Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect when I drop my dog off for an appointment for the first time?
Your pet may be super excited to meet us! Or, your pet may be a little nervous. It’s normal for dogs to be nervous sometimes when their owners leave them. While many dogs love their spa days and are happy to get straight to it, some dogs view the groomer more like we humans view the dentist or how a human child views being left with a babysitter. Almost all dogs relax and are happy to hang out once their owners have left their sight. We will always communicate openly and honestly about your dog's experience and behavior.
What do I need to do before my dog is groomed for the first time?
We require a current rabies vaccine to be groomed at Lazy K9 and strongly suggest that your pet is fully vaccinated according to your vet’s recommendation. Your pup should be free of pests (fleas, lice, intestinal parasites, etc) before coming into the salon. While we live in tick country, a small number of ticks may be removed free of charge, but infestations will incur an extra charge.
Do you use kennels at your salon?
While we use a few stand-alone wire kennels for dogs that require them, most dogs are kept in separated pens. Social dogs may roam with the trusted shop dogs after supervised introductions, but we do not have dogs from separate families socializing together. This practice helps reduce kennel anxiety, noise, and messes.
How long has Lazy K9 been open?
We opened in the summer of 2021.
Do you accept all breeds of dogs?
All breeds are welcome at Lazy K9, including doodles, bully breeds, and giant breeds. Some breeds and mixes may require a strict grooming schedule to ensure the physical well-being of our staff and the longevity of their careers.
Do you groom aggressive dogs?
Aggression in dogs can be complex, stemming from fear, trauma, or genetics. While we don’t turn dogs away for behavior, dogs that are adverse to grooming may need to go through "grooming rehab" with many short, easy appointments to desensitize them. Safety is paramount, and we reserve the right to refuse service if a dog's behavior is too risky.
Will you shave, “poodle”, or otherwise give my dog a haircut that I didn’t ask for?
Health and comfort are our priorities. Dogs with severe matting or tangles may need to be shaved. We aim to meet your expectations accurately and encourage you to bring pictures to illustrate your desired style.
How long will my dog’s appointment take?
Appointment duration varies based on your pet's on-time arrival, mood, and style needs. We don't rush, as haste can stress pets. If you have a specific pickup time, please inform us in advance.
Can I stay with my pet while they are being groomed?
For safety and efficacy, we request that owners not stay during grooming. This helps keep pets calm and allows groomers to build trust with them. Please return only once we contact you.
How often should my dog be groomed?
Regular grooming is crucial; we suggest a maximum of 8 weeks between appointments. The frequency can vary based on the dog’s lifestyle, coat type, and home maintenance.
Is creative grooming (dye) safe for dogs?
Yes, creative grooming is safe. We use dyes specially formulated for the pH of canine skin to express your dog's personality safely.
Will you pluck my dog’s ear hair or squeeze their anal glands?
Ear plucking and anal gland expression are done at the discretion of the groomer and may be referred to a vet. Regular maintenance can be crucial but must be handled carefully to avoid complications.
Will you cut my dog’s nails?
Nail maintenance is included with every appointment. We aim to trim nails as short as possible while ensuring your dog's comfort and health.
How much does it cost to get my dog groomed?
Our pricing varies based on the type of service, dog breed, coat type, size, style, and behavior. For detailed information, please refer to our "prices" tab.