A Nightmare You Don't Want to Subject Your Beloved Pet To I've never been so furious in writing a review. If you love your cat, do not--DO NOT--bring them here. Our cat came back looking as though he'd been through a horror show, and we are livid. Bruises All Over from "Gentle Grooming" (we have pictures) Our cat was a long hair that we asked to have their fur taken down to that of a short hair cat. What was unforgivable were the purple, fingerprint-shaped bruises scattered across his body. When we first saw those marks, we were horrified and confused: bruises? How could regular grooming leave deep purple handprints on our pet? We immediately took him to the vet, who confirmed they were bruises--plain and simple. This was not a sleepy "heavier-handed" brushing; these were bruises from someone handling him roughly enough to leave real-live finger marks. Cuts, Cuts, and More Cuts If bruises weren't appalling enough, the groomer also managed to slice our cat multiple times with her clippers or scissors. These weren't tiny nicks; we could plainly see irritated, bleeding slashes in his skin where she obviously rushed or mishandled the tools. We've taken our cat to other groomers before--no one else in their right mind inflicts this kind of damage on a healthy, cooperative animal. Our Once-Happy Cat Was a Panicked, Hissing Mess Our normally sweet, affectionate cat came home terrified, his personality completely altered. He hissed at us--his own family--cowered in corners, and spent hours hiding under furniture, trembling. He refused to engage with any of his favorite toys or treats. He was in a full panic. Whatever "technique" this groomer used traumatized him beyond belief. Quite frankly, it felt like we picked up a stranger from the shop--an anxious, broken version of the cat we dropped off that morning. Pushing an Unreasonable Subscription Plan Instead of acknowledging their horrific performance, the groomer had the gall to pitch us a subscription plan--a monthly grooming plan--for an outrageous fee. They tried to convince us that our cat "needed" this routine maintenance. Are you kidding? After the physical and emotional trauma their so-called "service" inflicted, the last thing we want is to trust them near our cat again. This pushy upsell felt downright predatory: gouging a raw deal to "maintain" a pet they'd already harmed. Final Verdict: Avoid This Place at All Costs If you love your animal, do not, under any circumstances, take them here. I'm seething that we even gave them a chance. Every parent of a cat knows that trust and safety come first. This groomer not only violated that trust but injured our cat both physically and mentally. They clearly lack basic compassion, competence, or respect for the creatures they claim to care for. Save yourself--and your pet--from this horror. Take your cat to a groomer who actually cares about--and knows how to handle--animals safely. Our experience here was nothing short of negligence bordering on cruelty. We're deeply angry, heartbroken for our cat, and will never forgive the damage they inflicted. read more

Unfortunately, I have to update our previous review as I noticed it is still getting hits based on a write-up which no longer reflects our experience. After roughly a year of bringing our dog here (since he was a puppy so he would develop a relationship), this business completely "ghosted" us as the kids say. We went to make our appointment in advance as usual and were told they'd get back to us with availability...no response. Reached out multiple additional times and were told they'd get back to us with availability...no response. Now late for grooming with a dog starting to matte, we reached out to owner who told us they'd call back...no response. Strangest thing. I would have been content with a(n early), "Hi, we're really sorry but [insert reason here: your dog is getting too big, your dog in a pain in the hindquarters, you don't tip well enough, your dog is too much work, we're simply too busy, etc] and we're not going to be able to schedule and tend to your pup the way we would like" but no such luck. Just leaving us hanging with a perpetual promise to get back to us regarding availability was terribly odd and unprofessional. Really a shame because we enjoyed supporting this small local business and were very fond of their team. Silver lining: After a bit of work, we've found good service elsewhere. I try not to drop bad reviews in anything but the worst circumstances, but this felt like it needed an update since I couldn't simply delete our initial 5-star experience. YELP: if you are able to delete both reviews, please feel free. read more

I implore you not to use Elysiem's services. They accidentally sheared my dog to the skin under his arm pit causing a severe rash that required me to go to the vet to seek care for him. I've attached a photo of the initial burn, but it got much worse. When I called Elysiem to make them aware of the issue, they refused to apologize and said they had no way to make amends given they don't issue refunds after 48 hours. How does that make any sense? I will never trust them with caring for my dog again, and I suggest you don't either. read more

Elysiem - Dog's under arm with burn mark from Elysiem's poor groomers - Pet Stores Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

I am scared to send my dog back after he came home bleeding and injured. The owners response has been unsatisfactory and I am horrified to think of what my baby may have gone through. read more

Elysiem - My dogs injured nail. - Pet Stores Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

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I am extremely disappointed with the groomer who took my cavapoo's fur completely off ! Goes on to give a ridiculous face trim , one half of the face trimmed off including his whiskers ! The groomer apologized saying she had a flat and had a rough morning. They did not follow my instructions, and I am disappointed. read more

Followed my instructions clearly and loved on my Pomapoo. Price was comparable to most groomers in the area. We are happy!

