What to Expect for Your First Visit at Reigning Cats & Dogs

Before You Arrive

• Vaccination Records: Please bring proof of current Rabies and Distemper (DHLPP/DA2PP) vaccinations if you have not sent them already.  We cannot groom your pet without these.
• Relief Break: After the car ride, please give your dog a chance to relieve themselves before entering. This helps them stay comfortable and prevents potty accidents that would require an additional bath.
• Leash Safety: Keep your pet securely leashed when entering or exiting the salon. Even calm dogs can get excited when arriving or leaving.

During the Grooming Appointment

• We begin every visit with a calm check-in, reviewing notes, sensitivities, and any medical updates.
• Most grooms take about 2–2½ hours for small and medium dogs. Larger dogs may require additional time. You’ll receive a call or text as soon as your pet is ready.
• Please do not arrive unannounced or call repeatedly during the appointment. When dogs see their family midway, they become excited and wiggly, which increases the risk of accidents. A calm, focused environment helps keep every pet safe.
• If you’d like a 20-minute pickup notice, please request it at drop-off.

After the Grooming Visit

Your pet will be freshly groomed — feeling, looking and smelling great!

• Sanitary Area Sensitivity: It’s normal for dogs to feel a little “funny” after their privates or rear area are trimmed. They may scoot, sit quickly, or turn to look. Please discourage licking or scratching, as this can cause irritation. A light dusting with corn starch may reduce the sensitivity.
• Ear Cleaning: After we clean ear hair and debris, some dogs shake or scratch due to the new sensation—again, normal. Please prevent over-scratching so the ears don’t become irritated.
• Rest Time: Grooming is stimulating—most dogs go home and nap after their appointment.
• We take detailed notes on your pet’s grooming preferences and sensitivities. If you’d like to adjust anything next time, just let us know at pickup or via text or before your next grooming visit.

Coat Changes Between 9–12 Months of Age

Between six months and one year, puppies experience a coat transition—the soft puppy coat sheds while the new adult coat grows in. The fine puppy fur can tangle into the new coat and cause matting quickly.

• Increased brushing during this stage is essential.
• We do not de-matt; if the coat tangles beyond humane brushing, the coat will need to be shaved.
• Regular 4–6-week grooming helps prevent matting, keeps your pet comfortable & boosts confidence.

Spaying & Neutering Care

After surgery, your pet may wear a cone or onesie to protect the incision site. These coverings can easily cause matting.

• Daily brushing is recommended during recovery.
• We suggest scheduling grooming just before surgery, since your pet should wait about two weeks before their next grooming appointment.

Pick-Up

• You may pick up at the front desk (preferred) or the back door if you have a sleeping child, mobility challenges, multiple pets, or a nervous dog.
• To schedule future appointments, please text, call, or stop at the front desk (the appointment book stays at the front door).

Social Media

Your pet’s photo will be posted on Facebook and Instagram tonight.

We kindly ask that you do not arrive unannounced or attempt to visit while your pet is being groomed. When a dog sees their family partway through the process, it often causes excitement, distraction, or sudden movement, which can increase the risk of accidents during precision grooming.  Showing up before we are finished can make two more minutes of trimming take an additional 15 minutes because we have to stop grooming and wait until your pet is calm again.  A calm, focused environment helps us keep every pet safe and comfortable. If you show up, we may deem it unsafe to complete the grooming.  The session will be ceased, and the full payment will be expected.

We also ask that you avoid calling, texting, or emailing repeatedly during your pet’s grooming appointment. Our front desk support staff manages all communication for the salon, and they are currently operating at full capacity assisting clients, scheduling appointments, and handling check-ins and check-outs. Please trust that we will contact you immediately if there is any concern or question during the process. If you’d like a 20-minute heads-up, please request that at drop-off, and we’ll gladly accommodate it.

Most pets are finished within 2 to 2½ hours, except for larger haircut dogs, which may take a bit longer. We give an estimated timeframe when you drop off your pet, and you can trust that we will reach out the moment your pet’s groom is complete.

The volume of repeated messages and calls during grooming hours has grown significantly and is stretching our team beyond what they can reasonably manage. While we truly appreciate how much our clients care about their pets, continued excessive communication may eventually require us to hire additional support staff, which would inevitably increase costs for all clients.

We are deeply grateful for your understanding, patience, and trust. Limiting interruptions allows our team to remain fully focused on what matters most—your pet’s safety, comfort, and a beautifully completed groom.

For the fastest service, we recommend texting us to book your appointment. Text messages allow our support team to respond promptly and efficiently.

You are also welcome to text us your availability for the upcoming weeks—this helps speed up scheduling by allowing us to match your preferred times with our openings more easily.

We have the equivalent of two full-time support staff managing the texts, emails and social media messages. These team members are highly experienced at scheduling appointments and communicating updates, but they do not handle the grooming work itself and may not be able to answer detailed grooming or medical questions. These same team members do not routinely answer the phone because some families have very specific questions—such as inquiries about coat lengths or medical accommodations—that not all support staff may be qualified to answer. While we do our best to answer the phone when possible, especially between client check-ins and pick-ups, please know that voicemails are returned before we leave for the day.

Yes, absolutely! We would love for you to set up your future grooming appointments in advance.

When you bring your pet in, we’ll provide you with a Rebooking Form that allows you to select your preferred future dates. Filling out this form helps us check you in and out more quickly, keeps our schedule running smoothly, and shortens wait times for other families also at the door.

If you hand us this form at pick-up, we will text you the confirmed dates once we’ve reviewed the schedule and confirmed availability.

A very large portion of our daily phone calls and text messages are from families needing to adjust appointment dates. By pre-booking, you help us plan ahead more effectively—and as a thank you, we love to reward that effort!

Whenever possible, it is extremely helpful for our manager if drop-offs and pick-ups take place at the front desk. This helps us keep our check-in and check-out process organized and allows for smoother communication between our support staff and groomers.

If you or your pet has a mobility challenge, if your pet is fearful walking on the sidewalk along Broadway, if you are managing multiple pets, or if you have a sleeping child in the car, you are welcome to drop off or pick up at the back door.

If you would like to schedule your next appointment, please note that this can only be done by text message, phone call, or at the front desk. Our appointment book remains at the front desk at all times because it is actively in use throughout the day. For that reason, we are unable to bring the schedule to the back door to set up future dates.

Please bring your pet’s leash, collar, and/or harness with us for the duration of their visit. Do not remove your pet’s leash during check-in or allow it to drop to the floor.

It’s very important that your pet remains securely leashed upon entering the salon, as another client may be coming or going behind you. Keeping your pet on leash ensures their safety and prevents unexpected encounters or accidents at the doorway.

Once your check-in is complete, a staff member will safely guide your pet to the grooming area and make sure all belongings are stored appropriately until pick-up.

Each pet’s individual grooming price is determined by a combination of factors, rather than a one-size-fits-all rate. We evaluate every pet carefully to ensure pricing is fair, accurate, and reflective of the time, skill, and care required for their specific needs.

Some of the most important factors include:

• Breed and Coat Type: Each breed has unique grooming requirements. A Bichon Frise, poodle, or doodle-type coat requires far more time and technical precise haircut than a short-haired beagle or labrador which only require baths.
• Coat Density and Texture: The density, texture, and curl pattern of the coat make a tremendous difference in the time it takes to bathe, dry, brush, and style. Thick, plush coats—or coats with a wavy or curly texture—require more brushing, fluff drying, and scissoring than sleek, straight coats.
• Condition of the Coat: If a coat is matted, tangled, or packed with undercoat, additional time and care are required to groom safely and humanely.
• Frequency of Grooming: Pets who come on a consistent schedule are typically more comfortable being handled and require less time. Pets who go longer between appointments often do not have the rhythm of the process.
• Temperament and Behavior: Calm, cooperative dogs can be groomed more efficiently than those who are anxious, defensive, or squirmy. We always prioritize safety and gentleness over speed.
• Services Requested: Specialty trims, hand scissoring, deshedding, carding, spa treatments, and teeth brushing, etc. all contribute to the final cost.

Before beginning, we can provide an estimated price range based on your pet’s breed, coat type, and current condition. However, final pricing may vary slightly depending on the time and care your pet requires during their appointment.

Because so much depends on your dog’s individual condition and needs, we can only provide a price estimate until we see your pet in person. During the initial consultation, we’ll assess coat health, discuss your preferences, and give you a clear idea of what to expect.

After the car ride to our salon, please make sure your pet is leashed and give them a few minutes to relieve themselves before coming inside. The motion and excitement of the car ride often stimulate your pet’s bladder or bowels. Allowing them this quick break ensures they’ll feel far more comfortable and relaxed during their grooming session.

For dogs that are groomed regularly, each visit builds familiarity, confidence, and trust. They begin to understand the routine—bath, haircut, dry, finish—and come to recognize the process as something normal and predictable.

We strongly encourage you not to “shop hop” between different salons. Dogs thrive on consistency and familiarity, especially when it comes to handling, environment, and routine. By returning to the same salon and groomer each time, your pet learns to feel secure and confident with the process and the people caring for them.

