Q: What is Fear Free? How is it different from other low stress salons?
Fear Free means that not only do we use gentle handling and calming environments, but we actually work to reduce and even eliminate fear and anxiety during the grooming experience. We analyze fear and anxiety throughout the visit and act on it with methods born of modern canine behavior science to create a better visit for all. We do things like desensitize dogs to nail trims, create positive associations with bathing, and counter condition them to dryers. Fear Free means that it is our job to not only look after the physical well being of our client’s dogs, but also their emotional well being. This can mean that in some cases a dog must have a few or even many short grooming sessions before the full groom is achieved in order to teach the dog that they don’t have to be afraid. However, once a dog learns that they don’t have to be afraid, the groom can be finished quickly because the dog is enjoying every minute of it.
Q: How long will the groom take?
Groom times vary from dog to dog but you can expect the groom to take at least 2 hours. Groomers often rush through grooms, making mistakes and stressing out the dogs. We prefer to go only as fast as the dog will allow, ensuring the quality of the groom and safety of the dog.
Q: Do you use kennels?
We are a kennel free salon. It’s all couches and dog beds, and that perfect spot on the rug…
Q: Do you cage dry?
No. We hand dry dogs to ensure there is no risk of over heating. Hand drying also gives the softest and fluffiest coat finish!
Q: What should I bring with my dog for the groom?
Bring your dog on a leash and make sure they’ve had a good long potty break. Bring your dog’s favourite treats especially if they have allergies. Most importantly, make sure that you tell us about anything that may impact your dogs stay with us, such as : health issues, behaviour issues, age, intact or altered, past or present injuries, etc. You may also want to bring along some pictures of what you would like your dogs groom to look like.
Q: When should I start bringing my puppy in for grooming?
Your puppy should have his first groom at around 12-14 weeks old, after he has received his puppy vaccinations. The earlier the better, but not before those vaccinations. A puppy's first experience at the groomers is exciting but it can be very frightening as well. To avoid overwhelming the puppy, we take time with the puppy's first 3 appointments to gently teach him about his groom, creating good associations and happy memories. Your puppy's first few hair cuts may not be the best, but soon he will learn what to expect and will come home happy, healthy, and handsome!
Q: How often should my puppy come in for a groom?
It is strongly recommended that your puppy be professionally groomed at least once a month for his first year. This insures that he gets lots of experience with the grooming process and will set him up for success in grooming for the rest of his life. After that foundational year, you may choose to bring him for grooming every 6-8 weeks.
Q: Is there a cancellation fee?
There is no fee if cancellation is made 24 hours before the appointment. However, cancellations made under 24 hours are subject to a cancellation fee of 50% of the appointment’s quoted price. This goes for no shows as well. Being 30 minutes late for your appointment is considered a no show; your appointment will be forfeited and there will be a charge of 50% of the appointment’s quoted price. As we are a one-on-one appointment only salon, it is very important to be punctual for both the drop off and pick up. Chronic tardiness may result in late fees.
Q: Do you groom cats?
Sadly, no. We are a canine only salon.
Q: Do you shave Golden Retrievers?
We do not offer the shaving of double coated breeds, such as Golden Retriever or Pomeranian, as a service. Shaving is very damaging to the skin and coat of these dogs and can cause health problems. Click here to read more about why this is, or we are happy to explain this further in person as well as to suggest some alternatives that will not harm your dog.
Q: How far in advance should I book an appointment?
As we do not offer drop-in appointments, you should book at least two weeks in advance. However, it is prudent to book even earlier during the busy summer and holiday seasons. It is highly recommended to re-book at the end of each appointment. For those who plan on having a regular grooming schedule, you can opt to be booked in for the whole year and have your schedule emailed to you.