DOG GROOMING ADVICE FROM EXPERTS IN HEMEL HEMPSTEAD

Got a question? Our team at Sarah’s 1-2-1 Dogs in Hemel Hempstead are here to help. Browse our FAQs below and get in touch if there is anything else you need to know.

grooming results

frequently ASKED QUESTIONS

AT WHAT AGE CAN MY PUPPY HAVE ITS FIRST GROOM?
Your puppy can start their gradual journey into grooming once they have received both of their vaccinations. This means they can have their first groom as young as three months old. The earlier they have their first groom the better, as they will be able to build trust and get used to the experience, atmosphere, smells, grooming equipment, and our groomers.

A puppy groom usually lasts for approximately 45 minutes; however, this can depend on how they react to the grooming experience. Puppies have a short attention span and can easily become bored; therefore, we tend to keep the appointments short and fun, yet mindful. We recommend having at least three 45-minute grooms before starting to perform full grooming sessions.

WHAT IS INVOLVED IN A FULL GROOMING SESSION?

Visit our ‘grooming services’ page for details on our full grooming sessions.

HOW LONG WILL THE GROOMING SESSION TAKE?
The length of grooming sessions depends on the condition of the dog’s coat, the type of coat, temperament, age, breed, size, and willingness. 2 hours is the minimum time required to perform a groom; however, large breeds will take longer. We recommend that puppies have three 45-minute sessions before undergoing a full groom.

You will be contacted 20 minutes before your dog is ready to be collected so that they don’t have to wait too long for you to pick them up. Please do not come to collect your dog if you have not been contacted as this can distract your dog and disturb the groom, making it difficult to complete their groom safely.

CAN I STAY AND WATCH?
Unfortunately, we cannot allow you to stay and watch your dog being groomed. It is extremely difficult to groom a wriggling puppy or a dog who has been distracted as their owner is in sight. Your dog will not understand why you are watching, yet not getting involved, this can be upsetting for your dog who will then not settle. It is like dropping off children at nursery, parting with them can be difficult, but you must leave and return later.
WHAT SHAMPOO DO YOU USE? CAN I PROVIDE MY OWN?
The shampoo and conditioners we use are made from natural products suitable for all breeds, including puppies and elderly dogs. We have a range of different plant-based shampoos and conditioners which contain essential oils, we will always ensure to use the correct products dependant on your dogs’ coat. If you wish to bring your own shampoo as advised by your vet, you may do so.
MY DOG IS ELDERLY, ARE YOU ABLE TO SUPPORT THEM WHILST GROOMING?
Your dog’s welfare is my main priority, no matter whether your dog is old or young, I will always ensure your dog is safe and happy whilst in my care. If required, I have aids to stabilise and support their weight when grooming hard to reach areas. If your dog needs to stop and lie down at any point during their treatment, they can do so without the belly strap until they are feeling comfortable enough to stand again. It is all about comfort and ease for your dog.
DO YOU HAVE CAGES?
Cages are a safety measure for little dogs that are feeling nervous and need their own space when being groomed at my salon. It keeps them away from other dogs to prevent nose-to-nose contact, however, if the dogs know each other or they live together, they can certainly sit together at a dog stop. We do not use cages in the van as these treatments are offered on a 1-2-1 basis.
MY DOG DOES NOT LIKE BEING GROOMED, DO YOU HAVE MUZZLES, AND CAN YOU STILL GROOM HIM OR HER?
We can discuss your dogs’ dislikes before scheduling your appointment. Based on the information you provide; I will determine whether I can offer my services whilst ensuring a safe and confident groom. Muzzles can be provided if required.
WILL MY DOG BE MUZZLED?
We only use muzzles when necessary. In some cases, dogs need a muzzle to keep them calm during their groom. A muzzle may be required during the clipping of the coat, the cutting of the nails, or throughout much of the treatment. Muzzles are used as a safety precaution for both your dog and our groomers to ensure nobody gets hurt. Nervous dogs may tense up and have bursts of aggressive energy, this can cause serious problems, especially when using sharp grooming equipment.
WHAT BRUSH SHOULD I BE USING?
We use professional slicker brushes of multiple sizes dependant on the texture, length, and type of coat, whilst we also use a steel comb and conditioning sprays. If your dog has a smooth coat and does not need a slicker brush, there are other options to choose from. We will be happy to offer our advice based on your dog’s needs.
DO YOU SELL CONDITIONING SPRAYS?
Yes, we can provide you with a conditioning spray suitable for your dog’s coat. We can send you the product information so that you can place an online order, alternatively, we can order the conditioning spray for you which can be collected on the day of your appointment.
DO YOU EMPTY ANAL GLANDS?
We have the knowledge required to express anal glands correctly by external means only. This is not a service we like to offer every dog; however, we can empty anal glands if necessary. Please be aware, when anal glands are emptied too often, the dog’s muscle will become weaker. This means the dog will become less able to empty them naturally when they pass motion.

If your dog has trouble with its glands, this is a case for the vet, not a dog groomer. We can check to see if there is any swelling or abnormalities during the health check included with our full grooms.

CAN YOU CLEAN MY DOG'S TEETH?
Yes, this service is now available, visit our ‘teeth cleaning’ page for details.
I THINK MY DOG HAS A TICK, CAN YOU REMOVE IT?
Yes, we can remove a tick from your dog. Please do not try to remove it yourself by pulling or burning it as this can prevent the whole tick from being removed. It can also cause stress to the tick, encouraging it to regurgitate. We will remove the tick correctly using professional tools. If you have any concerns, please seek medical advice.
HOW OFTEN DOES MY DOG NEED TO BE GROOMED?
Puppies: A puppy package is 3 mini grooms in the space of two months, all appointments can be booked in at once.

Adult dogs: An adult dog should be groomed dependant on the coat type and breed. We recommend that wool coated breeds such as Bichon Frisé and poodles of all sizes (toy, miniature and standard) are groomed every 5 weeks. Cockapoos should be groomed every 6-8 weeks depending on the style you require.

Elderly dogs: Elderly dogs need regular grooming just like puppies. Regular grooming will reduce the time required to carry out a full groom, making the appointment safer and stress-free. If your elderly dog is not groomed for months on end, they will require a lengthier treatment which will cause them to get tired easily.

Most breeds should be groomed within 8 weeks of their last appointment to ensure a well maintained and healthy coat, resulting in a happy and healthy pet!

Matted Pet Release Form
Clipdown Risks & Aftercare

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR DOG GROOMING ADVICE? CONTACT OUR TEAM HERE AT SARAH’S 1-2-1 DOGS IN HEMEL HEMPSTEAD IF YOU REQUIRE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. SIMPLY SEND US AN EMAIL OR CALL US ON 07730 154454 TODAY.

email sarah's 1-2-1 dogs