FAQ

Why Is Your Lobby Area Closed?

As a precaution and to prevent pets interacting in a close proximity, our lobby remains closed. This way we can coordinate and manage the flow of pets being checked in and out of our grooming salon. We are proud to be a AKC S.A.F.E. Grooming Salon.

DO YOU USE TRANQUILIZERS?

No! Absolutely not, only a licensed vet should tranquilize a pet. We do not recommend that you get your pet tranquilized as they fight it and it only makes things worse. If we can’t handle your pet there will be no charge.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD MY PET BE GROOMED?

A lot depends on the pets lifestyle and living conditions, as a general guide. Dogs who have their hair cut in particular clips such as Poodles, Cockers, Lhasa Apsos, Shih Tzus, Bischons etc. should be groomed every 4-6 weeks. Bath dogs such as Labradors, Shepherds, Collies, etc. and cats should be groomed every 6-8 weeks.

HOW LONG DOES THE GROOMING TAKE?

When you arrange an appointment with us, you are provided with a dedicated pet groomer that will discuss your pets grooming requirements and in over 95% of the time will complete the grooming process in 2hours or less, providing your pet with a positive grooming experience in a modern and spacious facility.

DO YOU BATHE THE DOG FIRST?

In order to get an even hair cut, the hair needs to be clean, so we always bathe the dog as part of grooming. Depending on your dog’s breed and style, the groomer may do a “rough cut” first. After the rough cut, the dog is washed, dried and then the haircut is completed. In other cases, we may wash and dry the dog and then the haircut is completed. Most dogs are washed using hypoallergenic shampoo, but we have many alternative shampoos depending on your pet’s needs. After the dog is washed and rinsed, we use a conditioner as well.

CAN YOU GROOM MY DOG TO BREED STANDARD?

Yes, our groomers are familiar with most of the breed standards and are very experienced with the more popular breeds. Many clients do not groom to the breed standard because of the level of maintenance required. If you want to get your dog groomed to the breed standard, it is helpful to review with the groomer the breed page in the “All Breed Dog Grooming Guide” and/or bring pictures. Each dog is different and each person’s needs vary; so a consultation can help you know your options and decide accordingly.

CAN YOU DO A PUPPY CUT?

“Puppy Cut” is a loosely descriptive term. With most breeds, we maintain the cute puppy look. Most of the time, this means the hair is cut to the same length all over. Many people choose a puppy cut because it is easy to maintain but there is usually a choice of length. Your groomer can work with you to choose a style, which works best for your dog.

MY DOGS HAIR IS KNOTTED. DO I NEED TO CUT THE HAIR SHORT?

If the hair is allowed to knot or develop “matts”, this is unhealthy for the dog’s skin. Matting gets worse if the coat gets wet. Before washing the dog, it is necessary to brush out all the knots. If the hair is matted, it may be possible to “de matt” the coat. Unfortunately, this can be painful. In some cases, de-matting may cause or reveal skin irritation. If your dog is matted, we will advise you what can be done. If the hair can be de-matted without causing pain to the dog, it may be possible to save the coat. If the hair can be de-matted, there may be an additional cost. Otherwise, we may recommend cutting the hair short. If the hair is matted, we recommend meeting with one of our groomers beforehand so we can discuss your options.

DO I GET THE SAME GROOMER EACH TIME?

Some clients prefer to keep the same groomer. If your dog is nervous and/or you have specific requests, we find and encourage that requesting the same groomer works best because it fosters a relationship between the client, groomer and dog.

CAN I STAY WITH MY DOG AND WATCH?

All our grooming rooms our visible and we encourage customers take a tour of our clean and modern facilities, However, if your dog can see you, this usually leads to the dog trying to be with you and generally causes them to be anxious and wrestles. The groomer is working with sharp tools and looks to avoid additional stress and excitement. If you want to watch, take a peek from a distance; but if you need to watch the entire time, you should talk with the groomer first who can discuss the circumstances with you. Alternatively you should consider mobile grooming.

