shampoos do you use?
We only use top quality professional dog shampoos. With many types to choose from we are sure to have a shampoo suited to your dogs coat type. We are continually searching for the best grooming products for your pet.
When should I start getting my Puppy groomed?
As soon as the puppy has completed its vaccinations it should start making regular visits for grooming. There are a lot of new experiences for your puppy to discover and the younger they start the easier it is for them. Remember we offer free puppy sessions, please call for advice.
My dog has fleas.....
Dogs that have fleas will be washed with a flea shampoo that will kill all fleas on the dog. We cannot take any chances that other pets in our care will get fleas. There is an extra fee for this. We will also give you advice and recommendations to prevent and control further problems. We also take measures to ensure that our environment is flea free.
Do you do hand stripping?
Yes we do Hand Stripping
Do you groom large breeds?
Yes, we do. Please call us to discuss.
How do I find your shop?
Please visit our Location page for directions. Click here to visit
There is ample off street parking.
My dog just needs his nails clipped and his ears cleaned...do I need an appointment?
No appointment necessary for this, however please call first to ensure that we are available. Nail clipping and ear cleaning is £10 and only takes a few minutes. You may have to wait if we are finishing off a groom and a customer is waiting.
My dog just needs his face and feet done...
It is no problem to have face and feet trimmed again no appointment is necessary, however please call first to ensure that we are available. A charge of £15 will apply.
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What if my dog is timid or nervous? We are only too happy to try to work with nervous dogs. We use massage and aromatherapy throughout your dog's visit to enhance their enjoyment and help them to relax. It is also possible to break a grooming session into several shorter sessions which can help boost the confidence of a dog that has had a bad experience. Please talk to us about your dogs and we will work with you to re-educate them. It is our firm belief that grooming should be and can be pleasurable for every dog. We have dealt with many dogs who have been very scared and after a few visits they love to come here. Most dogs are groomed straight through, allowing them to be picked up within a few hours as opposed to being left all day. |
Do you provide boarding?
No. We are a grooming service only.
How long do I have to wait for an appointment?
Sometimes it is possible to get a same day appointment due to cancellation but we have an appointment system which can often have a waiting time of up to 2 weeks
POLICIES
Grooming Appointments
We aim to try and accomodate our customers busy lifestyles and as such, are able to offer evening and weekend appointments as necessary. Please call us to arrange
Reminder Service:
A courtesy reminder email or phonecall will be made up to 72 hours prior to your appointment time. Cancellation Policy: Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours prior to your appointment (48 hours if you are booking more than one animal). This allows us time to try to book a replacement for your vacated appointment.
"No Shows":
In the event of cancellations received less than 24 hours (or 48 hours for a multi-pet appointment) prior to your appointment or "no shows", we reserve the right to add a £15 service fee to your next appointment.
At all times your pet's welfare is our prime concern