FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions about grooming, appointments and visiting Hound Pet Salon in Kimberley.
Before your appointment
A little information beforehand helps us understand your dog and plan their appointment around their individual needs.
How do I know which grooming service my dog needs?
If you're not sure, that's completely fine. Tell us about your dog, their breed or coat type, grooming history and what you're hoping for. We can help you decide which service is the most appropriate place to start.
Does my dog need a consultation visit first?
Not every dog needs a consultation visit. They can be particularly helpful when you'd like to meet us first, talk through your dog's needs or give your dog a gentle introduction to Hound before arranging a grooming appointment.
What should I tell you about my dog before their appointment?
Please tell us anything that could help us care for your dog appropriately, including their grooming history, how they feel about handling or grooming, and anything you think may affect their appointment.
There's no judgement. Knowing more about your dog helps us tailor their visit and make appropriate decisions for them.
My dog finds grooming difficult. Can you still help?
Every dog is different, and some need more time or a different approach to grooming. Tell us what your dog finds difficult and about any previous grooming experiences when you enquire.
We can then discuss their needs with you and decide whether a grooming appointment or a consultation visit is the most suitable next step.
Grooming & your dog
What happens if my dog finds part of the groom difficult?
We pay attention to how your dog is responding throughout their appointment and adapt where needed.
If your dog becomes distressed or we cannot continue safely, we may stop part or all of the groom. Sometimes stopping is the most responsible decision. Your dog's welfare and safe handling come before completing a particular finish.
What happens if my dog's coat is matted?
We'll look at what can be managed comfortably and talk you through the options.
Where matting cannot be removed humanely, clipping the coat shorter may be the kindest approach. We'll explain our recommendation without judgement and help you think about a manageable coat-maintenance routine for the future.
Will my dog look exactly like the photo or style I ask for?
We're always happy to talk through the finish you prefer, but the final groom also needs to work with your dog's coat condition, coat type, comfort and what can be achieved responsibly during that appointment.
We'll be open with you if we need to adapt the plan.
What if my dog is unwell on the day?
Please let us know before bringing them to the salon.
If your dog is showing signs of illness, or there is anything that may affect their welfare during grooming, their appointment may need to be postponed.
How often should my dog be groomed?
There isn't one schedule that suits every dog. The right routine depends on their coat, lifestyle, home maintenance and individual grooming needs.
Once we get to know your dog and their coat, we can recommend a realistic routine to help keep the coat comfortable and manageable.
Bookings & appointments
How do I book an appointment at Hound?
You can start a grooming booking online or request a consultation visit if you'd prefer to meet us first. We'll review your request and be in touch to confirm the next steps. You can also contact us by phone or email if you'd prefer to talk things through.
Do I need to pay a deposit?
Yes. A non-refundable deposit of 50% of the grooming fee is required to secure your appointment. This reserves time in our diary and is not a payment for services. Full payment is due when your dog's groom is completed.
What is your cancellation and rescheduling policy?
With more than 48 hours' notice, your deposit may be transferred to a future appointment once. Cancellations or rescheduling requests made with less than 48 hours' notice will result in the deposit being forfeited. Each appointment may only be rescheduled once — any further changes will be treated as a cancellation and a new deposit will be required.
What happens if I'm running late?
Please contact us as soon as possible if you're running late. Late arrivals of 10 minutes or more may result in the appointment being cancelled at our discretion, and the full service fee may be payable. Please do not arrive early, as we operate a staggered schedule to maintain a calm environment for all dogs.
How do I request a consultation visit?
You can request a consultation online by choosing a date and time that suits you. Your slot is held whilst we review the request — it is not confirmed until we are in touch. Consultation visits are particularly helpful if you'd like to meet us first or give your dog a gentle introduction to Hound.
Visiting Hound
Is Hound an appointment-only salon?
Yes. All visits are by appointment — please arrange your visit in advance. We do not accept walk-ins, as this helps us maintain a calm environment for every dog in our care.
Where is Hound Pet Salon located?
We're on Floor 1, 31A Main Street, Kimberley, Nottingham NG16 2NG. Hound is a first-floor salon with stairs only — please get in touch if stairs may affect your visit.
What should I expect when I arrive and collect my dog?
Please arrive at your scheduled appointment time — not early. When your dog is ready, we'll let you know. Dogs should be collected promptly and no later than 15 minutes after notification. A supervision fee may apply for late collections.
Is there parking nearby?
There are short-stay car parks nearby, with free parking within walking distance of the salon.
Still have a question?
If you're unsure what your dog needs, tell us a little about them and we'll help you decide the right next step.