What to Expect (First Visit)

Welcome! Your first grooming visit is a special experience for both you and your pet. Here's everything you need to know to make it smooth and enjoyable.

Before You Arrive

What to Bring

• Vaccination records — if not already uploaded to your pet's profile, bring printed or digital proof.
• Your pet on a leash or in a carrier — for safety during check-in.
• Any medications — if your pet needs medication during the visit, bring the medication with clear dosage instructions.
• Special instructions — written notes about preferred styles, sensitive areas, or behavioral concerns are always helpful.

Timing

• Plan to arrive 5–10 minutes early for your first visit. There's a brief check-in process.
• A typical grooming session takes 1.5 to 3 hours depending on breed, coat condition, and services booked.
• You'll receive a notification when your pet is ready for pickup.

The Check-In Process

1. Verify identity: Staff will confirm your name and pet's name against the booking.
2. Review services: Your groomer will review the booked services and discuss any specific requests or concerns.
3. Health check: A quick visual assessment to note any skin conditions, matting, or concerns before grooming begins.
4. Form signing: If this is your first visit, you'll sign the service agreement and liability waiver digitally (see Intake Forms & Waivers).
5. Drop-off: Once check-in is complete, your pet goes to the grooming area. You're free to leave — we'll notify you when they're ready!

During the Groom

• Track your pet's status in real-time from your Dashboard. You'll see stages like "Checked In", "In Bath", "Drying", "Grooming", and "Ready for Pickup".
• Your groomer may send you photos or messages via the Chat feature — especially if they have a question about styling or need to flag a concern.
• If there's an issue (e.g., unexpected matting, a skin condition discovered during grooming), your groomer will contact you before making significant changes.

Pickup

1. You'll receive a push notification and SMS when your pet is ready.
2. At pickup, your groomer will walk you through what was done, any notes for at-home care, and show you before & after photos.
3. Complete payment at pickup (or it's auto-charged if you have a card on file).

After Your Visit

• View grooming notes and photos in My Pets > Grooming Notes.
• Consider booking your next appointment at the recommended interval — your groomer will suggest optimal timing based on your pet's coat type.
• Leave feedback! Your groomer appreciates knowing what went well.

🤖 Prepared for Your Pet: Before your first visit, the salon already knows your pet's breed, size, coat type, and any special needs from your profile. Your groomer receives tailored notes — including estimated service duration, recommended products, and any behavioral considerations — so your pet gets personalized care from the very first appointment.

Tip: Nervous about your pet's first groom? Many salons offer a "meet and greet" session so your pet can get familiar with the environment. Ask your salon about this option.