Whichever salon you choose, it’s best to book in advance for your preferred day and time. Doing so helps you avoid the stress of last-minute bookings at any place that happens to be available on the same day. Consistent scheduling with the same salon helps ensure your pet receives attentive, high-quality care in a familiar setting.

A little routine, a familiar face, and a few minutes to stretch their legs before coming in can make all the difference in your pet’s comfort and confidence.

For the health and safety of every pet in our care, we cannot accept dogs with any contagious condition. This includes, but is not limited to, kennel cough, ringworm, mange, or other contagious skin or respiratory infections.

If your pet has recently been diagnosed with or exposed to a contagious illness, please reschedule your appointment. Most contagious conditions require a minimum waiting period after treatment or veterinary clearance before your dog can safely return for grooming.

Bringing a pet with a communicable illness or parasites into the salon poses a risk to other pets and our staff. If your dog is showing coughing, sneezing, hair loss, or skin irritation, we ask that you call or text us right away. We’ll be happy to reschedule once your pet is cleared by your veterinarian.

Your cooperation helps us maintain a clean, healthy, and stress-free environment for every pet we care for.

Ideally, your puppy’s introduction to professional grooming should begin around 12 weeks of age, after completing the second round of vaccinations. At this young age, puppies are remarkably impressionable—what they experience now will shape how they respond to new situations later in life. Early grooming visits are not just about a haircut; they’re gentle orientation sessions that help your puppy become familiar with the sights, sounds, and sensations of the salon—such as dryers, clippers, and the presence of other dogs.

During the first six months, a puppy’s brain develops at an extraordinary pace—comparable to several human years of learning—so thoughtful exposure during this window can make a lifetime of difference. When grooming becomes part of their early routine, most dogs grow to see time with is as a normal, happy, experience rather than something stressful or unfamiliar.

Once your pet is comfortable and confident with the process, regular grooming every four to six weeks helps maintain healthy skin, coat, and hygiene—and reinforces that sense of calm familiarity each time they visit.

If your dog is a puppy and will soon be spayed or neutered, it’s very important to schedule a grooming appointment just before the surgery.

After these procedures, your pet will likely need to wear an Elizabethan collar (cone) or a protective onesie to prevent licking or chewing at the surgical site. While these items are essential for healing, they can easily cause tangling or matting in the coat—especially around the neck, shoulders, and chest where the fabric or collar rests.

A good trim before surgery helps your pet stay clean, comfortable, and easier to maintain while they recover. It also makes post-surgical care simpler for you, since brushing or grooming immediately after surgery is not recommended.

Planning ahead with a pre-surgery groom ensures your pet can focus fully on healing—and look adorable while doing it.

If your dog is young, what is most likely happening is that they are shedding their puppy coat. For haircut breeds, the coat typically begins to change between 8 and 12 months of age. During this period, your puppy’s fine, soft puppy coat starts to shed or drop out as the new adult coat grows in.

This transition can be tricky—especially for poodle mixes and doodles. As the puppy coat loosens, it doesn’t always fall out cleanly. Instead, it can tangle and bind into the new adult hair, creating dense mats far more quickly than families have ever experienced before.

This stage can be very difficult. Many owners find that their puppy suddenly becomes matted despite regular brushing, and unfortunately, this sometimes results in the need for a full shave-down to remove the tangles safely.

To prevent this, it’s essential to maintain regular professional grooming every four to six weeks during this stage, along with consistent brushing and combing at home. A slicker brush and metal comb used together can make all the difference.

The good news is that once the puppy coat has completely dropped, the new adult coat is typically easier to manage and maintain. With steady care through this transition, your dog can avoid matting and stay comfortable and beautifully groomed.

Grooming remains an important part of your pet’s well-being at every age. Senior pets often benefit the most from regular grooming—it helps keep their skin healthy, their coat comfortable, and allows us to spot any changes such as lumps, sore spots, or irritations that may need attention. This is a time in their lives when sooner visits would be recommended.

That said, we do adapt the grooming experience for older dogs and cats. Senior pets are handled with extra patience and gentleness, and their sessions are paced to suit their comfort and mobility. We may shorten the grooming time, provide supportive team member assistance, or allow breaks when needed. We do recommend shorter, lower maintenance lengths for seniors to make home care simpler.

Age alone is never a reason to avoid grooming. With proper care and consideration, even the most distinguished senior can enjoy a safe, soothing, and refreshing visit.

Yes, we do. Whole-body hand scissoring is a specialized grooming service performed entirely by hand rather than with clippers. It allows for exquisite precision, smoother texture, and a beautifully sculpted finish that enhances your pet’s natural shape and coat type.

Because this level of artistry requires both advanced skill and considerable time, hand scissoring is billed at an hourly rate of $150. The total time varies depending on coat condition, size, and desired style, but we always work carefully and compassionately to ensure your pet’s comfort throughout the process.  The hands on duration for whole-body hand scissoring ranges from two hours for toy breeds to 6-8 hours for the largest dogs.

For clients who appreciate fine detail of this specialty service, hand scissoring offers a truly refined, tailored look—one that reflects both craftsmanship and care.

The ideal grooming schedule depends on your pet’s breed, coat type, and lifestyle. In general, most pets benefit from grooming every four to eight weeks to stay clean, comfortable, and healthy. Some owners choose to schedule appointments every week or two to help control shedding, reduce odors, and keep their home cleaner—especially for pets who spend a lot of time indoors.

For non-shedding breeds such as poodles, bichons, shih tzus, Lhasa Apsos, all poodle mixes, (such as goldendoodles, labradoodles, bernadoodles, aussiedoodles) and many terriers, grooming every four weeks is recommended to maintain a manageable coat. If kept in a shorter style, these breeds can sometimes go up to six between visits.

Dogs with shorter, shedding coats—like labradors, beagles, or boxers—can typically wait six to eight weeks, provided they’re brushed regularly at home to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils. Families that have these shorthaired breeds groomed monthly will experience a wonderful reduction in shedding at home.

Ultimately, a consistent grooming routine does more than keep your pet looking beautiful—it keeps their skin healthy, prevents matting, reduces shedding, and strengthens their comfort and confidence with the grooming process.

During each grooming session, your pet receives far more than a haircut—we’re also quietly performing a gentle, hands-on health check. Groomers are often the first to notice subtle changes that even the most attentive owners might miss between veterinary visits.

As we bathe, brush, and style your pet, we carefully observe their skin, coat, ears, eyes, and nails, watching for any signs of irritation, dryness, odor, or unusual growths. We also note things like changes in weight, sensitivity to touch, or stiffness in movement, which can sometimes signal developing health concerns.

If we detect anything unusual—such as lumps, ear infections, skin hot spots, parasites, or body asymmetry, —we’ll bring it to your attention right away and recommend that you consult your veterinarian.

These observations are not medical diagnoses, but rather part of our commitment to your pet’s overall well-being. Our observations give you to opportunity to report findings to your pet’s veterinarian sooner.

The time needed for grooming depends on your pet’s size, coat type, condition, and the specific services requested. On average, you can expect the following time frames:

• Bath with no trim for smooth coated dogs: approximately 1½ to 2 hours
• Bath and full groom: 2 – 2 ½ hours
• Bath and full groom for larger breeds: 2 ½ – 3 hours
• Heavily matted or high-maintenance coats: additional time may be required while we do not de-matt, matted pets require extra time to pre-shave the matted coat and perform a finishing cut after bathing and drying.

If you have specific time constraints, please let us know when booking your appointment. We’ll do everything possible to accommodate your schedule. Your groomer will be happy to call or text you when your pet is nearly finished or ready for pickup, so you can plan your day comfortably.

Our goal is always to balance efficiency with gentle, unrushed care—because every pet deserves both precision and patience.

We offer a toothbrushing service, but we do not perform dental cleanings. When we brush your dog’s teeth, it gives us an opportunity to remove any food debris from the last day or two and to freshen their breath. However, just as humans brush twice a day and still develop plaque and tartar, brushing your dog’s teeth only during grooming visits unfortunately isn’t enough to prevent buildup over time.

If your pet’s teeth show visible plaque, or if their gums appear red, swollen, or irritated, they should be seen by a veterinarian. Professional dental cleanings performed under veterinary supervision are the only safe and effective way to remove hardened tartar and maintain long-term oral health.

Our toothbrushing service is a simple way to promote freshness and hygiene between veterinary visits—part of helping your pet look, feel, and smell their very best.

Our priority is always your pet’s comfort, safety, and well-being. For that reason, we do not de-matt matted coats. Brushing out mats can be extremely painful and may cause skin irritation, bruising, or even skin tissue injury.

When a coat becomes matted, the most compassionate and hygienic option is to shave the coat short and allow healthy new growth to come in. While this may temporarily change your pet’s appearance, it provides instant relief and gives the skin a chance to breathe and heal.

After the coat is shaved, we’ll work together with you to create a grooming schedule that helps prevent matting from happening again. With a consistent plan—regular brushing at home and professional grooming every four to six weeks—your pet’s coat can stay healthy, and easy to manage.

