Frequently Asked Questions & Grooming Policies

Find the answers to our most frequently asked questions below, and read about our policies for safety and care during the grooming process. Give us a call if you have a question that isn’t answered below!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Tails and Ales has a 24 hour cancellation/reschedule policy. Repeat cancellations/rescheduled appointments within the 24 hour window and repeat no-shows may result in a required nonrefundable 50% deposit to book.

  • Yes! We welcome dogs of all sizes, breeds, and behavioral backgrounds!

    If your dog has a history of reactivity or aggression, please contact us directly to book at 828-624-9186. We will discuss your dogs specific needs to provide the most comfortable appointment. If your dog needs special accommodation, like an empty salon, we can offer early-morning and after-hours appointments. Please note that these services will be priced at a higher rate and may be booked further out than standard appointments.

  • For each appointment:

    • Your pet’s leash and collar/harness or secure carrier.

    • A digital signature to our Grooming Waiver prior to arriving. A new signature is needed for each appointment to confirm that your pet’s profile reflects any health changes since their last appointment. You will receive a link to sign the Grooming Waiver 48 hours prior to your appointment.

    For your pet’s first appointment and when updating their Rabies vaccination:

    • A digital or physical copy of your pet’s Rabies Vaccination Certificate. All dogs and cats are required to be vaccinated for Rabies per NC law.

  • Time estimates for each type of groom and pet size are listed under the Dog Grooming Services and Cat Grooming Services tabs. Times can vary based on coat length and density, desired cut, add-on services, and other factors. Your groomer will provide a better estimate during the drop-off consultation.

    We invite you to relax in our seating area and enjoy a drink made by our retail staff, or we will happily call when your pet has approximately 20 minutes left in their service.

  • Absolutely! We encourage you to check out our social media pages and gallery for pictures of the cut you have in mind, or feel free to bring a picture from elsewhere!

  • Yes! If your pet has been prescribed medicated shampoo by their vet, please let us know when booking and be sure to bring it with you for your appointment. Your groomer will discuss your pet’s skin concern with you to avoid any additional products used in the grooming process that may irritate their condition.

  • Recommended frequency will vary depending on your pet’s coat and skin.

    Short-haired pets that don’t require haircuts can maintain a schedule of every 6-8 weeks.

    Long-haired pets should be groomed every 4-6 weeks to prevent matting and protect skin and coat health. Pets with specific haircuts may require more frequent appointments to maintain the style.

    Your groomer can recommend a schedule that will keep your pet looking and feeling their best.

  • We recommend bringing your puppy as soon as they have their required Rabies vaccination! Introducing the grooming experience early allows your puppy to meet the tub, the table, and the clippers with a shorter appointment. This improves their relationship with the grooming experience and can prevent anxiety on the table.

Grooming Policies

Tails and Ales is committed to your pet’s happiness, health, and safety.
Below are our policies that allow us to prioritize their wellbeing during their time with us.

  • All pets that enter Tails and Ales must remain on a leash or securely contained in a pet carrier, regardless of the reason for the visit. This is an important safety measure as not all visitors who open the door are mindful of loose pets and not all pets have compatible personalities.

  • All known behavioral and medical conditions and any recent veterinarian visits must be disclosed to your groomer prior to each appointment. Conditions may include, but are not limited to, aggression, anxiety, allergies, pregnancy, nursing, heart murmur, and recent surgery. Knowledge of these conditions and visits allow your groomer to watch for warning signs in your pet.

  • We accepts dogs with a history of fearful and anxious behaviors on the grooming table and dogs that have never been professionally groomed before. If your dog has a fearful reaction during the grooming process, your groomer will take breaks and work with your dog as appropriate to make them as comfortable as possible.

    If your groomer feels it isn’t possible or safe to complete the groom scheduled, they will stop the appointment early to prioritize your pet’s health. Avoiding extreme stress will allow your pet to build trust and feel more comfortable over time.

  • Mat Fees: If mats are discovered during the grooming process, or if there are significantly more mats than discussed during the drop-off consultation, one or more Mat Removal Fees of $10 each may be charged. If the mats are decided to be too severe to remove safely, your groomer will refer you to your veterinarian for safe removal.

    Difficult Pet Fees: A Difficult Pet Fee of $10 may be charged for various scenarios such as undisclosed behavioral issues or re-bathing needed due to bathroom accidents.

    Flea & Tick Fees:

    If ticks are discovered during the grooming process, the ticks will be removed and one or more Tick Removal Fees of $20 may be charged

    If an infestation of fleas are discovered during the grooming process, services will be stopped and you will be contacted for immediate pickup and referred to your veterinarian. A Flea Charge of $20 will be charged.

  • Tails and Ales requires a 24 hour cancellation notice for all appointments. Repeated no-shows and last-minute cancellations may result in a 100% deposit being required for your appointments.

  • If you are more than 15 minutes late you may be asked to reschedule your appointment due to groomer time constraints.