When I first called, she was hurried. Maybe I called at a bad time; I get that. But when I brought my cat in, she was also very rushed. I get being efficient and fast. But not hurried to the point of sacrificing practical or necessary etiquette [directly relevant to how you come off, as a business person or professional]. This woman grabbed and dragged my cat out of his carrier - at one point, lifting him nearly off his feet like that...and he is a dense-weighted adult - not a light-weight kitty...you are NOT supposed to lift an adult cat like that, without supporting their bottom - it's too much stress on the throat.
The other thing I didn't appreciate, is that she hadn't even cleaned off her grooming table - so she was picking big tufts of pet hair off my cat, and s***. And she gave him a quick brush, which was a nice gesture - but again, with the station not being clean...how do I know where that brush has been? I don't know what infestation or filth some other pet has had - in that fur all over the table, or that brush! So I was pissed.
It all happened so fast, and there was another customer behind me - so I didn't confront her right there, I just paid and left. But I hope she reads this - because I sure as hell want her to know my mind on the matter. My cat was stressed and hissing and angry. No cat likes this, much. But he was markedly more stressed and upset, than usual; and his particular breed is even easier to stress, than other cats. She insisted on holding him herself, as opposed to letting me hold him [as I usually do - which saves him AND the groomer, some stress...as well as the possibility of getting bitten; because while the groomer may know their job - I know my cat...they don't]. Once I got there, I could see why - considering the set up. But she could and should have, been more considerate of him, the creature. Because it isn't just about aiming for top-notch speed, or being conveniently fast for the pet owner - its about treating the animals well...and keeping a clean grooming station, too.
When I got home, I also realized that she only trimmed the TIPS off his nails - not close to the quick, as it should be done. An issue I expressly discussed with her, beforehand. Also, one of his nails is split [as though cracked from a dull blade]; and all of them are ragged. FYI: I have him trimmed on a regular basis [it's just our first time with her]. So now he's going to need a second trim, just to correct her shoddy work. I was surprised, honestly - because of what I could find, she had good reviews.
Needless to say - I will not be going back there. Which is a shame, as it was affordable and nearby; she also seems like a nice enough person, with the potential to have an all-around great service. But she won't, until she slows down enough to be clean and do a good job - and comprehends the value of handling a creature with more gentleness and respect.
MY REPLY TO YOUR RESPONSE, JANET:
You clearly missed the part where I said that I COULD SEE WHY it wasn't a good idea, once I saw the set up of your place. It actually made sense that I NOT hold him, under the circumstance. That was never my hang up. He's just calmer when I hold him, and far less likely to bite the groomer; but if the groomer treats him well, and doesn't mind the risk - I'm fine with that. Also, I have no problem with speed or efficiency - but rather hurrying AT THE COST of other important factors. Neither did I complain about him being scruffed, but THE MANNER IN WHICH YOU DID IT - AND NOT SUPPORTING HIS BOTTOM. Also, I do not expect an "un-lived in" tidiness - esp. in a grooming place; but I did expect the station you used, to be cleaned before setting him on it. It was not. And by s*** - I meant "and all that". As for his trim: all I know, is that he gets one regularly - and they have never before, been ragged OR split to the quick. And they could have been trimmed another GOOD BIT, without hitting the quick. But then, I guess I wouldn't have to come as often - right? I'm glad the brush was clean. I did not *personally* feel rushed - but your manner with my cat was crude, and made an already stressful event for him - even more so. I know my cat; he was clearly stressed - and this continued after he was in the car, and for awhile when he got home. Also, as I mentioned - you were apparently too rushed, to be sure the table was cleaned off for him, your next client.
Janet - I have no reason to lie. My review was honest, and without exaggeration. And I don't appreciate your attempt to twist things, and deflect from what I was actually saying. I'm not out to get you - I'm just pissed at how you handled things. Perhaps you might consider the opportunity to improve your services. Or not. That's your business. read more