Frequently Asked Questions...
I am here to put your mind at ease. If you’re a new client to Perry's Pampered Paws, you may have a few questions about how the grooming process works. I invite you to take a few moments to browse through our frequently asked questions below. Should you not find the answer to a specific question please feel free to contact me below.
Q. When should my puppy come in for its first groom?
A. It’s important to have your puppy groomed as soon as possible so they can get used to and learn to love the grooming experience. I recommend they come in at 12 weeks of age or after their last set of vaccinations. My 'Puppy Groom Varsity' is ideal for getting your puppies used to the smells, sights, sounds and sensations of the grooming process and your puppy will gain confidence with each visit.
Q. How Often should my dog be groomed?
A. Your dog's breed and their coat type will determine how often they need to be groomed. As a general rule, most breeds will need to be groomed between every 4-12 weeks to keep their skin and coat healthy. Breeds with curly, long or wire coats should be seen every 6 to 8 weeks to prevent coats from becoming overgrown, knotted or matted and to keep them in good condition. For those with short coats or double-coated breeds, regular baths and de-shedding is required, these breeds can go longer in-between grooms if wanted. Remember, with regular grooming also comes the extra benefit of regular health checks, ear cleans and nail trims.
Q. How long does it take to groom my dog?
A. The time taken will depend on the condition and length of your dog’s hair. On average, full grooms take between 1.5 and 2 hours and a bath and dry takes a minimum of 45 minutes. I will give you an expected finish time when you drop off your dog and we have discussed your requirements. If I need extra time, I will contact you prior to the end of the treatment to advise what time you should pick up.
Q. How much does it cost for my dog to be groomed?
A. Pricing is based on breed, hair length, the condition of your dog’s, skin, its temperament, age, and grooming history. I will give an exact cost at your pre-treatment consultation. However, please use the prices listed on our 'Grooming' & 'Spa Treatments' pages as a guide.
Q. Can I stay and watch while you groom my dog?
A. As your dog loves you very much, they will often wiggle, move around and sometimes cry in order to get close to you, this is not safe while I am grooming. I request you drop your dog off at their scheduled appointment time, and then come back when the treatment is finished. Your dog's safety is always my number one priority and if I ever need to contact you during a grooming session, I will do so.
Q. How often do dog's need trimming and do I need an appointment?
A. I recommend that your dog's nails are trimmed every 4 to 6 weeks. This usually co-insides with a regular groom and comes as part of the groom package. However, if you are on a longer groom schedule, and require your dog to have a nail trim please don't hesitate to contact me so I can give you a time to pop in. Why not treat your dog to a Pawdicure if they are visiting?
Q. My dog is old, can it be groomed?
A. All dogs regardless of age benefit from being groomed. However aged, disabled, and poorly pets require specialist treatment during the grooming process. I have a special place in my heart for our aged canine companions and individual considerations and special handling will be used for these dogs. If you have any doubts it is always wise to consult your vet who will help you to decide whether there would be any adverse risk in grooming your older dog.
Q. My dog is very anxious and nervous, can it still be groomed?
A. Keeping a dog calm during the grooming process is just one of the requirements of a groomer. I understand that some dogs may have had a bad experience of grooming and now do not want or enjoy being groomed. However, through patience, gentle handling, the right equipment, and time I try my best to make the grooming experience enjoyable for all dogs. For those that are particularly anxious, I recommend a grooming program consisting of a series of shorter treatments where bath and drying is undertaken at one session, nail clipping and ear cleaning at another, hair clipping at another and so on. These should be spaced a regular intervals of 1 week to aid the training process. I would be happy to discuss a treatment plan with you if your pet requires this service.
For dog’s who do not have to get over a previous bad experience but generally do not liked being groomed, we will book these in under a standard treatment to determine their requirements. It is very rare to find an un-groomable dog, but if I come across any serious problems during a treatment I will discuss them with you so we can agree on a solution together.
Q. Do I need to do anything to prepare my dog for its treatment?
A. Please do make sure your dog has been exercised and toileted before bringing them to their appointment. This ensures they are relaxed and comfortable during their treatment.
If your dog has a favourite treat you are very welcome to bring them; I do like to reward throughout their treatment. This is especially important if they have dietary requirements.
Q. How can I stop my dog becoming matted between appointments?
A. This is something I get asked a lot. Regular brushing and combing your dog, not matter what length coat it has, is very important for the general health and maintenance of your dog's coat and skin. It not only reduces knots and mats from forming, but stimulates blood flow and improves coat condition. I recommend using a slicker brush and metal comb. If you need help selecting your brushes, please drop me a message and I'll be happy to help.
Q. My bitch is in season, should I still bring her for a groom?
A. Yes - you may still bring your dog to be groomed. However, please do let me know that your dog is in season, as your appointment may need to moved. Please be advised, that some bitches are more sensitive when they are in heat and benefit from coming towards the end of their season when they are more comfortable.
Q. What if I am not happy with the service my dog receives?
A. At the beginning of every appointment we will have a consultation to discuss your requirements. However, there may be times that a short clip-off is necessary due to matting found during the treatment. I will always call you prior to doing any clipping so as you are informed. However, if for any reason you are not completely satisfied with the treatment received, please tell me. Communication is key in ensuring you get what you want and I do my best for you. Your satisfaction is important to me, so please let me know asap and I will do my best to rectify it for you. I take great pride in my service and want every dog to leave the cabin looking and feeling fabulous!
Q. What type of payment do you accept?
A. I accept cash and card payments only.