Skip to main content
The journalGrooming 101

Your first appointment: what to bring and what to expect

July 7, 2026 · 4 min read

A short checklist so your dog's first visit with us goes smoothly — for both of you.

Before you arrive

Give your dog a normal walk and a chance to relieve themselves. Skip a large meal right before the appointment. Keep the goodbye brief — long, anxious farewells tell your dog something worrying is about to happen.

What to bring

Very little, but these help:

  • Vaccination records if it's your dog's first visit with us
  • Any medication or notes about health conditions, allergies, or sore spots
  • A photo if you have a specific trim in mind
  • The name your dog actually answers to

During the groom

We assess the coat and skin first and talk through anything unexpected before we start. If something changes the plan or the price, you get a call — never a surprise at pickup.

Booking and changes

You can book online, and every confirmation includes a private link to reschedule or cancel your own appointment. Reminders go out the day before and again a couple of hours ahead.

Book your dog in.

Salon or door-to-door, same care either way. Pick a time and we'll confirm your price.

Keep reading