This is my first time at Elysiem. I read a lot of positive reviews and done some research. Seems like the cost is in line with everyplace else which I think is high. Over $100 for a 12lb dog. Be that as it may, my dogs were nervous upon arrival. Yvette came out to meet them and talk thru their cuts. She asked good questions and could not have been kinder. We were pretty specific in how we Iike them to look. They do not crate the dogs here which I love. When I picked them up they seemed happy and they LOOKED GREAT! Yvette really listened to what we asked for and delivered. She is very caring and has such a sweet was about her. We will be back! read more

My dog is terrified of this place! It has dark windows and you can't see your dog being groomed. Ginger (my dog) was always so scared whenever we went there, and she also developed a fear of hair dryers. We started taking her to another place and she's stopped being scared of the groomers, as well as being scared when we go to give her a bath. read more

I took my senior dogs to Elysiem in January of this year and after years of knowing the owner who is very nice, as was the woman at the front desk, neither dog was groomed as requested. One passed away a few days later (not from the grooming) and when I called to discuss making amends for my surviving pup a few weeks later I was first blamed for not calling sooner - my soul dog just died. That was highly inappropriate. And then told they make no promises for senior dogs. That's a reasonable policy, but only if you tell the client that before you charge them $300. I believe they also lied about the extras being done at all. Then I was accused of lying about what I was told. I wasn't told any of that and my baby boy basically wasn't cut at all, even though we went through exactly which level I wanted with pictures and he's plenty healthy to have a full grooming. I was offered no refund or compensation except for a free bath and a light trim next time after a heated discussion. I should have received a full refund for the healthy dog and an apology instead of being accused of making things up. read more

We absolutely LOve this place! Thanks for all tye yummy Broth! And look forward to being a part of your Social Media campaigns...where we are the Stars Love, Kismet and Konstantine #BethesdabodyworksbyEleni read more

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I've been a client here since 2019. They run a great business which is a plus, but the staff is also excellent. The groomers are superb. It's been a pleasure to watch them grow. read more

My dog loves this place and always comes back smelling like sunshine. Alexis clearly loves animals and spends so much time getting to know them and their "attitudes." Highly recommend! read more

Pet Parents is a wonderful salon and shop! I took my chihuahua poodle mix, Nachy, to see Reuben for a haircut. Nachy is usually terrified when I take him to get groomed, but but with Reuben he was happy and relaxed before, during, and after his beauty session. We are both very happy with his new 'do! The store is well appointed with a cultivated selection of pet accessories, toys, and treats (treat samples too!). The owner John is very kind and welcoming. I highly recommend Pet Parents. read more

Brought my dog there for a grooming, and it was a MUCH better experience than I expected. My dog is often scared if someone else takes him away from me on a leash, and this was no exception. Reuben (groomer) handled it like a PRO! He had the right tools, an amazing attitude, and was super patient. He let me go into the room to help get my dog in and keep him calm. Of course my dog was still a bit scared, but he made it through, and it was all thanks to Reuben! (Not to mention, doggy looks AMAZING now! Because of the dog, Reuben couldn't use some of his usual tools, and he still went above and beyond.) Thank you, Reuben! Bonus shout-out to the other staff at Pet Parents who were also calm and patient throughout, gave my dog some new treats, and offered to help me find a future new harness. Thank you! read more

HORRIBLE experience... unprofessional, incompetent, dishonest, and careless! They hurt and damaged my poor puppy. I specifically asked for no cutting, and they destroyed my dog's coat (show coat), and it has not grown back since. But worst of all, the inconsiderate groomer damaged my poor puppy's trachea. I have spent so much on vet bills because of the terrible mistake of taking my poor dog to Elysium. It has been such a traumatizing experience. Do not trust them with your dog. For the sake of your dog's health and well-being, please stay away. read more

I've been in 3 times. The owner is super cool and very knowledgeable about everything he's doing. Great selection of different toys, beds, treats, and food with unbeatable customer service! Keep it up 5+ stars read more

I have to start by saying the owner John is wonderful. His store is full of top notch pet food, treats, and all kinds of quality pet paraphernalia to choose from! Even custom made pet beds, and a new addition of a 'one dog' grooming room... Reuben is a 20yr groomer and knows his stuff! If they don't carry something, they will do their best to get it for you! John has delivered my dogs food when I was in a pinch and needed it right away! They are also a wealth of information when it comes to your pet! In particular, LAUREN, is incredibly helpful, knowledgeable and an experienced former Vet Tech, which is a plus! I brought my 13 yr old Border Terrier in, a day after she had gotten into some dark chocolate! She survived it ok, eliminating what she needed to, but was a bit lethargic. LAUREN checked her out completely, while asking lots of questions. She advised me of some things to look for and know if, God forbid, this ever would happen again! Lauren is not only caring and compassionate, but was so reassuring that my BetteBoo would be fine....just keep her away from the chocolate, and onions ! Lol All that being said...this is a top notch, quality Pet Store! read more

