Before Your Appointment
A few simple things help the session go smoothly for your dog. This page covers everything worth knowing ahead of time.
Driveway and parking
The van needs a clear space roughly equivalent to two side-by-side parking spots. A standard residential driveway works well. If you have a narrow driveway or limited space, street parking in front of your home is a fine alternative.
Move any cars, bikes, or bins out of the target area before the appointment time. The groomer will park, set up, and work entirely within the van - nothing will be laid out in your driveway or yard.
Your dog's health
Grooming sessions are appropriate for healthy dogs. If your dog is currently recovering from surgery, has open wounds or active skin infections, or has been prescribed rest by a veterinarian, please reschedule until they've recovered.
Senior dogs and puppies are welcome. Puppies should ideally have completed their initial vaccination series before their first groom - check with your vet if you're unsure. For older dogs, let us know in the booking notes if they have joint issues or tend to tire quickly.
Matting and coat condition
Severely matted coats can require extra time and may affect pricing. Mats close to the skin can be painful to work through, and in some cases the humane option is to shave underneath rather than attempt to detangle.
If you suspect your dog's coat is heavily matted, mention it in the booking notes or send a photo before your appointment. That way we can plan appropriately and discuss options with you.
Feeding and exercise
Try to avoid feeding your dog a large meal right before the appointment. A light stomach makes the bath more comfortable and reduces the chance of nausea for dogs that find grooming stressful.
A short walk beforehand is helpful. A dog that has had a chance to relieve themselves and burn a little energy tends to settle more easily in the van.
Communication and handoff
Someone needs to be at the address to hand over your dog at the start and receive them at the end. You don't need to stay outside during the session. When the groom is done, you'll receive a text with a photo - that's the signal to come out.
If your dog has a specific style you want, bring a reference photo. The groomer can only work with what's described - a picture removes ambiguity and helps achieve the right result.
What a typical appointment looks like
