Frequently Asked Questions..
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Keeping a dog calm and relaxed is one of the key requirements to be a groomer. We understand that some dogs may have had a bad experience during grooming and now not enjoy the process. This is one of the areas we specialise in, through patience, the right equipment, time and most of all love we are confident we can make grooming enjoyable for any dog. We are always happy to work with unsure dogs and try our best to make it as least stressful as possible. We will always try our best to complete the groom but if the dog is too stressed we will not force them into anything and only positively reassure them, even if this means your dog is not finished. This may mean your dog doesn’t have perfectly trimmed paws or completely dry ears as we won’t push them past their comfort zone but hopefully in time a bond will be built and more can be completed as they learn what to expect from the grooming process.
We always work extra carefully with older dogs and we will ensure two members of staff are available to support the dog if needs be. With older dogs we tend to ‘do what we can’ and prioritise making them comfortable over their aesthetics. We are experienced with deaf, blind and arthritic dogs. If in any doubts please consult your vet who will help you decide whether there would be any adverse effects in grooming your older dog.
At Collar & Comb Grooming we like to have a difference to our grooming process. Many dogs do not like being in crates or cages and can become anxious if they are placed in one. Here, we let the dogs have the free run of the salon and have several large spacious 'lounges' for those who prefer to be away from other dogs or may be dog re-active for example.
We have internal CCTV to monitor the dogs throughout the shop to ensure their safety.
We prefer that owners don’t stay as most dogs are like children and settle down once their owner has left. If you arrive early to collect your dog and see it on the table, please do not enter the shop as your pooch loves you very much they will wiggle and move around trying to get to you which is not safe and will make it difficult to complete the rest of the groom. Please feel free to call us any time during your dog’s treatment to check how they’re getting on.
We will only groom dogs if it is in their best interest and will not cause them any harm or discomfort.
For this reason, please ensure that you inform us of any special needs, ailments or ongoing veterinary treatments, so that we can ensure the comfort of your dog at all times – enabling us to avoid any sensitive areas, supporting any injured or tired limbs etc. If in any doubt, please check with your vet before booking an appointment.
The wellbeing and comfort of your pet is extremely important to us but of course you also want your pet to look it’s best.
We will always discuss the groom with you before we commence but there are times that the cut may be different to how you imagined it.
If you are unhappy with Sam’s work please do raise your concerns at the time or come back to the salon to discuss any remedy and to ensure we share the same expectations next time your pet visits us.
We understand that everyday life can sometimes mean we have to alter arrangements. If you are running late, please call the salon and let us know and we will do everything we can to accommodate you on the same day.
If you need to cancel, we do ask that you try and contact us at least 24-hours in advance so that we can allocate the slot to other customers. At the time of cancellation, we will try and arrange an alternative appointment with you.