If we find that your pet’s coat is matted, we always communicate with you before shaving to explain the extent of matting, and review what length will be necessary to remove it safely. Our goal is to make the process as gentle and stress-free as possible—never traumatic or painful.

At our salon, compassion comes first—because no hairstyle is worth your pet’s pain.

No, we do not cage dry. Cage drying—especially with heat—is unsafe and can quickly become dangerous for pets. Even so-called “cool air” cage drying can leave a wet dog shivering and stressed, which is never acceptable to us.

To put it into perspective: imagine falling into a lake, being towel-dried but left in damp clothes, and then sitting in front of a powerful fan. You wouldn’t feel comfortable—you’d feel cold, anxious, and unwell. That’s why we’re vehemently opposed to cage drying.

Instead, we hand blow-dry each pet. Hand drying also allows us to observe your pet’s skin closely—as the dryer parts the coat, we can monitor for any irregularities such as redness, irritation, parasites such as hidden ticks, or unusual bumps and report our findings to you.

This method requires more time and attention, and while that affects the overall cost of grooming when compared to what is offered at some other salons, it is unquestionably the safest and kindest approach. Each pet receives individual care, comfort, and thorough observation throughout the process.

Our philosophy is simple: kindness before convenience. Your pet’s safety, comfort, and emotional well-being will always come first here.

No, we do not tranquilize pets for grooming. Our groomers are skilled in handling nervous or sensitive animals with patience, understanding, and gentle care. Each pet is approached calmly and respectfully, and we never force a fearful or resistant animal through the grooming process.

We strongly prefer the opportunity to groom your pet without the use of tranquilizers first. Often, pets respond better when they are fully alert and able to process their surroundings naturally. Sedation can make them feel disoriented or vulnerable, which can sometimes increase unease rather than reduce it.

If we, together with you and your veterinarian, decide that your pet requires a prescribed sedative before grooming (which is very rare) please let us know what medication was given, the dosage, and when it was administered. This information allows us to monitor your pet closely and ensure their safety throughout the appointment.

If a tranquilizer has been given, it’s absolutely essential that you inform us. Knowing this allows us to pay special attention to your pet’s breathing, balance and overall comfort, since sedatives can slow respiratory function. In the rare event of a reaction causing an emergency, this information also enables us to immediately provide accurate details to an emergency veterinarian.

Our goal is always to keep your pet safe, calm, and cared for—never frightened or forced. We appreciate your honesty and partnership in helping us make grooming a gentle, positive experience for your pet.

Bathing your pet between grooming appointments is a wonderful way to help keep them clean and comfortable—but there’s a right way to do it to avoid creating tangles or matting.

The most important rule: always brush your pet’s coat thoroughly before bathing. Please pay close attention to the entirety of all 4 legs, the ears, tail, chest and underarms. Many people don’t realize that even small knots can tighten dramatically once they get wet. When this happens, the matting can become so severe that it must be shaved off to prevent pain or skin damage.

Brushing and combing before the bath loosens dirt, removes tangles, and allows shampoo and water to reach the skin evenly. It’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain your pet’s coat between professional grooming sessions.

Caring for your pet between professional grooming visits keeps them comfortable, healthy, and looking their best. A few consistent habits make all the difference:

• Brush regularly. Brush your pet’s coat several times a week—daily for long-haired breeds, every few days for short-haired ones. This prevents tangles, reduces shedding, and keeps the skin and coat healthy.
• Check the eyes (every few days). Your pet’s eyes should be bright, clear, and free of discharge. Wipe under the eye gently with a clean, damp cloth if you notice light tearing. Redness, squinting, or thick discharge may indicate irritation or infection and should be evaluated by your veterinarian.
• Inspect the ears (once a week). Lift the ear flap and look for redness, odor, or dark debris. Healthy ears are pale pink and smell clean. Wipe gently with a soft cloth or a pet-safe ear cleaner and cotton pads if needed—never insert cotton swabs or anything deep into the ear canal.
• Examine the paws and nails (weekly). Check between the toes and paw pads for debris, mats, ticks or small cuts. Nails should not touch the floor when your pet walks; if they do, it’s time for a trim. Regular inspection prevents discomfort and helps detect any irritations early.
• Brush your pet’s teeth (ideally several times per week). Frequent brushing helps prevent plaque and tartar buildup and keeps your pet’s mouth fresh and healthy.
• Monitor the skin and body (daily during petting). As you cuddle or brush your pet, feel for any new lumps, bumps, dry patches, or tenderness. Early detection of skin or health changes allows for prompt treatment.

By maintaining these simple routines, you’ll help ensure your pet stays comfortable and healthy between grooming sessions—and make each professional visit smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.

It’s not uncommon for a dog to scoot, hesitate, or take a few short steps and sit down after grooming. In most cases, this behavior is simply your pet adjusting to the new sensation of being freshly trimmed and clean.

We trim the sanitary areas using the industry-standard #10 blade length, which is kept short for hygiene reasons. This helps prevent the buildup of debris and keeps the areas more sanitary. However, just like people, some dogs have more sensitive skin than others—particularly around these delicate areas. Routine, monthly grooming helps minimize these reactions. Dogs that are groomed regularly become accustomed to the shorter sanitary area and are far less likely to experience irritation or unusual sensations after grooming.

If your dog seems mildly uncomfortable after grooming, you can apply a small amount of cornstarch or talcum powder to the area to help coat and soothe the skin. Avoid medicated creams or ointments unless prescribed by your veterinarian.

If your pet begins licking, chewing, or scooting excessively, please discourage that behavior right away. A dog’s tongue can cause irritation very quickly—hundreds of licks in just a few minutes can turn mildly ticklish skin into a raw, sore patch. Similarly, one good scoot on a rough surface like concrete can severely scrape sensitive skin on the rectum.

If your dog’s anal glands were expressed during grooming, it’s also normal for them to feel a little different or sensitive for a day or two afterward. This feeling should pass quickly.

Persistent scooting or signs of ongoing discomfort should always be discussed with your veterinarian, as they can help determine whether the issue involves anal glands, allergies, or minor skin sensitivity.

For dogs that are sensitive, we can absolutely leave those areas longer for comfort. This may be slightly less sanitary, but it’s often the better option for pets with delicate skin or heightened sensitivity. In these cases, we may use a clipper comb attachment to leave a soft fuzz on the tummy, or we may scissor the area around the rear end instead of shaving it completely. If you notice redness, persistent licking, or soreness, contact your veterinarian for guidance.

It’s fairly common for some pets to feel itchy after grooming, and in most cases, it’s a normal, temporary reaction. Think of it the same way people sometimes feel after shaving their legs or other areas—the skin simply feels more sensitive to air and movement.

Another common cause of post-grooming itchiness is when a pet has been matted and requires a very short blade to safely remove the mats. In these cases, the skin underneath hasn’t been exposed to air for some time, and once the matting is lifted away, it can feel suddenly cool, tingly, or even slightly itchy as it begins to breathe again.

Interestingly, white or light-colored dogs tend to be more prone to this kind of temporary itchiness, though it can happen to any pet.

It’s very important to let us know if your pet experiences itching after a grooming prior to the next grooming. We can make thoughtful adjustments, such as using a different shampoo formula, cooler water temperatures, or more conditioning products to help reduce dryness and preserve more of your pet’s natural skin oils.

Our goal is always to make your pet feel comfortable, clean, and happy—not just on grooming day, but afterward as well.

A hematoma—often seen as sudden swelling or puffiness in a dog’s ear flap—occurs when small blood vessels beneath the skin rupture, allowing blood to pool between tissue layers. One reason this can sometimes happen when a dog shakes its head forcefully or scratches excessively after the removal of matted hair from the ears.

When a pet’s ears are heavily matted, the skin beneath becomes tight, poorly ventilated, and more fragile. Once those mats are removed, the ears suddenly feel lighter and cooler. This new sensation can cause a dog to shake its head repeatedly, and when the ear flaps strike the surface of the skull during those shakes, the capillaries along the edge of the ear can burst, allowing blood to accumulate or even seep through the skin.

It’s important to understand that hematomas are not caused by the act of grooming itself, but rather by the neglect that allowed severe matting to develop in the first place. When matting is left untreated, it continually pulls on the skin, restricts airflow, and weakens the delicate tissues underneath—making them more prone to injury once freed.

Consistent, routine grooming—ideally every 4 to 6 weeks for most coated breeds—prevents mats from forming and keeps the ears healthy and resilient. Regular brushing at home, especially around the ears, helps avoid these painful complications entirely.

If a hematoma does occur, it’s important to contact your veterinarian promptly, as it often requires medical attention to drain the accumulated blood and prevent infection or scarring.

Please understand that hematomas are a condition that can be prevented with routine grooming or regular brushing at home.

At our salon, we handle every pet with great care—but the most effective protection begins with regular maintenance and timely professional grooming. Healthy skin and ears depend on consistent care, not rescue after neglect.

