Does my dog need to be groomed?

All dogs can benefit from grooming but not all dogs require it as much as others.

Please call and make a time to come in and talk to me.

 

What age does my dog start getting groomed?

We can start grooming from 16 weeks after puppy is fully vaccinated.

 

Do you do all types of dogs?

Most breeds.  Please call us to discuss if you are unsure.

 

How often should I get my dog groomed?

If your dog is a type that needs regular clipping then we recommend a minimum of every 12 weeks and as much as 6-8 weekly if you like a fluffier style.

Shedding double coated breeds could benefit from at least a helping bath and deshedding  room in the spring and autumn.

 

How long does it take?

The amount of time it takes varies by breed and service, but you can plan on it taking up to 4 hours.  We can ring when the dog is finished if you like.

 

Can I stay and watch?

We prefer the owner doesn't stay as the dogs settle better without you watching.

 

Will you put my dog in a cage?

In most cases, yes.  This is primarily for their safety and security. This means there is no chance of your dog to slip out of the door accidentally, and cannot get into a fight with another dog, nor can they be accidentally stood on by us working.

 

How do stop my dog getting knotty?

If you want a longer hairstyle you have to brush and comb your dog at least once every day or at least every other day. For easier maintenance and fewer visits to the groomers shorter styles work better.  My philosophy with matts is humanity before vanity, if I can brush and tease out little matts I will, otherwise it is kinder to take off the coat and start over.  Your dog will be happier to see the groomer if each visit is as relaxed as possible.

 

Do I have to do any aftercare?

No, just regular brushing and combing.

 

How often should bath my dog?

You can bath your dog as often as you like using a dog shampoo and conditioner.  This is important so we don’t strip the coat of essential oils.

 

What shampoo can I use in between grooms?

A specific dog shampoo and conditioner, you can purchase good quality shampoo from our shop or any good pet store.

 

I wash my dog in the river is this enough?

It won’t do any harm but it won’t really clean the dog like warm water and a lathered up shampoo.

 

My dog suffers with dry skin will that get affected during the groom?

No, we condition all coats after a shampoo to help with putting goodness back into coat and skin.

 

Will you muzzle my dog?

The dog will only be muzzled if despite firm handling and education the dog continues to bite.  Most dogs don’t want to bite, they simply want us to stop what we are doing usually brushing knots out, so we will muzzle for the part of grooming they are worried about.

 

If my dog is matted will you shave it?

This will be discussed with you on arrival.

 

Will there be any transfer of disease bringing my dog on to the SPCA site?

Extremely unlikely, no grooming clients will come into contact with shelter clients.

 

What if my dog is really nervous?

We take it nice and slow with nervous dogs, use lots of encouragement and won’t put the dog through more than they can cope with.  In the event the dog is too stressed we will stop, even if it means we can’t finish the job.

 

What are your Prices?

Please call and we can discuss your requirements.

 

Do you just do a wash and dry service?

Yes, if your dog requires just a bath and dry we can do that.  Even for dogs that don’t require a haircut it is great maintenance for coat and skin to have a professional bath and blowdry.

 

My dogs nails need clipping can you do that?

Yes, and no appointment necessary.

 

Do I need to schedule an appointment and what hours are you open?

Grooms by appointment only, we are open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 3pm.

 

Should I exercise my dog before his appointment?

If convenient please exercise and at least toilet your dog before dropping them to the groomers.  This will help with settling down and being able to concentrate while being groomed.

 

Will my dog be sedated?

No, if your dog cannot cope with being groomed we will discuss a way forward.

 

Do you charge a no show fee?

Yes, our fee is 50% of your grooming charge, payable at your next appointment.

 

If we haven’t answered any of your questions please call us direct on 07 349 2955 or email Thegroomers@rotoruaspca.org.nz.