Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Velvet Tails grooming services, policies, and care.
Booking and Appointments
How long does an appointment take?
Most full grooms take 2-4 hours depending on your pet's size, coat type, and services selected. Bath-only appointments are typically 1-2 hours. We work one-on-one with your pet and never rush, so timing may vary slightly.
Do I need to stay for the appointment?
No, you're welcome to drop off your pet and return at the estimated pickup time. However, you're also welcome to wait in our comfortable lobby or nearby at one of the other local businesses. We can send you photos during the grooming!
How far advanced should I book?
We recommend booking 2-3 weeks ahead, especially for weekends and holidays. For first-time clients or cats, we try to have more availability as we allocate extra time.
What happens if I need to cancel?
We typically require 24hrs notice for cancellations or reschedules as we have a lot of pets that need our care. We understand emergencies happen but please give us a call.
How does drop off and pickup work?
We intentionally stagger our appointments to be as 1-1 as we can while still trying to see many of our furry friends, because of this we ask you arrive at your scheduled appointment time, 5 min early is fine but we can't always check in before that. We also ask that you arrive for pickup within our estimated window we give you at drop off and on our pickup call. If you are unable to pickup within that window your pet may need to be kenneled as suites are limited.
What is the Soothe & Support Session?
The Soothe & Support Session (+$25) is perfect for anxious pets. It includes: no-kennel time, calming pheromone diffusers, reduced concurrent pets for a quieter environment, extra assistant support as needed, and extra time/breaks during grooming. Highly recommended for special needs pets.
Services and Pricing
How much does a groom cost?
Pricing varies by size, coat type, and services selected. Our packages start at $60 for small short-haired pets (Serenity Shower), $75 for bath with tidy (Velvet Tails & Tush), and $90+ for full haircuts (Velvet Tails, Toes & Nose). Cat grooming typically ranges $75-$150. Call for the most accurate quote!
Whats included in a groom?
All of our full services include: aromatherapy bath with premium shampoo & conditioner, blow dry, nail trim/ buff, ear cleaning, teeth brushing, paw pad trim, finishing mist, and a complimentary bow or bandana!
Do you offer puppy prices?
Yes! We have special packages for puppies and kittens ages 2-5 months. These are great introductory services we call Firsts but can be booked as much as you like during the 2-5 month age range to help ensure we have happy and relaxed adult fur-iends! Call for more info.
Why does my pet's groom cost more at Velvet Tails than other salons?
At Velvet Tails your pet isn’t just getting “a haircut” or "a bath", we use premium products and offer personalized grooming sessions. Every pet will get a facial, wash, blow out and brush, nail trimming/buffing, teeth brushing, an accessory and love. We also strategically book appointments to be more 1-1 than your average salon which means we are doing less dogs/cats per day. We do this because your pet isn’t an inanimate object on an assembly line and to make sure we can give every pet the best possible care.
Cat Grooming
Do you really groom cats?
Absolutely! We're one of the few salons truly equipped for cats. Our owner (Anna) is a Certified Feline Groomer with specialized training in cat handling, behavior, and coat care. We use cat-safe products and techniques designed specifically for felines.
Does my cat need grooming?
Regular grooming prevents matting, reduces shedding, helps control hairballs, allows health checks, and keeps nails trimmed. Longhaired cats especially benefit from professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Even shorthaired cats can enjoy a good de-shed and nail trim!
Will grooming stress my cat?
Our calm, cat-first environment minimizes stress. We use feline pheromones, gentle handling, and patience. Many cats who are anxious elsewhere actually relax here! We take breaks as needed and never force anything. First-time cat clients often report their pet was surprisingly calm however, every pet is unique so some may hide for a few days after grooming.
Can you groom difficult cats?
Yes! We're experienced with spicy, fearful, and elderly cats. We use low-stress techniques and will accept cats under some sedation if you or your cat prefer. If a cat is truly too stressed, we'll stop and recommend working with your vet. But most cats do wonderfully once they realize we're here to help!
