FAQ

Will there be other dogs in the salon?

• All grooming appointments are one-on-one. Your dog will be the only dog being groomed during their session, which helps keep the environment calm and allows us to focus fully on your dog’s comfort and experience. 

Why was my previous groomer able to get it done?

• A previous groomer may have been able to finish by using restraint or working through signs of discomfort. While this can get the service completed, it can create safety risks and doesn’t support a dog’s emotional well-being. We never use force or restraints. Instead, we help dogs learn to be comfortable and cooperative—creating positive grooming experiences that last a lifetime. 

Why does my dog behave better at the groomer when I leave?

• Sometimes dogs go into what’s called a “freeze state.” They may look calm on the outside, but inside they’re so frightened that their nervous system essentially shuts down. If your dog is having a hard time with grooming, we encourage the owner to stay for the appointment to help them feel more comfortable. 

Why can’t you just hold them and get it done?

• Forcing a dog through a procedure while they’re trying to escape isn’t just scary—it’s unsafe. We risk causing injury, or making the experience worse next time. Using force doesn’t teach calmness, it teaches fear.

Can’t I just bring my dog to the vet to have them sedated for grooming?

• Sedation can be an option for some dogs, but it’s expensive and carries health risks, especially for older pets or those with underlying conditions. Cooperative care training offers a safer, long-term solution that helps your dog stay calm without drugs.

How long does cooperative-care training take?

• It depends on your dog and how much you practice at home. Dogs who’ve been previously forced through procedures may need a bit more time, but with consistent, gentle training, even the most fearful pets can learn to be comfortable, calm, and cooperative.