Handsome Hounds

Mobile Dog Grooming, LLC 

Milford, CT
ph: 203-615-2482

Why Mobile?...and other questions

Mobile dog grooming is growing in popularity for many reasons - here's a few things I hear my clients saying:

  • Less Stress * Dogs are looking out the windows to their homes or neighborhood activities while being groomed in the salon inside the grooming van.  My clients tell me their dog seems more relaxed after mobile grooming, too.
  • Saves Time * Busy people LOVE it - no trips to drop off and pick up your dog, leaving more time on your hands! 
  • Less Time at the Groomer * Mobile grooming takes from 1-2 hours (in most cases).
  • Cageless * Many dogs simply do not do well with crates/cages.  All dogs are hand dried, so there is no reason for a cage.  I couldn't fit one inside the van anyway!
  • Personalized Care * Your dog will be pampered, one-on-one, having my attention from start to finish.  Special care needs and treatments will be addressed, too.   Mobile grooming is also great for elderly, carsick and those dogs who don't get along with other animals.

How long does it take?

On the average, between 1 and 2 hours.   Large dogs with very long, matted, tangled or dense undercoat, as well as styles requiring more detailed hand-scissoring or clipping work, will take longer and will require additional fees.

 

Is it more expensive?

Typical mobile grooming fees are a bit higher than you will find at salons.  While mobile isn't for everyone, many people find the service well worth the extra for the benefits mobile grooming provides.

 

Do I have to be there?

I prefer the owners be home for at least the first grooming session.  Subsequently, the dog can be left accessible, and provided the dog will allow me to get him, you don't have to be there.  I service clients who do both.

 

Is all the grooming done in the van?

Yes!  The 2007 Dodge, Sprinter van is professionally converted to a self contained dog grooming spa!  It is complete with air conditioning, heat, hot water and hydro suds massage in the full sized tub, hand dryer, an electric grooming table, and all the tools needed to complete the groom totally within the van.  All powered by an inverter.  It's a very cool machine!

  

Do you need to plug in for power or water?

No.  The van is completely self-contained with water and power.  If I run into on-board power difficulties, I may need to then plug into a regular outlet at your place.

  

How do I make an appointment?

You can give me a call at (203)-615-2482.  I'll need to ask some questions, and speaking in person is best so you can tell me about your dog.  Remember to call in advance, I usually book 3 weeks out or longer during busy times and the Holiday Season.

 

Do you groom cats?

No.  I recommend you contact Doggie Styles in Shelton.   www.doggiestylesgrooming.com

 

How often should my dog be groomed?

Usually between 4-8 weeks.  But it depends...a dog with a coat requiring higher maintenance and/or frequent clipping consider a 4-6 week schedule.  If they are clipped short at each grooming and/or have a lower maintenance coat, more time between groomings would be fine.  Consider their lifestyle,too; active outdoors or couch potato?  I'll be happy to recommend a regular schedule upon meeting your dog at our first appointment.

 

my dog has a lot of mats (clumps of tangled fur), does he have to be shaved?

It depends on the severity of the matting.  A few minor mats can sometimes be worked out, but many times shaving down or stripping is necessary.  Severe mats can cause skin irritations like hot spots, dermatitis, sores and other problems.  Trouble is often hidden under a badly matted coat, and should be addressed once uncovered.   Though rare, some cases will be turned down for service and owners advised to see their veterinarian.

 

Do you take credit cards?

No.  At this time cash and checks are accepted.

 

Do you service standard poodles?

I do service standard poodles kept in a shorter "puppy cut", and patterned clips which are manageable.  I do not service standard poodles kept in a long coat, or who have not been properly maintaned.  A job like this would take a while and 2 people to minimize the amount of time your dog would have to stand to be groomed - I'd be happy to refer you to Doggie Styles salon in Shelton.

  

Do you service large breeds?

I will accommodate a dog up to 110 pounds, and will need your helping hand to place him safely, and move him around a bit in the van.  If the dog is very unwilling to be groomed at any point, I may turn him away for further service.  I do not service giant breeds, and larger breeds with extremely heavy coats.

 

Do you offer discounts?

Check out the Freebies and Discounts page.

 

do you operate in the winter?

Yes, I keep a year-round schedule.  However, in the winter months, I always ask customers be patient if rescheduling is needed.  The van is a very dangerous vehicle to drive in questionable road conditions.  Snow, even light, is off limits.

If your question remains unanswered, give me a call - I'll be happy to talk to you about your dog's grooming!

A winter walk in the woods at the horse farm

Copyright Handsome Hounds Mobile Grooming  All rights reserved.

Milford, CT
ph: 203-615-2482