Health and Safety
What vaccines does my pet need?
Dogs: Current Rabies REQUIRED and we recommend DHPP, and Bordetella (kennel cough). Cats: Current Rabies REQUIRED and we recommend FVRCP. Proof of rabies vaccine must be provided before the first visit starts and must have been administered no less than 24hrs before. This protects us, your pet and all of our clients and Pennsylvania law requires all dogs and cats over 3 months of age to be vaccinated against rabies.
What if my pet has fleas or ticks?
If fleas or ticks are discovered during grooming, we'll notify you immediately and for fleas we WILL provide a flea bath at an additional fee. We sanitize all equipment between pets and treat our facility regularly to prevent spread. Pets with heavy infestations may need veterinary treatment first.
Is grooming safe for a senior or anxious pet?
Yes! We specialize in gentle care for senior, anxious, and special-needs pets. We work slowly, take breaks, and watch for signs of stress. If your pet has health concerns, please inform us ahead so we can prepare- we can coordinate with your vet if needed.
How do you handle aggressive pets?
Safety first - for your pet, our team, and other clients. We use humane, low-stress handling techniques and other safety equipment if necessary. If a pet is truly becoming a danger to themselves or staff or is becoming too stressed, we may stop the groom and recommend other options or veterinary sedated grooming. Luckily, this is rare - most 'aggressive' pets just need patience!
Coat and Breed
Can you do breed specific cuts?
Absolutely! We have experience with breed standard cuts for poodles, terriers, spaniels, and more. We can also do creative styles, teddy bear cuts, or whatever look you prefer. Bring reference photos! Remember all creative grooming and haircut requests may not be an option depending on the condition of the coat or pets behavior. However we will always discuss any options during our check-in process!
Do you groom doodles?
Yes! Doodles are one of our specialties. We offer teddy bear cuts, puppy cuts, or longer styled cuts. Their coats require regular grooming (every 4-6 weeks minimum) to prevent matting. Remember fluffy haircuts will require regular at home maintenance, we suggest daily brushing and detangling using a slicker brush and metal comb to ensure you are “knot” missing anything.
My pet sheds constantly, can you help?
Our de-shedding treatment is a game-changer! We use specialized tools and products to remove loose undercoat. Most clients notice significantly less shedding at home for 4-6 weeks with regular de-shedding treatments and/or grooming. We recommend every 6-8 weeks to keep shedding manageable year-round.
Can you groom matted pets?
Yes, but severe matting may require a short shave for your pet's comfort. We'll always discuss options with you. Prevention is key - regular brushing at home and professional grooming every 6-8 weeks keeps coats healthy. We offer de-matting tools for home care.
Other
Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes! Gift certificates are available for any amount and make great gifts for pet-loving friends and family. Call or email to purchase. They never expire.
Can I watch my pet being groomed?
We find pets do better without their owners directly watching (they usually want to get back to you <3) . However, we're happy to show you our facility before your first visit, and we can send photo updates during longer grooms. Transparency is important to us! However if your pet sees you and gets too excited during the groom we will stop where we are and charge for the full service.
Do you only groom cats and dogs?
Currently we specialize in cats and dogs but we do offer nail trims and brushing for our tiny friends (hamsters, rats, ferrets, rabbits & birds)contact us for more information.
What music is calming to my pet?
Research shows that genres such as classical, soft rock and reggae can reduce stress in dogs and cats. However, any music that doesn’t have harsh percussion instruments in the 50-95 bpm range can have anxiety soothing effects on your pets. So have some fun!
What products do you use?
We use premium, shampoos and conditioners. Most are plant-based with organic extracts and essential oils. We can accommodate sensitive skin or allergies with our fragrance free and hypoallergenic options - just let us know! We don’t like to use harsh chemicals.
Have something in mind?
Feel free to contact us with any other questions.
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