Love Pet Parents. John, Reuben and Stefanie are terrific. I love a place where when I walk in with my dog, they immediately greet him by name before they greet me. I read the negative review about the owner and I think it was just an angry person having a really bad day. When I brought my dog in for grooming and he started flipping out when I left, it was the owner, John who picked him up and held him until it was time for Reuben to take over. What stands out is not just the quality of the items, or the awesome grooming, but that these people love our dogs, signed, Kemba's mom read more

Our Bernese Mountain Dog, Darcy loves coming to Elysiem. It's a very stress free environment for the dogs ~ it's quiet, no cages, they are efficient and don't keep your pet all day. We always pick up a treat for her after in their very nice store! read more

Great selection of treats, food, and toys. We love bringing our dog here. They also have fun events on the weekends, including a Frenchie social and a small breed social. The store always looks great and has a welcoming atmosphere. The owner, John, and store manager, Gabe, will treat you like family! read more

I was looking for a medication to sooth my dogs ears from uncomfortable itch and smell. I was recommended a natural product. I was surprised to see my large dog loving the relief as I massaged his ear with a soaked medicated tissue. He didn't back away, rather he enjoyed it. The smell was gone in 15 minutes and the directions say I can use it as often needed! Great advice! read more

What a wonderful, wonderful pet supply shop. They have a nice variety of pet supplies, health items, pet snacks/food, you name it. I was especially pleased with the selection of natural healthy food and ingredients available for competitive prices. It is clean and bright and neatly organized and smells lovely...some pet stores (I'm looking at you Petco) have a heavy "pet" smell. Perhaps the biggest draw aside from the quality merchandise is the incredibly kind owner who spent a few minutes advising and helping me select a few items for my puppy. He wasn't pushy (I hate pushy) and seemed genuinely interested in my pet and finding the best items for him. It is a great addition to Bethesda and I am so pleased it is nearby. read more

This shop is such a great addition to the Woodmont Triangle area! The owners are extremely nice and welcoming each time I go in. They have a good selection of healthier treats that my pup loves as well as a selection of food, accessories, and their dog walking services (which I haven't tried yet). It's nice to have this place so close to home! read more

This is absolutely what a Pet Store should be about. On my first visit I literally watch the Owner tend to a sick French Bulldog. He was so compassionate it was a true site to see. The staffs knowledge on Dogs are unbelievable, it gives me great pleasure to know I am receiving this level of service. I'm not knocking other Pet Stores but if you want that true professional and family service. Pet Parents hands down is the place to go , if I could give 10 Stars I would. read more

If I could give them 10 stars I would! If you are anything like me and you have a four-legged child that means the world to you and you are concerned about who will be taking care of him/her, then this is the only option! I have worked with other pet sitting services; but PET PARENTS uses technology that I have never seen before! There is a magnet that you put on the side of your refrigerator with a barcode and each time the pet sitter comes in they scan the code so you know what time they arrived and you know what time they left. They send you pictures and little write up's as well. Now I have a kitty and they normally do dogs but John will accommodate you! read more

Awesome store for pet lovers! Friendly and knowledgeable owner, great product selection!!

Paws down, this is the best pet store in Bethesda area! John and his team are great! The shop design is wonderful, it is alway very clean and well organized. They always have pet related events going on for the community. Great selection of toys, food and treats for both cat and dog alike. Only thing we would like to see them add is frozen raw pet food. Our pupper loves to go to Pet Parents hang out and for the free treats while we pick up a refill on his food or more treats :) read more

We stopped by this cute pet boutique yesterday and it is a gem. They car a good assortment of premium pet food, beds, toys, leases and colors and clothing. They were helpful and it was fun to see some new items. I purchased a fun bow tie from Scotland for our dog. Try it out. You won't regret it. read more

What a terrific addition to our Bethesda neighborhood. The shop on Fairmont across from Woodmont Triangle (parking meters right in front of the store) is bright, welcoming and clean. Gabriel,who has helped us on each occasion, is knowledgeable about all of his products & comes up with good suggestions/alternatives. He also provides samples of treats and food so your pet can try the food before investing in the product. Surprisingly, prices appear competitive & reasonable. Please stop by. I am always thrilled to frequent the mom & pop shops in our area when they are reliable and good. read more

By far the best local store. Not only are they knowledgeable but their delivery service is fantastic. This store makes a good argument for smaller local business. Pricing is highly competitive as well. read more

A great store!! Both the owner, John, and the manager truly care about all pets. This store has the ability to search out and find good healthy food/treats for dogs and cats. The store sells unique toys. I bought a cat toy for a friends cat in NY last June and the cat still loves playing with it. My dog trainer says the training treats are loved by all dogs! I would highly recommend this store to everyone. read more