FAQ

How exactly does this work?

Great question! If you are interested, please fill out my New Client Form found on the home page so I can learn a bit more about you and your pet. There is an online version and a printable version for your convenience. You can call, text, or email me to book an appointment, however text message is the best way to reach me at this time. Of course, I'm happy to answer any questions you may have before we set a date and time for me to come to your home to perform the services your pet needs. Once I arrive at your home, I will bring in all of the equipment needed for the services that day. An ideal place for me to set up is a bathroom, utility/laundry room, or garage so that clean up time is confined to one space. Once I am done, you'll be given the opportunity to suggest any alterations before I pack up completely. I want your pet to look how you want them to. 

How will you bathe my pet?

I perform baths in your home at a sink, shower, or bathtub. A detachable head works best but is not necessary. I use a universal hair trap to keep drains from clogging and I will vacuum the area thoroughly so it looks better than before I arrived! After your pet is freshly shampooed and conditioned, I will towel dry them then fully blow dry. 

My pet doesn't like nail trims. How will you do them?

Over the years and the hundreds of nail trims I've performed, I have learned that it is all about confidence and patience. With new clients, I will allow the pet to get to know me a little bit before starting the service. This makes a huge difference for your pet. Instead of several vet techs restraining them to quickly do a nail trim, I am set up to allow the pet time to warm up to me and earn their trust. After that, I will give the pet time to be introduced to the tool. Typically, nail trims are rushed and the pet doesn't have time to adjust. Every pet takes a different amount of time. If your pet has had serious nail trim trauma in the past then I will be happy to offer additional training for a small fee, depending on the severity of the trauma. I have helped dozens of animals learn to tolerate, and eventually enjoy, nail trims. I can help your pet too! 

Can you file my pet's nails?

Yes! Of course! I am highly skilled at using an electric file. I currently use a cordless DREMEL professional nail grooming device. The electric file allows for the extra level of smoothness that cannot be obtained using a traditional nail clipper. All nails are the same price; just let me know what you prefer.

Tip: If you are worried about cutting your dog's quick, an electric file is a great option. If your pet has long quicks then an electric file, used properly, can recede the quick further back over time. 

My pet has sensitive skin. What products do you use?

The bathing products I use for dogs are from Green Groom. I love this brand because they smell great but are not overpowering on the nose. They are made sustainably in small batches and are cruelty free. I use their standard Fresh and Clean shampoo, Oatmeal shampoo for sensitive skin, and Cucumber Green Tea conditioner for that extra silkiness. Of course, if you have a product you would like me to use, I would be happy to do so. All of my products are proudly made in the USA!

How often should I brush my pet?

In a perfect world, every day. In a not-so-perfect world, every week. 

In the wild, a dog's fur is brushed naturally by rolling around on the ground, roaming through the wilderness, brushing up against trees, social grooming, and getting wet. In the modern home, however, this cannot be done regularly or up to the standards of our brand new white sofa. Brushing our pet's fur does many beneficial things. Not only is it a bonding experience but it also distributes oils throughout the fur, removes dirt, stimulates blood flow, aerates the coat, detangles hairs, and removes dead hair. When brushing your pet, pay special attention to the areas with longer hair (typically behind the ears, muzzle, in between toes, tail, etc.) and high friction areas such as the armpits. 

It is important to brush our dogs regularly because the skin can only handle so much before brush burn sets in. Not only does brush burn hurt, it also leaves our pet's skin vulnerable to a skin infection. Test any new brush by using it on your forearm first so you have a good idea of how much pressure to apply. Do this regularly throughout the brush's life as the bristles will wear down and become sharper over time. For "average coated" breeds such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, or Pit Bull Terriers, 10-15 minutes weekly should be suitable. Any long haired breed should be detangled daily to maintain an ideal coat. 

How often should my pet be bathed?

Short answer, once a month. 

The life cycle of our pet's skin is every 21 days. Each hair follicle produces an oil called sebum that helps to protect the hairs coming from that follicle. Over time, this builds up on our pet's coat and causes them to smell. Washing our pets with shampoo removes all of that build up but it also leaves out pets coats vulnerable because new sebum hasn't taken its place yet. This is why conditioning our pets is also very important for maintaining a healthy, shiny coat.