Here are a collection of the most common questions I get asked about house-call grooming and how it works. If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for here, please don’t hesitate to send me an email or give me a call!

Do you use a mobile grooming van or trailer? 

Nope! The grooming is done in the comfort of your pup’s home. I can set up wherever is most convenient for you; a bathroom is the most common area, but anywhere that is comfortable for the dog is perfectly fine. I have everything that I need to complete the groom from start to finish, including towels and a vacuum for cleanup.

What are the benefits of a house-call over a grooming van or salon? 

One of the biggest benefits of a house-call is that you can keep an eye on your dog throughout the entire grooming process. Some of my clients like to sit and chat, others like to take care of chores, run errands, or just relax in front of the TV. I only ask that if your dog gets overly excited with their owner in the room, that you allow me space to complete the groom – but other than that it is entirely up to you.

House-calls are also incredibly convenient; no drop-off or pick-up times at a salon. My schedule revolves around your schedule, not the other way around. There is no oversized van in your driveway or street, which makes appointments at apartments much simpler.

After working in many salons, veterinarians offices, and canine boarding facilities, I’ve learned that dogs are always more comfortable in their home. Even your type-A golden retriever may get over-excited in a salon or kennel setting, which can make their grooming experience more stressful than it needs to be. In their own home, they feel safe and know that their guardian is close by. This makes things easier for them and me, and it will give you the peace-of-mind of knowing that you can keep an eye on them and make sure they are comfortable. Plus, when your pup is done with their groom, they are already home! No wait times in a noisy kennel.

Also, even if your dog is properly vaccinated, there are still some contagious diseases and conditions that can be contracted in area where there are lots of dogs. While this typically isn’t an issue, it is something to keep in mind for older dogs or dogs with certain pre-existing conditions.

Do I need to provide any materials, like towels or shampoo? 

Nope! I bring absolutely everything I will need. I only require a bathtub, sink (for the smaller pups), a place to set up the grooming table, and an outlet for the clippers/dryer.

Won’t there be a huge mess afterward? 

I bring cleaning supplies, including a small vacuum cleaner. I do my best to leave the area as clean as it was when I arrived, and I will disinfect any countertops/sinks/baths that I use. While grooming, I discard the bulk of the hair into a trash bag. Of course, there is still the potential for small amounts of hair to be left behind, but there certainly won’t be a big mess afterward.

Will the dog hair clog my drain? 

I use drain protectors in the tub or sink to prevent this, and I brush out the pup thoroughly before bathing them to remove as much loose coat as possible before bathing. If absolutely necessary, I have a Zip It drain cleaning tool to remove hair that made it past the drain protector, but so far it has not been needed.

What kind of products do you use? 

I use Top Performance Fresh Pet Shampoo as a base, and Espree Luxury Remoisturizer to condition. I also use South Bark’s Blueberry Facial for faces, as it is very gentle and tear-free.

After the bath, I use The Stuff Dog Conditioner to condition (especially on ears, tails, and other areas prone to matting) and Davis Quick-Dry to minimize dry time.

Do you require vaccinations? 

I do not require proof of vaccinations, however I do have every new client sign a waver stating that their dog is up to date.

Do you use muzzles? 

I do have muzzles available if the situation calls for it, but I rarely use them. On those rare occasions, I will only use the muzzle when necessary. For example, if a dog gets nippy when I’m working on their feet, I will only muzzle them when working on that area.

If your pup has had a bad experience with a previous groomer, sometimes they might be inclined to nip when certain areas of their body are touched (i.e. feet, hindquarters). With your permission, I can help re-acclimate them to the grooming process using training treats and positive re-enforcement. I would much prefer to spend the time building a good rapport with your pup so that the groom is easier on them and myself in the future. So muzzles are a last resort, but sometimes they are necessary; it’s no fun being bit!

How long does the groom take? 

This will vary wildly from dog to dog and place to place, but usually somewhere between 1 to 3 hours. New clients often take longer on their first appointment as I am getting to know your pup(s). I do my best to be efficient, but I do take my time to make sure your pup is as comfortable as possible. After all, it is their spa day!

How much does it cost? 

Much like time, there is a very wide price range depending on services, breed, size, temperament, condition of the coat, etc. Please don’t hesitate to contact me for a quote (817-366-7468). I will request some basic info on your dog, as well as a photograph if possible. Once I meet your pup, I can give you a more accurate estimate based on their condition/temperament.

If you have more questions or want more details, please email me at poseyspups@gmail.com or give me a call/text at 817-366-7468!

~Connor Posey, Owner