Yes, we can express anal glands as a service upon request. However, we do not believe this procedure should be performed on every dog as a matter of routine. Anal glands should only be expressed when there is a clear need—such as signs of discomfort, scooting, or known issues with impaction.

In most cases, families who request this service already know their pet has recurring anal gland problems and ask us to do it regularly as part of their grooming visit.

For smaller dogs, the glands are easier to feel externally, and if they appear full or uncomfortable, we will let you know. For larger dogs, it’s often difficult to determine gland fullness without attempting to express them, so generally, we will only perform this service upon request.

It’s also worth noting that routine expression on dogs who do not need it can cause a dependency to having them done when they did not need them to be done in the past. If your pet shows persistent symptoms or has chronic anal gland issues, your veterinarian should perform an internal expression or assess the glands for infection.

Our approach is guided by one principle: do what is needed, and nothing more. We focus on your pet’s comfort, health, and safety—never unnecessary procedures.

At the grooming salon, anal glands are expressed externally, which means gentle pressure is applied from the outside of the rectal area. It’s a safe, non-invasive technique appropriate for pets who need mild assistance.

Veterinarians, however, perform internal anal gland expression. With a finger inserted just inside the rectum, they can feel and empty the entire gland from the inside. This approach allows them to release a deeper portion of the gland’s contents that cannot be accessed externally. It’s also the preferred method for pets with chronic impaction, infection, or inflammation, since it’s more thorough and allows the vet to check for abnormal swelling or pain.

Both methods have valid purposes—but they are used in different contexts. External expression is part of routine hygiene for healthy pets, while internal expression is a medical procedure best performed by a veterinarian when there are concerns about impaction or infection.

If your veterinarian was able to extract more after grooming, it simply means that the internal portion of the gland still contained material that wasn’t reachable externally. This does not mean your groomer did anything incorrectly—it’s simply the limitation of external expression and a reflection of your pet’s individual anatomy and gland fullness.

Regular grooming and open communication with your veterinarian together ensure your dog’s comfort and health are always protected.

According to veterinarians, there are several theories and contributing factors that help explain why some dogs struggle with anal gland issues or impactions while others never experience them at all.

1. Body structure and anatomy.
   Some dogs are simply built in a way that makes proper natural expression more difficult. Narrow or recessed anal gland ducts can prevent the glands from emptying fully when the dog defecates, leading to buildup and eventual impaction. Small breeds, such as Toy Poodles, Chihuahuas, and Shih Tzus, tend to be more prone to this problem than larger breeds.
2. Diet and stool consistency.
   Anal glands are designed to express naturally during bowel movements, but they only empty effectively when the stool is firm enough to create pressure on the glands as it passes. Diets that produce loose stools—or frequent soft bowel movements—can prevent the glands from emptying properly. In these cases, improving diet or fiber intake can often reduce problems dramatically.
3. Allergies and inflammation.
   Dogs with food or environmental allergies often have inflamed or irritated skin, including around the anal area. Chronic inflammation can cause the glands to thicken, swell, or become painful, making it harder for them to empty. Addressing underlying allergies can make a significant difference.
4. Weight and lifestyle.
   Overweight or sedentary dogs may have weaker muscle tone around the rectum, which affects how effectively the glands express during defecation. Maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise supports better gland function.
5. Genetics and individual variation.
   Just like people, dogs have individual differences in anatomy, metabolism, and gland function. Some simply produce more secretion or have thicker material that’s harder to expel.

In short, anal gland issues are often the result of multiple overlapping factors rather than one single cause. The good news is that most cases can be managed through regular grooming, proper diet, and prompt veterinary attention when problems arise.

Our role as groomers is to notice changes early, communicate clearly, and work with you and your veterinarian to keep your pet comfortable and healthy—because prevention and teamwork are always the best approach.

Please do not try to cut out knots or mats at home with scissors. It’s extremely easy to accidentally cut your pet’s skin—especially since mats often pull the skin up into the tangled hair, making it far thinner and more fragile than it appears. Even a small slip can cause a painful injury that may require stitches.

It’s best to leave the mats alone until your professional groomer can safely remove them. We have specialized tools, clippers, and techniques designed to lift mats away from the skin without causing harm.

If your pet develops matting, avoid bathing them, as water tightens knots further and makes them much harder and more painful to remove.

Once your groomer has removed the mats, we can work with you to create a maintenance plan—including brushing guidance, grooming frequency, and coat care tips—to help prevent the problem from returning.

Your pet’s safety always comes first, and with proper maintenance, we can keep them comfortable, healthy, and beautifully groomed.

Dogs with insulin-dependent diabetes can be safely and comfortably groomed, but they require a little extra planning and awareness to ensure their safety. Clear communication between you and your groomer is essential.

Before your appointment, please let us know:

• Your pet’s insulin schedule (when doses are given and when they last ate).
• Any recent changes in blood sugar management, appetite, or behavior.
• Any signs of weakness, shaking, or disorientation that you’ve noticed.

We prefer to schedule diabetic pets early in the day, ideally soon after they’ve eaten and received insulin, so their blood sugar levels remain stable during grooming.

If you have given your pet insulin before breakfast and your pet does not eat breakfast that day, we will need to reschedule the grooming appointment. Administering insulin without food can cause dangerously low blood sugar, which may result in weakness, disorientation, or even collapse.

It’s also important to understand that the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) can look very similar. If your pet shows signs of weakness, shaking, confusion, or balance problems during grooming, your groomer will treat the situation as a low blood sugar emergency—because hypoglycemia is far more acute and dangerous in the moment. In these cases, we will administer glucose immediately and contact you right away.

During grooming, we monitor diabetic pets closely for any signs of fatigue, stress, or unsteadiness. If your dog ever appears unwell, we will stop immediately and ensure they receive the care they need.

We also recommend confirming with your veterinarian that your pet is cleared for regular grooming, especially if they have slow-healing skin, circulation concerns, or other complications related to diabetes.

Our priority is to keep your pet safe, calm, and cared for at every stage. With clear communication and proper timing, diabetic dogs can enjoy grooming comfortably and confidently—while we remain attentive to their health every step of the way.

Heartworm disease places an immense strain on a dog’s heart and lungs. Even moderate physical stress—such as standing for long periods, excitement, or the mild anxiety that can accompany grooming—can increase the risk of complications. When heartworms are present, fragments of the parasites or sudden changes in circulation can trigger dangerous reactions, including respiratory distress or cardiac collapse.

Out of respect for your dog’s safety and comfort, we require that any pet diagnosed with heartworm complete appropriate veterinary treatment and receive medical clearance before grooming. Once your veterinarian confirms that your dog’s heart and circulatory system have stabilized, we’ll be delighted to resume regular grooming—gently and at your dog’s pace.

Yes, absolutely—please let us know if your pet has been diagnosed with a heart murmur or any other heart condition. This information allows us to plan your pet’s grooming experience with extra care and attention to their comfort and safety.

When you arrive, please share:

• The grade or severity of the murmur if known.
• Any medications your pet takes for heart or blood pressure support.
• Whether your veterinarian has cleared your pet for grooming or recommended any limitations.

Heart murmurs vary widely—some are mild and cause no issues, while others require more careful monitoring. The more information you provide, the better we can tailor our approach.

During grooming, we make several adjustments for pets with heart murmurs or other cardiac concerns:

• We schedule them on Monday, our quietest day of the week..
• We keep the experience quiet, calm, and efficient, avoiding unnecessary excitement or exertion.
• Some pets become excited simply from the sensation of being wet down, so we may gently apply a mixture of shampoo and water from a bottle instead of using a full spray to wet the coat.
• When rinsing, we use the water on a slow, gentle trickle to help the pet remain relaxed, even though this process takes more time.
• For drying, we often fluff-dry pets with heart murmurs or senior pets rather than using high-velocity dryers. This technique takes longer but provides a softer, quieter, and calmer drying experience.
• We allow breaks if needed and watch closely for any signs of fatigue, heavy breathing, or stress.

If your veterinarian has given you any specific handling instructions, please share them with us—we’ll follow them carefully.

Our priority is to make grooming as safe and soothing as possible. With gentle techniques, slower pacing, and constant observation, pets with heart murmurs can enjoy grooming comfortably and confidently.

Most pets need their nails trimmed about every 4 weeks, though this can vary depending on their activity level, age, and the type of surfaces they walk on. Dogs that walk regularly on pavement often wear their nails down naturally and may need trimming less frequently, while indoor or small dogs often require more frequent care.

If you can hear your dog’s nails clicking on the floor, or see them touching the ground while standing, it’s time for a trim. Overgrown nails can change how a dog walks, placing pressure on the toes and joints, and over time, this can lead to pain or posture problems. Cats, especially indoor cats, also benefit from routine nail trims to prevent snagging, overgrowth, and ingrown nails.

We take a calm, gentle approach to nail trimming—especially for pets who may be nervous about it. For dogs who dislike nail clipping, scheduling trims more often helps desensitize them and keeps each session short and stress-free.

Regular nail care is a small step that makes a big difference in your pet’s comfort and mobility.

