Clinical & Salon Overview
Showing up prepared makes grooming day smoother for your pet, faster for the groomer, and cheaper for you — because a forgotten vaccine record means a rescheduled appointment. Here's the complete checklist our Memphis salon wishes every client followed.
Three things are required, no exceptions.
Three things are required, no exceptions. First, proof of current vaccinations — rabies at minimum, plus whatever your vet recommends for your pet's age and lifestyle. A clear photo on your phone is fine; it doesn't need to be paper. Second, a leash and collar (dogs) or a secure carrier (cats). Retractable leashes are a hazard in a salon full of moving animals — bring a standard 4–6 foot leash. Third, a way to pay and a way to be reached: make sure the phone number on your booking is one you'll actually answer, because we'll call the moment your pet is ready.
Bring your pet's favorite treats if they have dietary restrictions or allergies
Bring your pet's favorite treats if they have dietary restrictions or allergies — we keep treats on hand, but yours are guaranteed safe. Bring any medicated shampoo your vet prescribed, with clear instructions. If your pet takes anxiety medication before grooming, give it at home on your vet's schedule and tell us you did — timing matters, and double-dosing is a real risk when communication fails. A familiar-smelling blanket can help nervous first-timers settle in the kennel area.
The intake conversation matters more than anything in your bag.
The intake conversation matters more than anything in your bag. Tell us about: recent illness or diarrhea, new foods, skin changes you've noticed, lumps or sensitive spots, behavioral quirks ("he hates his back feet touched," "she's fine with the dryer but not the clippers near her face"), and what you actually want — bring a photo of the haircut you like. "Short" means different things to different people; a photo ends the debate. Also mention if your pet has ever bitten, snapped, or needed a muzzle. We handle it routinely and without judgment.
Leave the retractable leash at home.
Leave the retractable leash at home. Leave choke chains and prong collars — we have our own safe restraints. Don't bring siblings along "for company"; a second loose animal in the waiting area creates chaos. Don't bring a full meal to feed at drop-off — grooming on a full stomach plus car-ride nerves is a recipe for vomiting on the table. And leave your anxiety at the door if you can manage it: a calm, cheerful drop-off ("see you soon!") teaches your pet that this is normal. A tearful twenty-minute goodbye teaches them it's something to fear.
Arrive on time, not early
Arrive on time, not early — the salon runs on a schedule, and a dog waiting forty minutes in a lobby is a dog working itself into a state. When we call for pickup, come promptly; pets left waiting after their groom get restless and can undo good work (or stress themselves out). Ask at booking how long the appointment typically runs so you can plan your day. Most full grooms take 2–3 hours including bath, dry, and cut time.
Recommended Equipment & Mid-South Supplies
Professional equipment proven to maintain health between salon visits
Professional Grooming Undercoat Rake
Grooming Essentials
Stainless pins gently remove trapped dead undercoat without irritating sensitive skin.
All About Pawz Soothing Aloe & Oatmeal Wash
Shampoos & Conditioners
Veterinary-grade gentle formulation calms redness and itchy skin caused by Tennessee grass allergies.
All About Pawz Enzyme Dental Sticks
Wellness
Dual-action enzymatic chew cleans tartar, freshens breath, and protects gums between teeth brushings.
Enrichment Suction Bathing Lick Mat
Feeding & Watering
Keeps nervous dogs happily distracted during bathing, ear cleaning, and nail trimming sessions.
Serving Pets Across Greater Memphis & Shelby County
Whether you live near Midtown, Germantown, Bartlett, Collierville, or Arlington, All About Pawz offers full salon appointments and concierge pet care.