DO I HAVE TO BOOK IN ADVANCE?
Yes, we recommend booking in advance, however, we do have some Walk-In treatments available.
WHAT DO I NEED TO DO BEFORE THE GROOM?
Before your appointment, we advise that your pet has had a chance to relieve itself.
Upon arrival, our new customers will complete a client card and receive a complimentary consultation where we will discuss your grooming preferences and your dog's behaviour towards grooming and/or other dogs.
If your pet is a little nervous you are welcome to bring their favourite treats or toy, if your dog is extremely anxious dogs we do recommend grooming on an empty stomach.
If there is a specific grooming look that you would like us to recreate, please feel free to bring a photo along with you.
HOW LONG DOES THE FULL GROOM TAKE?
This depends on several factors; each dog’s individual needs and grooming style.
We never rush our canine clients and want them to feel as relaxed as possible, a collection time will be given when you leave your dog with us and we will call you ahead of time if this changes.
MY DOG IS MATTED, WHAT CAN WE DO?
We understand that you may not want to have your dog short but this is the kindest option. At Hackney Barkers, we adhere to the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and depending on how matted the coat is and/or how close they are to the skin is how short the groom will have to be.
After the removal of matts we can discuss a grooming regime and advise you with tools and tips that will prevent a short groom in the future.
Please see our terms and conditions for more information.
CAN I STAY AND WATCH?
We understand that dropping your pet off at the groomers can sometimes be daunting, but we can assure you that they are in caring hands.
Staying and watching the groom can make your pet excited or anxious, which can be dangerous on the grooming table. We are more than happy to show you around our grooming area and we are always reachable via telephone if you wanted to find out how they are doing.
Chatsworth Road is home to many lovely café’s and shops, so you can have a relaxing coffee or enjoy some retail therapy while your dog has a pamper session.
HOW SOON CAN MY PUPPY COME IN FOR THEIR FIRST GROOM?
We cannot wait to meet your puppy!
We offer a puppy introduction pack and after they have had both vaccinations they are safe to come in and enjoy time in the salon. We recommend booking them in as early as possible so they become accustomed to the grooming way of life.
WHAT HAPPENS IF MY DOG IS IN SEASON?
We can still groom your pet even if she is in season, but it is important for you to let us know in advance so we can ensure that there are no male dogs booked in at the same time.
If you have not yet made the booking, it is best to wait until her season has ended.
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ARE ANAL GLANDS/EAR PLUCKING INCLUDED?
As groomers, we cannot provide this service.
A vet should first identify whether your pet needs a regular expression of their anal glands to avoid unnecessary squeezing of the anal sacs, which can cause internal irritation and problems.
If your dog has issues with its anal glands we strongly recommend that you seek veterinary advice and they will be able to medicate and assist you further, if needed.
Ear Cleaning of the external meatus of the ear is provided, however, removal of the hair from the ear cavity is not included, as there could be an underlying issue that requires further attention from a veterinary surgeon.
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MY DOG BITES, CAN THEY STILL BE GROOMED?
It is very important to inform us if your dog bites, dislikes other dogs or has food aggression.
We will not reprimand your pet for this behaviour, but we will be able to handle the situation better knowing how your dog reacts.
At Hackney Barkers, your pet’s time with us is important and we will always take things slow and in a calming manner to gain trust and build a happy relationship. For our canine clients that have more of a difficult time adjusting, a grooming plan can be arranged where we will break down full grooming treatments over a weekly timeframe.
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I HAVE AN ELDERLY DOG, CAN THEY STILL BE GROOMED?
We absolutely love our elderly canine clients and we understand that as our dog's age, they can become more fragile and frightened. We have experience in grooming dogs that are blind, deaf and those that suffer from arthritis and heart problems. We have special handling techniques to help our elderly clients feel safe and at ease.
If you are worried, we do recommend consulting your vet who can help you decide whether there would be any adverse risks to having them groomed with us.
WILL MY DOG BE PUT INTO A CAGE?
No, at Hackney Barkers we are a free-roaming salon, however, we have individual holding areas with a comfortable bed and water bowl which are available if your pet is feeling anxious or is unhappy around other dogs.
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WHAT IF I AM UNHAPPY WITH THE GROOM MY DOG RECEIVES?
Upon collection, you will be asked if you are happy with your pet’s groom, if you notice anything you’d like to change please let us know and we can quickly pop back into the grooming area and make the adjustments for you. However, if you notice something after you have left, please inform us within two business days and we will be more than happy to rectify anything that you are unhappy with.
Customer satisfaction is very important to us and we take great pride in our service here, at Hackney Barkers.
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CAN I BUY YOUR PRODUCTS?
Yes, we are very excited to sell our shampoos and grooming tools to help you with maintenance at home.
Still have a question? Please contact us