Some families prefer to keep the same groomer for every visit—and for some pets, that consistency works well. Having the same groomer helps build a trusting relationship between your pet and the groomer.

That said, there are also benefits to a little variety. Younger dogs, in particular, can benefit from being handled by different groomers. This helps them learn that many people can be kind and gentle, reinforcing trust and social confidence.

For senior pets, continuity can be especially comforting. Regular grooming with the same person allows the groomer to notice subtle changes—such as stiffness, arthritis, or areas that may need extra support or care. Familiar handling also helps reduce anxiety in older pets who thrive on predictable routines.

Of course, if you ever feel a grooming didn’t meet your expectations, please let us know specifically what you did or didn’t like. Sometimes the solution is as simple as making an adjustment—perhaps the ears weren’t trimmed as short as you prefer, or the style wasn’t quite what you envisioned. Clear communication allows us to refine our notes and ensure that both you and your pet have the best experience possible.

Our goal is always the same: to create a grooming relationship that is comfortable, consistent, and built on trust—whether that means staying with one familiar groomer or giving your pet the chance to meet others who share the same gentle approach.

We understand that schedules can be busy, and sometimes you may need your pet to stay with us a little longer than the actual grooming time.

You’re welcome to drop off up to 15 minutes early without calling ahead. However, please note that our first appointment of the day is 8:00 a.m. Monday through Thursday, and 9:00 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. We typically do not arrive more than a few minutes before our first appointment of the day.

If you anticipate needing to pick up later than usual, just let us know when scheduling. We’ll do our best to accommodate your timing and ensure your pet remains comfortable while waiting.

Our goal is always to make your pet’s visit smooth, pleasant, and free of stress for both of you. With a little communication, we can easily adjust our schedule to fit your day.

Yes, absolutely! We welcome photos of the style you’d like for your pet. Pictures are a wonderful way to communicate your preferences and help your groomer understand the exact look you have in mind.

Our support staff will review the photo with you, discuss your options, and explain what can realistically be achieved based on your dog’s coat type, texture, and condition. Sometimes small adjustments are needed to suit your pet’s hair length, body structure, or comfort level—but our goal is always to capture the essence of the style you love.

Our grooming area is visible, and we’re proud to maintain a transparent, and welcoming environment. However, for liability and insurance reasons, only employees and pets are permitted in the grooming area itself. You’re more than welcome to take a quick look before your appointment begins, but we’re unable to have anyone step into the workspace during grooming.

This policy isn’t just about safety for people—it’s also for the well-being of your pet. Dogs are often much more excitable and distracted when their owner is nearby. Even the most well-behaved pets may squirm, twist, bounce with joy or try to reach for you, which can make precise grooming (especially around the face or with scissors) less safe.

Our goal is always to ensure a calm, safe, and positive experience for every pet. Once your dog realizes you’ve stepped away, they usually relax quickly and allow the groomer to work efficiently and comfortably.

Yes, our groomers are familiar with most breed standards and have extensive experience working with many of the more popular breeds. If you’d like your dog groomed to their traditional breed standard, we’ll be happy to discuss the style in detail and make sure we understand exactly what you’re envisioning.

That said, many pet owners choose modified or lower-maintenance versions of the breed standard to suit their dog’s lifestyle and grooming needs. True breed-standard trims often require frequent brushing, shorter grooming intervals, and consistent upkeep to keep the coat in proper condition.

We always encourage you to bring photos of previous grooms or examples of the look you prefer. Visual references help ensure that both you and your groomer are on the same page about your pet’s style, whether you want a show-style trim or a more practical everyday version.

Our goal is to create a look that’s both beautiful and comfortable for your pet—and perfectly suited to your lifestyle.

Yes. We do not groom dogs with corded coats. This type of grooming is highly specialized and differs significantly from the coat-care techniques we practice. Because we are not experienced with maintaining cords, we prefer not to attempt a grooming style that we cannot perform to the highest professional standard.

Corded coats are unique in that they are not brushed or combed out—the cords themselves are intentionally left intact during the grooming process. In some traditional methods, especially with large, corded breeds such as the Komondor, the coat is soaked in a mixture of boric acid and water, then cage-dried on a rack system to allow the cords (which resemble dreadlocks) to dry thoroughly.

We do not perform this type of grooming for several reasons:

• We do not cage dry any dogs.
• We do not use boric acid or similar soaking agents.
• We do not leave tangles or cords in the coat, as this is contrary to the coat-care methods we practice.

Our focus is on safe, humane, and comfortable grooming techniques suited to the vast majority of coat types. For dogs requiring corded maintenance, we recommend seeking a specialist experienced in this specific and uncommon grooming style.

Your satisfaction is very important to us! We want you to love how your pet looks and feels after every visit. If you notice something at pick-up time, and one of our staff members is still available, we’re usually able to make a small adjustment right away before you leave the salon.

If you notice something after you’ve gone home, please give us a call within 48 hours so we can schedule a quick appointment to tweak the groom while it’s still fresh. Adjustments are easiest to make within that time frame, while the coat remains recently styled and manageable.

Our goal is always to ensure you’re completely happy with the result. Open communication helps us refine your pet’s notes for future visits so each grooming is even closer to what you envision.

Not necessarily. Dogs can shake or tremble for many reasons, and it doesn’t always mean they’re afraid or unhappy. Your dog may simply be anxious from the car ride, experiencing momentary anxiety about being separated from you, excited by new smells and sounds, or unsure whether they’re headed to the vet or the groomer. Once they realize where they are, the shaking often stops very quickly.

Much like young children at preschool drop-off, dogs sometimes show a little nervousness at first—but as soon as their owner leaves, they tend to settle in and relax. In fact, many dogs start wagging their tails and happily follow us right into the grooming area once they know they’re in a familiar, friendly place.

It’s also helpful to remember that dogs are very intuitive—they often mirror your emotions. If you appear nervous or worried, your pet may interpret that as a sign that something is wrong. The best thing you can do is stay calm, confident, and reassuring. A cheerful goodbye and positive energy from you help your pet know that they’re safe and in good hands.

Absolutely! While we use a top-rated, professional product line that promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat, we understand that some pets have specific needs or sensitivities. If your veterinarian has prescribed or recommended a particular shampoo, we are more than happy to use it during your pet’s grooming appointment.

Please note that many veterinary or medicated shampoos require a 5–10 minute contact time on the skin to be fully effective. In these cases, our bather will remain with your dog the entire time, gently massaging the product into the coat and monitoring your pet’s comfort. Because this process requires additional time and hands-on care, there will be a small additional fee for this service.

For the safety of all pets in our care, we require proof of the following up-to-date vaccinations before your pet’s grooming appointment:

• Rabies
• Distemper–Parvo complex (sometimes listed as DHLPP or DA2PP, depending on your veterinarian)

While not required, we also strongly recommend the Bordetella (Kennel Cough) vaccination to help protect your dog from airborne respiratory infections, especially if they visit dog parks, boarding facilities, or grooming salons regularly.

Maintaining current vaccinations helps ensure a safe, healthy environment for every pet we serve. If your veterinarian has any specific vaccine protocols or timing requirements, we’ll gladly follow those guidelines.

We take every possible precaution to keep our salon exceptionally clean, healthy, and safe for every pet in our care. We require current vaccinations for all clients and follow strict cleaning and sanitizing protocols between every appointment.

To further protect the health of our clients and their pets, we’ve installed a REME HALO® in-duct air purification system in our HVAC unit.

About the REME HALO® System:

• The REME HALO uses a combination of UV-C light and a proprietary Reflective Electro-Magnetic Energy (REME®) cell to produce very low levels of hydrogen peroxide ions and bipolar ionized particles throughout the salon’s air system.
• These ions actively reduce airborne and surface contaminants such as bacteria, mold spores, viruses, pet dander, and odors, unlike passive filters that only treat air passing directly through them.
• The system continuously purifies the air while the HVAC is running, creating a cleaner environment for both pets and people.
• It helps reduce airborne particles, microbes, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)—and clients often notice fresher air and fewer lingering pet odors as a result.

Even with all of these preventive measures, it’s important to understand that some dog illnesses are airborne and can still be transmitted through casual, indirect exposure—just as a child might catch a mild cold from another child in a social setting.

While no space can be 100 percent free of every airborne germ, our salon goes well beyond typical cleaning practices to maintain an exceptionally hygienic environment. Between vaccination compliance, regular disinfection, and our advanced REME HALO air purification, we do everything possible to keep your pet safe, healthy, and comfortable during their visit.

We understand that life happens, and sometimes appointments must be changed or canceled unexpectedly. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please provide at least 48 hours’ notice so we can offer your groomer’s timeslot to another client on our waiting list.

Because we operate entirely by appointment, a missed or late cancellation leaves an empty space that cannot be filled on short notice. If you cancel within 24 hours you will be charged a 100% fee for your appointment. This is because on such short notice we will most likely be unable to fill your appointment slot. If you cancel within 48 hours, you will be charged a 50% fee.

