Frequently Asked Questions

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What should I bring/prepare?

We ask that all dogs arrive at Bone Idol with a collar and lead. We will ask you if your dog has any special requirements, ailments, or ongoing veterinary treatments, so that we can ensure your dog gets the very best possible care. If in any doubt, please check with your vet before booking an appointment. Before your dog visits us we strongly recommend that they’ve had a chance to relieve themselves/ go to the loo.

How long does it take to groom my dog?

Every dog is different and we treat them all like lovely individuals. The time taken will depend on the size, condition and length of hair. We will estimate the time needed when you book and confirm the timing when you drop off your dog.

If anything changes, we will contact you at the end of the treatment to advise that your dog is available for collection.

This is why we ask for comprehensive contact details to ensure we can put your dog first.

When should my puppy have their first groom?

We can see your puppy anytime after their first vaccinations are completed (this is normally around 3 months). It’s good to get your dog used to the grooming experience when they are little ones. Bone Idol offer an incredible puppy package which you can read more about here

What will the grooming involve?

We tailor each groom to match your requirements and that of your dog. A full treatment groom will include all or some of the following; ear hair removal, ear and eye cleansing, nail clipping, pre-cut with scissors and/ or clippers, de-matting, de-knotting, dead hair removal, clipping of unwanted hair from paws and genitals, washing, conditioning, rinsing, high velocity drying, blow/ brush drying, finishing with scissors/ thinners/ clippers, application of finishing products as required/ requested. You can find out more about our different types of groom here our equipment and grooming parlour here.

Do you sterilise your equipment? 

Yes we do! We never use any equipment without it being sterilised first.

Do you offer hand-stripping?

We never hand-strip a dog before the coat is ready (when it is "blown"). Please do feel free to bring your dog in to us and we can check its coat for you. We Hand strip with two groomers were possible to minimise the length of time for the dog's happiness.

Do you use fragranced finishing sprays? 

We don't use "unnatural" products like colours, nail varnish or finishing sprays and fragrances that interfere with a dog's natural behaviour when it leaves our shop.

My dog is very matted?

As professional groomers, we are legally obliged to ensure that de-matting causes no unnecessary pain or suffering to your dog. If it is clear that to remove the matts will take too long, we will call you to discuss the options. Sometimes the best course of action is to remove the affected part of the coat with clippers as the only pain-free solution to the most severe matting problems. Hair will grow back, whereas leaving matts untreated can lead to more serious health issues.

I wont be able to make my appointment, what do I do?

Please respect the Bone Idol team and call us to let us know that you can’t make an appointment and  to re-schedule. We require 24 hours notice, if less than that unfortunately we charge a 50% fee for missed appointments.

My dog can sometimes be aggressive; can they still be groomed?

As professional dog groomers it is part of our role to keep your pet calm. We know how to handle and talk to your pet and this solves the majority of these issues. Muzzles will be used only as a last resort and normally if required, will only be applied for a very short part of the process. It is very rare to find an ‘un-groomable' dog, but if we come across any serious problems during a visit we will of course discuss them with you so we can agree on the best solution together.

Can my elderly dog be groomed?

All dogs can benefit from the care and attention of a groom. We always ask to be made fully aware in advance of your pet’s age and problems so we can ensure that  your canine companion is as comfortable as possible during their visit. If in any doubt, please consult your vet who will help you to decide whether there would be any adverse risk in grooming your older dog.

How frequently should I have my dog groomed?

Frequency of grooming visits really depends on the breed of dog and the choice of styling for your pet. We have pet parents who pop in weekly for a wash and tidy.  However the following information will give you a rough guide:

  • Curly coated breeds such as Bichons and Labradoodles will benefit from regular visits every 4 to 6 weeks.

  • Wiry coated breeds such as West Highland, Terriers, Schnauzers and Deerhounds, every 6 to 10 weeks.

  • Long silky breeds such as Maltese Terriers, Afghan Hounds, Spaniels and Setters can vary between 4 and 8 weeks dependent largely on what degree of care is given by their owners between grooming visits.

  • Short coated breeds such as Labradors or Corgis will normally benefit from a groom every 10 – 12 weeks

  • Double coated breeds such as Husky, St. Bernard, Collies and Sheepdogs, between 2 and 3 visits per year dependent on individual coats and between-visit coat care.

I have a question which is not covered by the FAQ’s?

Just pop in to see us at the Bone Idol Shop on St James's Street, Brighton or call us on 01273 695631