Grooming FAQ
Frequently Asked Grooming Questions
How far in advance do I need to make an appointment?
What vaccinations do you require?
Do you sedate dogs?
What shampoo do you use?
Will you dip my dog?
What is your "matted dog" policy?
How far in advance do I need to make an appointment?
The best way to ensure you get your dog in when you need to is to make your next appointment when you pick your dog up. However, we understand that you may not know your schedule 6 to 8 weeks in advance. In that case, give yourself at least a week lead time to get the time and day you need. Friday and Saturday appointments fill up fast, as do appointments the last few days before a holiday.
What vaccinations do you require?
Dogs must be vaccinated with the usual boosters and rabies as per Arkansas Law. We do not require, but highly recommend, the Bordatella vaccine. We will not take dogs that have been vaccinated at home.
Do you sedate dogs?
No. We will make every effort for your dog's grooming to be a comfortable and stress-free experience. However, if a dog is so nervous/aggressive or in such bad shape that it needs to be sedated for grooming, the safest course of action is to make an appointment with your vet.
What shampoo do you use?
The shampoo we use depends a great deal on the condition of your pet's coat. Our basic line of shampoos is called Bark 2 Basics. These products contain no fillers, thickeners, harsh additives, oils, lanolins or silicones. Bark-2-Basics products clean thoroughly, rinse easily and leave no residues to build-up and bind into coat. All of the Bark-2-Basics products are pH balanced for pets skin, are biodegradable, environmentally friendly and cruelty free and can be safely used on dogs, cats, puppies and kittens. We also have a hypo-allergenic perfume-free shampoo for sensitive dogs (and owners).
Will you dip my dog?
We no longer dip dogs. If your dog has fleas and ticks, he will be bathed in a natural, mild but effective flea shampoo. This will kill what is on him, but will not repel another infestation. Once your dog has been groomed, it is best to wait 24 – 48 hours before treating again.
What is your “matted dog” policy?
We know that sometimes it's possible for your pet's coat to get out of control. Mats are thick, painful tangles that form close to the skin. We will de-mat any dog on which the matting is not so severe as to cause excessive pain. We use several products to help loosen the tangles and make them easier to brush out. However if the matting is extensive, we may need to shave the coat down. It is much easier on the dog and less painful, and allows a fresh, tangle free coat to grow. When dealing with a matted animal, there is a much higher risk of accidental injury. Matting pulls at the skin and makes it much easier to knick and burn. Severe mats also may be covering up sores and wounds not previously known about. For these reasons, we require owners of these dogs to sign a release, making sure they understand the risks associated with the process. The release will outline to the owner exactly what we will be able to do to the coat.
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