Preparing Your Pet

A little preparation goes a long way toward a smooth, stress-free grooming experience. Follow these tips before your pet's appointment.

Brushing

• Brush your pet regularly between grooming appointments to prevent matting. Mats can be painful to remove and may require shaving.
• Focus on areas prone to tangling: behind the ears, under the legs, belly, and around the collar.
• If you notice severe mats, do not try to cut them out yourself — let your groomer handle this safely.

Feeding & Water

• Feed your pet at least 2 hours before the appointment to avoid stomach upset during the bath.
• Ensure your pet has had water — a hydrated pet is calmer and their skin is healthier.
• Avoid new treats or foods on grooming day to prevent allergic reactions or digestive issues.

Exercise

• A 20–30 minute walk before the appointment helps burn off excess energy.
• A calmer pet is easier to groom safely and the experience is less stressful for them.
• Avoid overexertion — you want your pet relaxed, not exhausted.

Reducing Anxiety

Many pets experience some anxiety during grooming, especially in the early visits. Here's how to help:

• Stay calm: Pets pick up on owner energy. A relaxed drop-off leads to a calmer groom.
• Familiar items: Some salons allow you to bring a favorite toy or blanket. Check with your salon.
• Consistency: Regular grooming appointments help your pet become comfortable with the routine.
• Comfort breaks: Let your groomer know if your pet needs extra breaks during long sessions.
• Medication: If your vet has prescribed anti-anxiety medication for grooming situations, administer it according to your vet's instructions and let the salon know.

What NOT to Do

• Don't bathe your pet before the appointment — your groomer will handle all bathing with professional, pet-safe products.
• Don't apply flea/tick products within 48 hours of a grooming appointment unless instructed by your vet.
• Don't cut mats at home — scissors near the skin can cause serious injury.

Pro tip: If your pet is new to grooming, mention this when booking. Many groomers allocate extra time for first-timers and use gentler techniques to build positive associations.

Troubleshooting

• Pet refuses to get in the car? Try short practice car rides in the days leading up to the appointment. Positive associations with rides reduce grooming-day stress.
• Severe matting discovered at drop-off? Your groomer may recommend a shorter cut or "humanitarian shave." This is safer and pain-free for your pet — the coat will grow back.
• Pet seems stressed after grooming? Some mild tiredness is normal. If your pet seems overly anxious, let your groomer know so they can adjust techniques next time. Consider shorter, more frequent visits.