• Late arrivals: Pets arriving more than 10 minutes late will need to be rescheduled. Unfortunately, this is treated the same as a no-show, as it prevents us from completing the groom within the allotted time.
• No-shows: If we are unable to groom your pet because of lateness or a missed appointment, you will be required to pay for the full missed grooming appointment before scheduling your next visit.

We understand that true emergencies arise, and we always strive to handle them with empathy and fairness. While we respect your privacy, please know that if you cannot provide any information at all about the emergency, we may not be able to make accommodations. Communication helps us determine how best to assist you.

In the event of inclement weather, We still require at least 48 hours’ notice.

Please remember that each grooming appointment is reserved exclusively for your pet. A missed slot not only impacts our small business, but also prevents another client from being served.

Your thoughtfulness and communication help us maintain fairness, respect, and balance in our scheduling—allowing us to continue providing the highest standard of care to every pet we see.

Yes, your pet will be placed in a crate during a normal grooming visit. This is a standard and important part of maintaining a calm, organized, and—most importantly—safe environment for all pets in our care.

There are many perfectly normal reasons your pet might spend a brief time in a crate:

• They may need a few moments to decompress and observe their surroundings after drop-off.
• There might be a short wait while a tub becomes available.
• Your groomer may need a brief moment to wash hands, take a restroom break, or assist another staff member with another pet—such as a puppy, senior dog, or nervous pet—may require an extra set of hands for comfort or safety during a procedure like nail trimming.

Whatever the reason, the crate time is always short, supervised, and done for safety. We are not a “free-range” grooming salon; we do not allow pets from different families to interact directly with one another. This policy prevents accidental injuries, stress, and unnecessary excitement.

For clients who prefer zero crate time, we do offer an Express Grooming Service (sometimes called “hand-to-hand grooming”). This option allows your pet to be groomed straight through woth no time in a crate. It is only booked as a groomer’s first appointment of the day, requires advance scheduling, special accommodations, and carries an additional fee due to the dedicated one-on-one handling it involves.

Crates are simply a safe, secure space where your pet can relax and observe while we prepare for their turn. Safety, comfort, and gentle handling are always our top priorities.

We make every effort to keep the amount of time any pet needs to be muzzled to an absolute minimum

There are certain circumstances in which protective device may be necessary. For example, some small dogs may try to nip during specific parts of the grooming process—such as nail trimming, clipping the fur around the pads of the feet, or trimming the fur on the front legs. In these cases, we may use an Elizabethan collar (cone) rather than a muzzle. This allows us to safely protect our hands while keeping your dog more comfortable and able to breathe and see normally.

With larger dogs, it’s not uncommon for some to become defensive during nail trimming only. In these situations, we may need to use a muzzle temporarily to prevent injury. A single well-placed bite can cause serious and even permanent nerve damage to a groomer’s hands, so safety must come first for everyone involved.

It is very rare for a dog to require a muzzle for the entire grooming. When this is necessary, we make the family aware and discuss the situation honestly. Our goal is to remove the muzzle whenever possible—especially during parts of the groom where the dog is relaxed and cooperative.

We do not muzzle dogs for brushing or combing. If a dog tries to bite during brushing, it’s because the process is causing discomfort—usually due to matting or skin sensitivity. In those cases, we will trim the coat shorter rather than force the pet through pain or fear.

Our approach is built on compassion, understanding, and respect for every animal’s comfort level. Muzzles are used only as a temporary safety measure, never as punishment, and always with the goal of keeping everyone safe.

We accept cash, checks, credit cards, and debit cards for the cost of grooming; however tips can only be paid in cash. Tips made on a card or apps like Venmo make it too difficult for our groomers to split the tips with their bathers.

Payment is due at the time of service, and we kindly ask that all checks be made payable to our salon.

If you ever have questions about pricing or payment options, please feel free to ask—we’re always happy to assist.

A comfort groom is a grooming approach designed specifically for pets who may not be able to tolerate the full length or detail of a traditional grooming appointment. The focus is on your pet’s well-being, comfort, and safety—not on achieving a perfect show-style trim.

Comfort Grooms are often ideal for:

• Senior pets who may tire easily or have mobility issues.
• Pets with health conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, or diabetes.
• Anxious or fearful pets who become stressed during extended handling.
• Dogs recovering from surgery or illness, where minimal stress is essential.

During a Comfort Groom, we prioritize what your pet can handle safely that day. This might include a gentle bath, drying, nail trim, sanitary cleanup, and coat tidying—while omitting or shortening any steps that cause distress or fatigue.

Our goal is always to make your pet feel clean, cared for, and comfortable, while protecting their physical and emotional health. Comfort Grooms are a wonderful way to maintain hygiene and dignity for pets who may not be suited for long or detailed grooming sessions.

Carding is a specialized grooming technique used primarily for double-coated or hand-stripped breeds such as terriers, spaniels, and some sporting breeds. The process involves using a carding knife or stripping tool to gently remove dead undercoat and loose hair by hand, rather than clipping it off.

Carding helps maintain the natural texture, color, and condition of the coat. It allows new, healthy hair to grow in while keeping the coat close to its proper breed standard. Unlike shaving, which can alter the coat’s growth pattern and texture, carding preserves the integrity of the coat and supports healthy skin. Because carding is a highly detailed, labor-intensive technique, it is offered on an hourly basis at $150 per hour, typically scheduled in increments of 30 minutes. The amount of time needed depends on the size of the dog, coat condition, and the specific breed’s requirements.

Carding requires significant hand strength, precision, and repetitive motion, which can cause wear and tear on a groomer’s hands. For that reason, we carefully schedule these sessions to ensure that both the pet and the groomer remain comfortable throughout the process.

This technique is best suited for owners who wish to maintain their dog’s natural coat quality and appearance—particularly for show dogs or those whose coat texture and color are important to preserve.

Yes! We love showing off our freshly groomed guests. We take a photo of your dog once their grooming is complete, and we typically post those photos at the end of the day on our Facebook and Instagram pages, which are Reigning Cats and Dogs and @reigningcatsanddogsnj respectively.

You’re welcome to browse our social media posts if you’d like to reference a previous photo when requesting a particular style or length for a future visit. Many families find it helpful to point to a picture of their own dog—or another client’s groom—that matches the look they prefer.

If you do not wish to have your pet’s photo shared on social media, just let us know. We completely respect your privacy and will make a note in your pet’s record to ensure their photos remain private.

We’re proud of every pet we groom, and we love giving families a way to see their pets looking their best. Sharing those happy faces is one of our favorite parts of the day!

No, we do not accept pets with fleas. If your pet has fleas, please treat them before coming to the salon. Your veterinarian can recommend the safest and most effective flea prevention or treatment for your individual pet.

If a pet is brought into the salon and found to have fleas, there will be a $40 sanitation fee applied. This fee helps cover the cost of treating and disinfecting our salon to prevent fleas from spreading to other pets or lingering in the environment.

Why do my dog’s dewclaws seem to grow faster than the other nails? Did you forget to clip them?

It might seem that way—but rest assured, we didn’t forget them! Dewclaws (the small nails located higher up on your dog’s leg) naturally grow faster than the other nails. This is completely normal and not a sign that they were missed during grooming.

Unlike the rest of your dog’s nails, which wear down naturally when walking on pavement or other rough surfaces, dewclaws don’t make contact with the ground. Because they aren’t exposed to the same friction, they grow continuously and can appear long again much sooner.

We always check and trim dewclaws during every grooming session when they are present and safely accessible. However, because of their faster growth rate, some dogs may need a touch-up nail trim between grooms—especially small breeds or dogs with rapidly growing nails.

If you ever notice your dog’s dewclaws starting to curl or catch on fabrics, it’s a good time to schedule a quick nail trim visit. Keeping those nails short helps prevent painful twisting or injury.

So, no—we didn’t forget them! They simply grow faster by nature.

Yes, we do! Your dog’s nails should ideally be trimmed every month to maintain proper paw health and comfort. Even smooth-coated dogs that don’t need full grooming as frequently often benefit from regular nail trims to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

We schedule nail trim appointments at the end of the day. This timing allows us to ensure that a grooming table is available and that your pet can be handled safely without interrupting full grooming sessions already in progress.

We do require proof of an up-to-date Rabies vaccination for all pets visiting our salon, even for nail trims.

To book your nail trim, please text or call us to schedule an appointment in advance. This helps us plan appropriately and ensures your pet receives prompt, attentive service when you arrive. A nail trim visit takes about 5 minutes.

It’s completely normal for dogs to feel either very relaxed or unusually energetic after a grooming appointment. Grooming can be both physically and mentally stimulating, similar to how people might feel after a busy day at the spa or the salon.

Some pets feel tired afterward because they’ve been standing, moving, and engaging their attention for an extended period. Even when they’re calm, the experience of being washed, dried, brushed, and styled requires focus and cooperation. Once they’re home, that accumulated effort can make them ready for a long nap.

Other pets may feel hyper after grooming. This is also completely normal. After staying still for much of their appointment, they often release stored-up energy when they return home. The sensation of being freshly bathed, trimmed, and lighter on their feet can make them feel exuberant and playful.

