Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why should I bathe my dog at Wags to Whiskers vs. at home?
A: Wags to Whiskers has four elevated self serve pet wash tubs. Elevated tubs made specifically for pet bathing reduces both back strain on the bather and stress on the pet. We provide everything necessary to minimize stress for both you and your pet(s). This includes a wide variety of shampoos for every dog and coat condition; fresh clean towels; regulated instant warm water, washcloths, brushes, and tub restraints. What’s the best feature of Wags to Whiskers’ self serve pet wash? We clean up the mess! No more stretching and straining to get hair out of your drain or clean mud and water off your walls!

Q: How frequently should I bathe my pet?
A: Veterinarians recommend bathing pets regularly every four weeks. However, some pets also need full service grooming. To keep your pet in top condition, Wags to Whiskers recommends full service grooming every 6-8 weeks along with a bath every 3-4 weeks (between full service grooming appointments).

Q: What if my pet was skunked or has fleas?
A: Skunked pets and pets with fleas require an appointment at all times. Please call for information and additional charges will apply.  We can make accommodations for pets in many conditions but difficult cases will be referred to a veterinarian.

Q: What if my pet is severely matted?
A: Full service grooming appointments will be accepted only at the discretion of the groomer handling your pet. Upon arrival for your appointment, the groomer will examine your pet. If found in beyond normal and safe grooming condition, your pet will be referred to a veterinarian for proper care and grooming. Standard full service grooming of severely matted dogs is very stressful for both the animal and the groomer and can cause serious injury to both. We recommend that pets, especially those with long and heavy coats, be groomed regularly every 6-8 weeks along with daily home brushing, to avoid stressful and dangerous grooming situations.

Q: Does my pet need vaccinations to use your facility?
A: Pets are only required by law to be vaccinated against rabies once every 3 years. We do not require proof of vaccination. Speak to your local county representatives if you have additional questions regarding vaccination laws. Over vaccination (vaccinosis) is a serious health problem that contributes to a whole host of immune dysfunction. We encourage titer testing to check for immunity. Speak with your veternarian regarding titer testing, research on your own and be educated before vaccinating your pet.

Q: Is the Wags to Whiskers facility clean?
A: Yes! We maintain top sanitary conditions by disinfecting all tubs and grooming tools with commercial grooming salon disinfectant between every grooming and bathing. All towels are washed on site after each use in the hottest possible water and dried at the hottest available setting. We also clean the floors regularly, and use a dehumidifier to inhibit mold and mildew growth. Should you ever find conditions unsatisfactory, please notify store management immediately.

Q: What’s the best way to bathe and dry my pet?
A: Come into Wags to Whiskers with your pet. Choose your shampoo, get your towels and be escorted to your tub. Place your pet into the tub (use the ramp or step up if necessary) and secure it by the neck using the tub restraint provided. Feel free to pre-brush to loosen hair. Start wetting the pet at the neck, working your way towards the tail; then wet the chest/belly, legs, and feet. Use only the washcloth provided for the face and head to avoid getting water in the ears and eyes. Completely soap the pet, scrubbing the coat in the direction the fur grows (from the top down) using either your hands or the rubber bath brush provided. Thoroughly rinse in the same manner to prevent any soap residue from accumulating on your pet’s coat. When finished, squeeze excess water from your pet’s coat and towel dry. Next, use the forced air dryer (no heat, for your pet’s safety!) to blast the remaining water off its coat, and use the brushes provided to remove excess hair. If your pet is sensitive to the dryer noise, and/or prone to ear problems from water, gently place cotton balls in the ears. Talk to your pet to keep it calm – and of course, before you leave, be sure to buy your pet a special treat or toy as a reward!

Q: Why isn’t the water hot?
A: For your pet’s safety, water temperature is precisely controlled at the water heater and recirculated into each tub. Hot water dries your pet’s skin. Pets also tend to overheat when stressed. Luke warm water may seem cold to you, but it is much more comfortable for your pet.

Q: Why isn’t the dryer warm?
A: For the same reason that hot water may be harmful. Air from a dryer that is too warm is dangerous for your pet, especially in a situation when it may be stressed. Remember, if it is slightly cold to you, it is probably just right for your pet. The dryer uses forced air that warms gradually through use. If it seems just too cold, place your hand over the blowing nozzle to create more friction to slightly warm the air. If your pet simply won’t allow you to blow dry, please feel free to ask for more towels.

Q: Is there a place for me to keep a second pet while I wash my first pet?
A: Yes! Please ask to use a crate (if available) or feel free to leash your pet to any of the wall hitches around the store.

Q: Do you offer a pick up and drop off service for grooming appointments?
A: Wags to Whiskers has an agreements with several pet sitters in the area. Pick up and drop off service is handled through independent providers in the Plainfield area. Please call Wags to Whiskers to make your grooming appointment, then we will refer you to arrange for this service.

Q: What about my very big or tiny pet?
A: Our state of the art tubs accommodate the largest of Great Danes to the smallest Chihuahuas. Conveniently designed to hold the biggest dogs, they allow the bather access from both sides – no need to turn the dog around in the tub! Additionally, a shallow angled, skid-proof ramp and low step-in height eliminate the need to lift your pet into the tub. Our convenient “little pet tray” adapts our tubs for efficient use with small dogs, elevating your pet to a comfortable working height – included in the price.

Q: What if my dog is aggressive, or just doesn’t like other dogs or people?
A: Wags to Whiskers personnel understand that not all dogs enjoy the company of strangers (furry or not), we try to accommodate privacy requests. Please keep in mind that all of our tubs are semi-private for everyone’s comfort. If you have an overly aggressive dog, we suggest that you call ahead for special arrangements. We do provide muzzles at no charge upon request for up to 15 minutes (time limit established for the dog’s safety and comfort).