Frequently Asked Questions

A: When you call to discuss an appointment with Valley Grooming, you are asked for information about your dog's breed, coat condition, and needs. It is important to be honest in answering these questions so we can give you an accurate time estimate. 95% of the time, we will complete the grooming process in 2 hours or less, providing your pet with a positive grooming experience.

A: In order to get an even haircut, the hair needs to be clean, so we always bathe the dog first as part of the grooming process.

A: If the hair is matted, this is a concern 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 and it may be possible to demat the coat. Unfortunately, this can sometimes be painful. In some cases, dematting may cause or reveal some skin irritation. If your dog is matted, we will discuss with you what can be done. A lot of times the hair can be de-matted without causing pain to the dog, and it may be possible to save the coat. If dematting and saving the length of the coat is your preference, there may be an additional cost due to the time spent dematting. Otherwise, we may recommend cutting the hair short. Small, or a slight amount of dematting is usually not a big issue as those can be removed without concern or damage to the skin or coat.

A: Typically dogs are like children, if your dog can see you, this usually leads to the dog wanting and trying to be with you and generally causes them to be anxious and restless. The groomer is working with sharp tools and we prefer to avoid additional stress and excitement. You are welcome to request updates during the grooming process.

A: Yes! Tara is the Owner and Operator at Valley Grooming. At this time, there are no other groomers working for Valley Grooming. Your dog will see her each time. This will help build a relationship between your dog and their groomer. It also helps Tara become familiar with your dog, and their habits, and preferences and become accustomed to what works best for your dog to reduce any stress and anxiety associated with grooming your dog.

A: Anal Glands are the scent sacs inside the dogs anus. Some dogs empty them naturally, some do not. Your groomer will check if they need to be expressed. If they need to be expressed, this is included with the bath and grooming service.

A: While in the tub we may towel dry the dog's face and/or use a high-velocity dryer that blows off the water. Most coats require this technique as it helps straighten the hair for the haircut and helps to dry the dog completely. It is warm air, and does not harm your dog, as it does not get too hot. Occasionally, we will use what is called a cage drier. This means that your dog is able to lay down in a kennel, while warm air is circulated all around them to help the drying process. This is especially handy if your dog does not tolerate the dryer around their face or feet.

A: We have dogs coming and going throughout the day and we need to have the kennel space available when your pup is finished so we can continue our work. We can usually accommodate your time needs if you will be a little late picking up or early to drop them off. But unfortunately we cannot act as a daycare. Plus, your dog is excited for you to pick them up, so they can show off how clean and fancy they are.

A: Please tell us. We aim to please. It helps to be very specific when dropping your dog off and discussing the desired results with your groomer. If there are little things you would like different when you pick up your dog, like a little more off a certain area, we can do that right away.

A: Here at Valley Grooming, we have a variety of shampoos depending on what will work best for your dog. If your dog needs a special medicated shampoo, please bring it with you to your appointment.

A: Yes and No. We do not offer flea treatments. However we have a shampoo that is gentle and natural and helps to kill the fleas. During the bathing and blow drying process, 99% of the fleas are removed from your dog. Please be sure to tell your groomer if you know your dog has fleas, or if you are unsure, your groomer can let you know during pickup, so that you are able to get the treatment you want for at home between grooming appointments.

A: Valley Grooming accepts cash and debit/credit cards.