Both reactions are natural. Your pet’s energy level should return to normal within a few hours. To help them transition comfortably, offer a quiet space to rest, fresh water, and their usual routine.

If your dog ever appears unsteady, weak, or unusually lethargic (which is rare), please contact us and your veterinarian — just to be sure nothing else is going on.

While this is something your veterinarian can explain to you, we are also often asked why puppies need to have a series of vaccinations and why we require a distemper/parvo complex vaccination to be given at 16 weeks of age or older even though the breeder, pet store or rescue organization might have administered these at two and three months of age.

When a puppy is born, the immune system is still developing. Nursing provides maternal antibodies if the puppy’s mother received vaccines in her lifetime. These powerful immune proteins offer temporary protection against diseases like distemper, parvovirus, and adenovirus. Between 6 and 16 weeks of age, this protection slowly fades. As the protection wanes, the puppy becomes vulnerable.

Maternal antibodies can neutralize a vaccine before it has the chance to work — a phenomenon known as the window of susceptibility.  When a first vaccine is given to young puppies, maternal antibodies might still be strong and block it from working properly. If a vaccine is given too late, the antibodies may already be too weak to protect the puppy from disease. Because each puppy’s body clears these antibodies at a slightly different rate, there is no single perfect vaccination date.

That’s why veterinarians recommend a series of vaccines every 3–4 weeks: Each booster provides another opportunity for the puppy’s immune system to respond as soon as the maternal antibodies fade.

By about 14-16 weeks, the puppy’s immune system is mature enough to provide complete, lasting protection for one year. Stopping the series early can leave gaps in this armor, leaving a puppy unprotected. This is why a puppy needs to receive a distemper complex vaccination at 16 weeks of age or older to be protected for one year. 

The distemper complex vaccinations should be given every three to four weeks until the age of 8 to 16 weeks. At 16 weeks of age, your veterinarian will give you a receipt stating that this vaccination is good for one year.

Many veterinarians administer the rabies vaccination between three and six months of age. This first rabies vaccination will only be good for one year. The 2nd and future rabies vaccinations will be good for three years. This has to do with your dog’s ability to hold on to that immune protection, after having seen this vaccination before.  If you go to a new veterinarian that has not issued your pet a rabies vaccination before, will give you a one-year certificate unless you show proof that your pet has had a previous rabies vaccination. It is important if you are seeing a new veterinarian and getting a rabies vaccination that you bring the old rabies vaccination certificate with you to show the new veterinarian. 

 The Bordetella vaccination, leptospirosis vaccination, Lyme’s and influenza vaccinations should be discussed with your veterinarian based on lifestyle and exposure. Most groomers and boarding facilities either recommend or require the Bordetella or kennel cough vaccination.

At one year and four months of age, many veterinarians administer vaccinations again. Some veterinarians issue a receipt for the distemper complex vaccination to be good for one year and some veterinarians issue this vaccination to be good for three years. Even if your veterinarian gives your dog a certificate stating a distemper complex vaccination and new rabies vaccination are both good for three years, it is very important for your pet to get an annual checkup.

The exception to this three-year rabies vaccination rule would be for cats being given what is called a Purevax rabies vaccination. Purevax was developed specifically to reduce reactions to the rabies vaccination but can only protect cats for one year. There is currently no Purevax for dog rabies inoculation.

Service Area — Bergen County & Rockland County

Convenient to Northern New Jersey and Rockland, NY

Reigning Cats and Dogs is located in Hillsdale, New Jersey, in the heart of the Pascack Valley. Because of our quiet, one-on-one, all-inclusive grooming experience, families travel from all over Bergen County and Rockland County for stress-free, luxury express grooming for small dogs and cats.

Below is a guide to help pet parents easily see their approximate travel time to our micro-salon.

Bergen County → Approximate Drive Times to Hillsdale, NJ

0–10 Minutes:
Hillsdale (0), Westwood (~5), River Vale (~5), Emerson (~5), Park Ridge (~6), Woodcliff Lake (~6), Montvale (~8), Washington Township (~8), Old Tappan (~10), Oradell (~10), Saddle River (~11)

11–15 Minutes:
Ho Ho Kus (~12), River Edge (~13), Waldwick (~14), Harrington Park (~14), Northvale (~14), Norwood (~14), Mahwah (~15), Paramus (~15), Ramsey (~15), Ridgewood (~15), Demarest (~15), Upper Saddle River (~16), Midland Park (~16), New Milford (~16)

16–20 Minutes:
Glen Rock (~17), Haworth (~17), Bergenfield (~18), Closter (~18), Dumont (~18), Fair Lawn (~18), Allendale (~18), Cresskill (~20), Maywood (~20), Rockleigh (~20), Rochelle Park (~20), Wyckoff (~20)

21–25 Minutes:
Hackensack (~22), Elmwood Park (~22), Saddle Brook (~22), Teaneck (~22), Tenafly (~22), Hasbrouck Heights (~23), Lodi (~23), South Hackensack (~23), Teterboro (~23), Bogota (~24), Garfield (~24–25), Little Ferry (~24), Lyndhurst (~24), Wood-Ridge (~24), Carlstadt (~25), Englewood (~25), Englewood Cliffs (~25), Leonia (~25), Wallington (~25)

26–30 Minutes:
Fort Lee (~26), East Rutherford (~26), Palisades Park (~26), Rutherford (~26), Cliffside Park (~27), Ridgefield Park (~27), Fairview (~28), North Arlington (~28), Ridgefield (~28), Franklin Lakes (~25–30), Alpine (~30), Edgewater (~30)

Rockland County → Approximate Drive Times to Hillsdale, NJ

10–15 Minutes:
Chestnut Ridge (~10–12), Tappan (~12–13), Nanuet (~12–14), Airmont (~12–15), Tallman (~14–16), Orangeburg (~14–16), Bardonia (~14–15)

16–20 Minutes:
Spring Valley (~16–18), Blauvelt (~16–18), Nyack (~17), Village of Nyack (~17), Valley Cottage (~17–19), Upper Nyack (~18), South Nyack (~18–20), Monsey (~18–20), Suffern (~18–20), Montebello (~18–20), Congers (~18–20), Palisades (~18–20)

20–25 Minutes:
Piermont (~20), New City (~20), Pomona – Ramapo side (~20–22), Kaser (~20–22), Viola (~20–22), Village of Pomona – Haverstraw side (~20–25), New Hempstead (~22–25), Hillburn (~22–24), New Square (~24–26), Village of West Haverstraw (~25–27), Village of Haverstraw (~26–28)

26–35 Minutes:
Sloatsburg (~26–28), Haverstraw – Town (~25–30), Sterling Forest (~28–30), Stony Point (CDP) (~30–32), Jones Point (~30–33), Stony Point – Town (~30–35), Tomkins Cove (~32–35)

On Mondays, we groom our friends who are immune compromised, or on chemotherapy. Any dogs who have not been exposed to other dogs in the last two weeks are welcome on Mondays. If your dog has not been to daycare, the dog park, the veterinarian, playing with other dogs or boarding, they can come on Mondays. We ask this of our Monday clients because it reduces the chances of our more fragile dogs from getting more ill. It is our quietest day of the week and a great day for dogs who would enjoy our quietest day.

During your pet’s grooming appointment, we clip the nails to an appropriate length, but we don’t buff or file them as part of the regular service. Filing requires extra time and specialized equipment, so it’s offered as an additional service at $12. Freshly clipped nails can feel sharper because the newly trimmed edge hasn’t been worn down yet. This is completely normal.  As your dog walks on everyday surfaces, especially concrete surfaces, the edges naturally file down and become smoother within a day or two. If you would prefer the nails to be softened right away, just let us know and we can add the buffing service to your pet’s grooming experience.

Yes, we do accept titers in lieu of vaccinations. We simply ask that you provide either an expiration date or your veterinarian’s recommendation for when the titers should be rechecked. This helps us keep accurate records and ensure your pet stays protected. We also like to remind families that an annual check-up with your veterinarian is still very important. Even when using titers instead of traditional vaccines, regular wellness exams help monitor your pet’s overall health and catch any concerns early. If you have any questions about what to submit, we are happy to help.

Doodles tend to mat faster than purebred Poodles because their coats are a genetic blend of two very different coat types. While Poodles have a predictable, tightly curled single coat, Doodles inherit mixed-texture hair from the breeds they are crossed with.

Many of the breeds used to create Doodles naturally shed, and that shedding hair does not fall away cleanly once mixed with Poodle coat. Instead, it:

• Gets caught in the Poodle-like curls

• Twists and locks into the surrounding hair

• Creates dense tangles close to the skin

This combination of shedding hair + curly coat is one of the main reasons Doodles mat so quickly.

In addition, Doodles often have:

• A dense, cottony coat that traps moisture

• Soft, long hair that knots easily

• Inconsistent curl patterns—straight patches mixed with curly patches—that cause hair to rub and tangle

• More undercoat than a purebred Poodle

Purebred Poodles, by comparison, have a genetically consistent single coat with minimal shedding, making their coat more predictable and easier to maintain.