WHAT ARE ANAL GLANDS?

They are the scent sacs inside the dogs anus. Some dogs empty them naturally, some do not. Your groomer can check if they need to be emptied /expressed.

HOW IS MY DOG DRIED?

Usually with a combination of methods (the coat determines the drying techniques). While in the tub we may towel dry the dog and/or use a high-velocity dryer that blows off the majority of water. Most coats require a hand drying technique with a hand held force dryer. The groomer may finish up with a stand dryer while your dog is on the grooming table. We have open cage dryers that the dog can sit or lay in which circulates cool air all around them. During all of these drying phases your dog is being supervised. All of these drying methods are considered safe and have been in use for many years by grooming salons, veterinarians and kennels.

WHAT IF I DO NOT LIKE THE GROOM WHEN IT IS FINISHED?

Please tell us. We aim to satisfy. On the occasion where a haircut is not to your liking and it is a matter of a little more trimming here or there, the groomer can do it right away. In some instances, we may ask you to come again on another day in which case we can start again.

WHAT ABOUT CATS?

Yes we groom cats, bathe and a brush as well as haircuts and styling. Our experienced cat groomer’s work with your cat throughout the grooming process in a relaxed atmosphere designed to minimize stress. We do not sedate cats; very few cats truly do need any sort of sedative in order to be groomed. We handle each cat in such a way that the need for drugs of any kind is rare. If we do think your cat would best be served by receiving sedation, we will refer you to your veterinarian.

CAN I LEAVE MY PET THERE ALL DAY?

Unfortunately not as we are not a pet daycare center. We want your pet to enjoy their stay with us and not have to kennel them after grooming. By making an appointment, 99% of the pets we groom are completed within 2 hours and your prompt pick up is appreciated.

WHY DON'T YOU SHOW YOUR GROOMING PRICES?

There are a number of factors that need to be considered: The pets age, weight, temperament, coat condition and desired style. If you contact us, we can provide you with a guide price and then our trained groomers can assess the pet and provide you with a specific price.

WILL MY PET BE WASHED IN COLD WATER?

No, our modern grooming van comes fully equipped and has installed a large capacity hot water tank that provides plentiful warm water for many baths.

DO YOU USE ELECTRICITY AND WATER?

Our van is fully self-contained with plenty of fresh water, however we will need to connect our 100ft cord to an electrical cored on arrival, which powers some equipment inside the van.

CAN I SEE THE INSIDE OF YOUR VAN?

Absolutely, you can view some images on our website and/or feel free to ask for a tour when we arrive for your appointment.

DO YOU TAKE CREDIT CARDS?

Yes, we do! Cash, check or credit cards.
NSF check we charge a $30 bank Administration fee.

MY SCHEDULE IS REALLY BUSY AND I DON’T ALWAYS HAVE TIME TO SCHEDULE A SERVICE. HOW CAN YOU ACCOMMODATE ME?

For the first few visits we want the owner present. Our first visit will be about discussing styling and health concerns, as well as just getting to know your pet. If you are pleased with our service, and comfortable with making arrangements, we can set up regular ongoing appointments where your presence is not required.

WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY?

In the unlikely event that you do not cancel your appointment in 24 hours or if or there is no available parking when we arrive and we are unable to service your pet, a $30 fee will be charged.

HOW MUCH DOES GROOMING COST?

The cost depends on a number of factors: the breed, its coat condition, age and temperament and what grooming service is required. To receive a guide price please call us on (310) 784-0566

WHAT TYPE OF SHAMPOOS DO YOU USE?

We have a comprehensive range of professional premium quality shampoos and conditioners. These products are natural, organic, safe, and environmentally friendly and help maintain and keep your pet looking and feeling great.

WHY DON'T YOU SHOW YOUR GROOMING PRICES?

Lucky Dawg Pet Services