Client Safety and Etiquette

All clients are asked to complete a new client information form upon arrival for the first grooming session. One form must be filled out for each dog.

All pets must be on a leash at all times while on the property.

The Dancing Hound Grooming Company Ltd. does not use sedatives of any kind, nor does it permit the use of sedatives on dogs left to its care. Any dog who arrives sedated will be asked to reschedule.

Please take advantage of the expansive green areas outside and take your dog on a ‘business trip’ before arriving for the grooming appointment. It will reduce your pet’s stress level, and make the groom a happier experience. Remember to scoop:)

As is customary with home grooming, there is no waiting area available for owners to stay while their pets are being groomed. There are many cafes, malls, libraries, parks, and shops within a two-block radius, but if you'd prefer to stay a little closer there is a Starbucks located at the corner of Yonge St. and Rosehill Avenue.

It is best not to feed large meals or unusual foods to your dog prior to his/her appointment.

Spaying/neutering is strongly recommended, but not required.

Rabies vaccinations are mandatory. Please be prepared to indicate the date of your pet's lastest vaccination.

Appointment times are firm, not estimated. Appointments will be held for 15 minutes after the scheduled drop off time. After 15 minutes your appointment is not guaranteed, and may need to be rescheduled. This is to ensure that all dogs arrive to a clean, sanitized, and tranquil appointment. It takes time to prepare for a groom, and all clients deserve the best reception possible. Please call, text, or email if you are going to be late.

There is no cancellation fee for grooming services, but please inform the groomer as soon you can if you won’t be able to attend and need to reschedule.

If you have purchased dog care in addition to your dog's groom, a valid dog license is required.

Please be honest about any socialization or behaviour issues that your dog has exhibited in the past. All dogs are treated with care and respect, and your dog will not be declined if you indicate past issues. Knowing the whole story makes the groom safer for everyone involved.


The Nitty-Gritty

1) Fleas. If fleas are found during the grooming process, a flea bath treatment is mandatory. The price of this additional service is $25.

2) Dog Sitting. Dog sitting services are not provided. Dog care can usually be accomodated before or after the scheduled grooming appointment when booked in advance. The rate for pre-booked dog care is $10 per hour.

If you are going to be later than the specified pick up time for your dog please inform The Dancing Hound as soon as possible. Additional fees for dog care without prior arrangement will be applied at the rate of $15 per hour.

All grooms have a grace period of 30 minutes following the scheduled pick-up time before extra charges apply.

3) Matted Dogs. While brushing is included in all grooms, extensive matting correction cannot be adequately addressed in a regular grooming session. If your pet is severely matted a complete short clip is often the best option. The pre-groom consultation will help you decide on the course of action most appropriate for your pet. Depending on the work involved, extra charges may apply.

4) Skunked Dogs. If your dog is sprayed by a skunk you are welcome to email or call to ask for advise on how to handle the situation. Skunked dogs who come in for grooming appointments are treated to the best of the groomer's ability, and every effort is made to correct the situation. It is important to note there there is no complete cure for skunked dogs, and there will often be a residual odour. One reason for this is that dogs are often 'hit' in the face with the skunk spray, and the products best able to remove skunk spray are not safe to use near the dog's eyes, nose, and mouth.

If your dog has been sprayed by a skunk please indicate this when booking the appointment so that the correct products will be on hand when you arrive. A 'skunked' fee of $25 applies.

Canine massage therapy is intended to work alongside veterinary treatment. It is never a substitute for veterinary care.

Please consult with your veterinarian prior to massage if your dog has any health concerns.