Because of the blended genetics, Doodles generally require more frequent brushing at home and more frequent professional grooming to stay mat-free.

Some dogs—especially dogs over 15 years old (which we call super seniors), but occasionally even younger dogs—can experience what looks like a “blow-dryer panic attack” during grooming. Although it may resemble a seizure, it is typically a moment of sensory overload and sudden disorientation, not a true neurological event.

During one of these episodes, a dog may:

• Become disoriented or “glazed over”
• Show a textbook, rhythmic, disoriented barking cycle 
• Bark repetitively and seem unable to stop
• Appear unable to recognize or respond to the groomer’s voice
• Move in a panicked or uncoordinated way
• Inadvertently bite or snap due to confusion

This can happen even in dogs with years of positive grooming history. We see this most often in super seniors, but we have also seen it in dogs with many positive grooming experiences over the years. Some dogs become overwhelmed not by the noise, but by the motion of the high-velocity air, which can affect their equilibrium and lead to sudden disorientation.

Spaniels in particular are affected due to being naturally accustomed to loud sounds—this is part of their heritage as hunting dogs. However, in some Spaniels the movement of the air from the dryer seems to disrupt their inner-ear balance, causing this unexpected reaction.

If a dog experiences a blow-dryer panic episode:

1. We turn off all the high-velocity dryers in the salon immediately.
2. We give the dog a moment to calm and reorient. Sometimes they regain cognition. If we let them smell a treat or carry them outside for a moment.
3. For all future appointments, we switch exclusively to the slower, gentle, billowing air of our fluff dryer on the grooming table.
4. Future grooms may take longer, depending on coat length and density, because fluff drying is significantly slower and more delicate than high-velocity drying.

This approach keeps the dog as safe, calm, and comfortable as possible moving forward.

Some families prefer to keep the same groomer for every visit, and for some pets that consistency works well. Having the same groomer helps build a trusting relationship between your pet and the groomer. That said, there are also benefits to variety. Younger dogs especially can benefit from being handled by different groomers. This helps them learn that many people can be kind and gentle, reinforcing trust and social confidence. For senior pets, continuity can be comforting. Regular grooming with the same person allows the groomer to notice subtle changes such as stiffness, arthritis, or areas that may need extra support or care. Familiar handling also helps reduce anxiety in older pets who thrive on predictable routines. Of course, if you ever feel a grooming visit did not meet your expectations, please let us know what you did or did not like.

We take every possible precaution to keep our salon exceptionally clean, healthy, and safe for every pet in our care. We require current vaccinations for all clients and follow strict cleaning and sanitizing protocols between every appointment.

To further protect the health of our clients and pets, we have installed a REME HALO induct air purification system in our HVAC unit.

About the REME HALO System:

• The REME HALO uses a combination of UV-C light and a proprietary reflective electro-magnetic energy (REME) cell to produce very low levels of hydrogen peroxide ions and bipolar ionized particles throughout the salon’s air system.
• These ions actively reduce airborne and surface contaminants such as bacteria, mold spores, viruses, pet dander, and odors, unlike passive filters that only treat air passing directly though them.
• The system continuously purifies the air while the HVAC is running, creating a cleaner environment for both pets and people.
• It helps reduce airborne particles, microbes, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and clients often notice fresher air and fewer lingering pet odors as a result.

Even with these preventive measures, it is important to understand that some dog illnesses are airborne and can still be transmitted through casual, indirect exposure, just as a child might catch a minor cold from another child in a social setting. While no space can be one hundred percent free of every airborne germ, our salon goes well beyond typical cleaning practices to maintain an exceptionally hygienic environment.

We make every effort to keep the amount of time any pet needs to be muzzled to an absolute minimum. There are certain circumstances in which protective devices may be necessary. For example, some small dogs may try to nip during specific parts of the grooming process, such as nail trimming, clipping the fur around the pads of the feet, or trimming the fur on the front legs. In these cases, we may use an Elizabethan collar (cone) rather than a muzzle. This allows us to safely protect our hands while keeping your dog more comfortable and able to breathe and see normally. With larger dogs, it is not uncommon for some to become defensive during nail trimming only. In these situations, we may need to use a muzzle temporarily to prevent injury. A single well-placed bite can cause serious and even permanent nerve damage to a groomer’s hands, so safety must come first for everyone involved.

It is very rare for a dog to require a muzzle for the entire grooming. When this is necessary, we make the family aware and discuss the situation honestly. Our goal is to remove the muzzle whenever possible, especially during parts of the groom where the dog is relaxed and cooperative.

We do not muzzle dogs for brushing and coming. If a dog tries to bite during brushing, it is because the process is causing discomfort, usually due to matting or skin sensitivity. In those cases, we will trim the coat shorter rather than force the pet through pain or fear.

Yes, we do. Your dog’s nails should ideally be trimmed every month to maintain proper paw health and comfort. Even smooth-coated dogs often benefit from regular nail trims to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. We schedule nail trim appointments at the end of the day. This timing allows us to ensure that a grooming table is available. And that your pet can be handled safely without interrupting full grooming sessions already in progress. We do require proof of an up-to-date Rabies vaccination for all pets visiting out salon, even for anil trims. To book your nail trim, please text or call us to schedule an appointment in advance. This helps us plan appropriately and ensures your pet receives prompt, attentive service when you arrive. A nail trim visit takes about five minutes.

During your pet’s grooming appointment, we gently clean away the buildup of hardened tears, debris, and crust that collects in the corners and underneath the eyes. This area is delicate, especially in breeds with tear staining, shorter muzzles, or fuller facial fur. The skin underneath tear buildup can become red, sensitive, and irritated. This redness is already present before grooming but is often hidden beneath accumulated tear crust. Once the hardened debris is softened in the bath, cleaned, and removed, the underlying skin becomes visible which makes the redness more noticeable. The cause for this is that when tear buildup sits for an extended period without being cleaned away at home, the skin underneath stays moist for long periods. This is like how any area of human skin can become pink or irritated when something stays against it for too long. Families can prevent this by regularly cleaning their dog’s eyes at home. We recommend gently wiping beneath the eyes every other day using a soft, damp cotton pad or a pet-safe eye wipe and keeping the area dry afterwards. For pets who only have a light and soft build up, it is possible to use a fine flea comb to gently lift debris away. Do not use a flea comb if the debris is hard, crusted, or requires pulling. This can cause discomfort and skin irritation.

If your pet produces a large amount of tear discharge, develops frequent or heavy under-eye crust, has thick, colored, or excessive tearing, or has persistent redness or sensitivity, there may be an underlying medical cause such as allergies, blocked tear ducts, irritation, infection, or other eye conditions. These should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Dewclaws (the small nails on the inside of the front legs, and sometimes the back legs) grow differently from the other nails. Because they do not contact the ground, they do not wear down naturally and can grow faster and in a curved shape. When a dog goes a long time between grooming appointments or nail trims, dewclaws can grow in a tight curve and curl back toward the leg, eventually becoming embedded in the surrounding skin. If the nail grows long enough, it can pierce the skin, creating an open wound. This can happen gradually, and because the dewclaw is hidden by fur, families may not realize the nail has curved into the skin until the grooming appointment. If a dewclaw has pierced the skin, we cannot cut it.  If the nail has already penetrated the skin, trimming it in a grooming environment can cause bleeding and introduce bacteria to the wound, increasing the risk of infection. For the pet’s safety, a veterinarian must treat the area. This is considered a medical situation, not a grooming procedure. Families can prevent this by having nails trimmed every 2–4 weeks, especially dewclaws. Regular maintenance prevents curved nails and protects your pet from discomfort or injury.

The skin around a dog’s rear end is delicate, and when stool becomes trapped in the hair, it can quickly cause irritation. This is especially common in dogs with longer coats, fluffy furnishings, or soft stools.

When stool remains on the fur for any length of time, the area can become red, tender, and irritated.

This irritation is very similar to diaper rash in infants—when moisture and bacteria stay against the skin, the area becomes sore and sensitive. During grooming we clean the area thoroughly, remove any debris caught in the hair, and trim the fur around the sanitary area as part of a haircut breed’s routine trim. Once the built-up stool and hardened debris are washed away, the skin underneath may appear red or irritated. This redness is almost always already present before grooming but becomes visible after cleaning. This can be prevented with regular grooming. Dogs on a regular grooming schedule typically have shorter, tidier hair in the sanitary area which reduces buildup. The more frequently the coat is maintained, the less likely it is for long hair in this area to trap debris or create irritation.

Families can prevent rash and buildup by checking their dog’s rear daily, especially after bathroom breaks. If you notice any debris, wipe the area gently with warm water, a soft cloth, or a pet-safe wipe. Most importantly, keep your dog on a consistent grooming schedule to prevent long hair from catching stools.

You should contact a veterinarian if you notice persistent redness or irritation. These may indicate an underlying issue such as digestive upset, allergies, anal gland concerns, or infection.