Q. Do you only groom golden retrievers?
A. While I have groomed both mixed breeds and other larger breed dogs such as Bernese Mountain Dogs and Labs, yes, I specialize in grooming Golden Retrievers only. Why? I love the breed that much!
Q. How long will it take for my dog to be groomed?
A. I generally ask that you allow 3 - 3.5 hrs for an average grooming appointment. If your dog requires extensive work, such as de-matting or de-shedding, it can take longer. There may be situations where I may finish your dog sooner such as if a dog is brought in for grooming every 3 months or, a younger dog who's coat has not fully come in yet. If your pet has special needs, please let me know.
Q. My dog is nervous - can I stay with him while he is being groomed?
A. Pets are usually calmer and better behaved during grooming when their owner is NOT present. It is important for me, the groomer, to bond with your dog and develop mutual understanding and respect. When the owner is present, the dog tends to be so focused on the owner that it disrupts this process. I tend to take photos during a grooming break or at the end of the grooming session so you will have proof of just how content and relaxed your beloved companion was during the grooming session.
Q. My dog sheds so much. Can't you just shave him?
A. A healthy coat is constantly being renewed, which results in shedding of the old, dead coat. Regular grooming, both professionally and at home, will help keep daily shedding to a minimum. Shaving your golden's coat will damage it and eliminate the dog's natural protection from the elements. Seasonal shedding can be managed with more frequent brushing at home in between professional grooming appointments. I'll be more than happy to help you choose the best tools and show you how to use them. This will help to reduce your grooming expenses as well. Also, keep in mind that diet plays a vital role in the condition of your dog's skin and coat.
Q. Do you express anal glands?
A. No! The anal glands are two scent glands on each side of the rectum and are supposed to be expressed naturally when your pet has a bowel movement. If you express the glands for the pet when they are not having an issue in doing it themselves, it can begin to weaken the muscles to a point where they will no longer be able to express them on their own. I believe your vet is best suited for this procedure so that if there is a problem arising with the glands, it can be addressed properly.
Q. Are you licensed?
A. No. What most pet owners do not realize is that grooming is a totally unregulated industry. There is no licensing available for pet grooming and no requirements by the government that need to be met before opening a grooming salon or working in one. In my situation, I work alone out of my home and typically only groom one dog on any given day with the exception being when a family wtih mulitple dogs wishes for them to be done the same day. This helps to insure that your companion receives plenty of undivided attention and will not be rushed through the grooming process.
So what should pet owners do to make sure they are leaving their pet in competent hands? Talk to the groomer and ask questions. Ask if you can get in touch with past clients for feedback about their experiences. Ask how they trained and for how long. Ask how long they have been grooming. Ask to see the grooming area. Is it clean and well kept? If for any reason you are not comfortable, do not hesitate to walk out with your pet.
Q. Why is grooming so expensive?
A. There are a lot of factors that go into the cost of grooming. The products used, equipment, time spent, skill of the groomer, etc. At Good as Gold Grooming, I use top of the line equipment, Crown Royale shampoo, conditioner and bodifier, Millers Forge shears, Rubber Duck Ultra Gold thinning shears and so much more. Just as an example, my thinning shears alone cost over $100 but I use them because they are the best, and therefore the work I am able to do is that much better. Even the best groomer cannot excel at his or her job with inferior equipment and supplies.
