First off, the level of care given can only come from a true dog lover!!! I am a worry-wart parent and I get very upset leaving my baby with anyone. Due to a mauling of my dog at another groomer my Noelle is very nervous when she sees and even hears other dogs. She is a people friendly Cockapoo Mix that hates being around unfamiliar dogs. She will bark and snarl and even start salivating at the sight of other dogs. This can be quite the challenge when it comes time for her 6-week grooming appointments!
When I first called to book my appointment, I was completely upfront about Noelles history of being attacked and that she now acts defensive when dogs are around. I could tell Olivia understood why Noelle barks and growls at other dogs. She made me feel confident that she grooms other dogs with the same anxiety and even called it a form of dog PTSD. The owner, Olivia, told me she would make certain that Noelle was the only dog in the shop and even suggested coming in last appointment of the day to make sure no dogs would be dropped off during her grooming.
I was welcomed straight away, and they had all my contact information ready for verification while Noelle sniffed around. The owner, Olivia, asked me if I had something specific in mind for her cut. I am so used to groomers telling ME how to groom her! I told her I am not picky, but I explained I needed the hair on her feet as short as possible because of Noelles seasonal allergies. Olivia shared some tips on how to soothe her inflamed feet and asked if we have ever done Clean Poodle Feet. I was unsure but I trusted her advice when she said it would make her feet very easy to wipe off after walks. Then Olivia asked if Noelle had any pain where her enormous scars are from her incident. I explained to be careful picking her up and she allowed me to show her how. I was happy when Olivia asked if I wanted to leave enough length to conceal her scarred rib cage after I had forgotten to mention it! Our whole check in time lasted about 25 minutes and I left knowing she was with someone who cared about how she was feeling on the inside and out.
A couple hours later and I got a text that she was almost ready and to head on down. I was so excited when I saw her! Olivia had done everything we talked about before I left and on top of all that Noelle got a teeth brushing and nail filing with her groom! Usually I have to pay extra for add ons so that was a pleasant surprise.
6 weeks later I decided to give Looking Sharp another whirl.....I thought the first time was great but WOW the second groom..BEST GROOM SHE HAS EVER HAD BY FAR! I dont know how she does it, but I have never used a more talented groomer. Olivia really made my dog look like a show dog and I could tell my dog felt as good as she looked. She was the softest ever and smelled like heaven! And both times, I went to drop and pick my dog she was the ONLY dog there as promised. This really puts my mind at ease knowing she is safe at the groomers. I even recommended a few friends over to Looking Sharp and everyone has called me just to say thank you. I cant believe I am actually excited to take Noelle to her groomer! I never thought she would enjoy it again either! Thank you, Olivia, for the wonderful service and beautiful haircut! I will be such a proud mama strolling around the neighborhood with fluffy show dog.