GENERAL GROOMING QUESTIONS

How often should I groom my pet?

Grooming frequency depends on personal preference and your dog’s breed. Dogs needing regular haircuts should be groomed every 6 to 8 weeks, while those that shed may need grooming every 4 to 10 weeks. Consult your veterinarian for specific advice. For puppies, bathe them whenever they get dirty!

What services do you offer? (e.g., baths, haircuts, nail trims, ear cleaning)

At Hearts ‘N Tails, we offer grooming services for cats and dogs, including baths, haircuts, blow-drying, brushing, teeth cleaning, ear cleaning, nail grinding, anal gland expression (if needed), ear plucking (upon request), and sanitary shaves. We also provide nail trims and additional standalone services for your pet's needs between grooming sessions.

How long does a typical grooming session take?

Grooming sessions vary by pet. Some prefer kennel dryers over standard ones, with drying times ranging from 10 minutes to an hour. Baths typically last 1 to 2 hours, while haircuts can take 2 to 4 hours, depending on the breed. During the process, I will provide breaks for dogs that feel stressed or anxious.

Do you offer pick-up and drop-off services?

We currently don't have a system for this service, but we may implement it in the future if enough clients are interested!

What are your grooming rates?

Our grooming rates vary based on your pet's breed, size, and service. Click on below button to see service offers.

Do you offer discounts for multiple pets or frequent visits?

We are considering future implementations. Currently, we offer $5 off for referrals.

Can you accommodate my pet on short notice?

We can often accommodate short notice requests, but popular days and pets with special needs may require more time. It's best to book in advance, especially during the holiday season due to high demand!

How far in advance should I schedule an appointment?

I recommend scheduling appointments about 2 weeks in advance to secure your preferred slots. If a holiday is approaching, book as soon as possible. Our system lets you view the schedule up to next year, so for a regular schedule, it’s best to book ahead. We can always adjust appointments later if needed.

PET HEALTH AND SAFETY

Do you require vaccinations for my pet?

All pets must be vaccinated against rabies for staff safety. Other vaccines, such as bordetella, lepto-lyme, distemper, and canine influenza, are recommended.

What products do you use for grooming?

We offer a variety of shampoos and conditioners, including brands like Chi, Hempz, Furminator, and Earthbath. If you have a preferred product that we don’t stock, please let us know. We want to help make your pet comfortable!

Can you trim my dog's nails without cutting the quick?

Yes, I can help! It's common to trim too closely, but I have experience with many nail trims. I first use trimmers to shorten the nails, then a grinder to smooth and polish them.

Can you check my pet for ear mites or other health issues?

I'm not a veterinarian, so I can't diagnose extensive health issues. However, I have experience with shelter animals and can identify exterior health concerns like yeast and ear infections. I often recommend veterinary attention, but I'm happy to take a look for clients' peace of mind!

What safety precautions do you take to prevent accidents?

The key to safety when working with animals is reading their body language. If your pet is uncomfortable, we’ll find alternatives together. During grooming, I prioritize allowing pets to decompress rather than rushing through services. Accidents occur when we ignore their cues. At Hearts ‘N Tails, the pet always comes first.

Do you have experience dealing with pets with allergies or sensitivities?

I've worked with many dogs that have skin allergies or sensitivities to foods, medications, and strong shampoos. That's why we request detailed information in our new client form! We offer a variety of shampoos, conditioners, and treats to keep your pet safe and happy!

What should I do if my pet has fleas or ticks?

If your pet has fleas or ticks, start with a preventative. I use Simparica Trio for my puppy, but many clients prefer Seresto Collars. Once on a preventative, arrange for doggy daycare or a friend to watch them. Use this time to flea bomb your house, clean all surfaces, carpets, and bedding, and vacuum thoroughly. Don’t forget to schedule a grooming session with us! Consult a vet to rule out flea anemia or Lyme disease for severe cases.

PET GROOMING SPECIFICS

Can you shave my cat's fur for the summer?

Yes, we can shave a cat's fur, but we first discuss the repercussions and consider alternatives that meet your needs without shaving.

Can you dye my dog's fur a certain color?

Currently, this is not a service we offer.

How can I prevent my dog's fur from matting?

To prevent matting in your dog's coat, focus on three key things: regular brushing, grooming sessions, and positive reinforcement. If your dog dislikes brushing, use rewards to encourage good behavior. Scheduling regular grooming can also simplify maintenance. If brushing isn't feasible, consider keeping your dog's haircut short for easier care.

Can you help my dog with shedding?

We can help with your dog’s shedding! Our shampoo and conditioner combo reduces shedding over time and removes excess hair. Often, a good bath, blow dry, and brush out is all we need!

PET BEHAVIOR AND COMFORT

Do you offer grooming for aggressive or anxious pets?

We work with pets of all backgrounds and temperaments. If your pet struggles with grooming, please let us know. Kaitie has experience with shelter dogs and can handle trauma-related issues.

Our priority is your pet’s well-being. If your pet can’t handle grooming safely, we may suggest trying again later or exploring alternative options.