Dogtor Wash
Guide

How to get ready for a mobile dog groom 

Getting ready for a mobile groom is simple. The van is a whole grooming studio that brings its own water and power. You just need a spot to park near your door and a phone that is on.

What to do before we arrive 

Take your dog for a quick walk so they have gone potty. A walk also helps them settle and burn off nervous energy before the groom starts.

Water is fine any time. Skip a big meal right before the visit. A light breakfast earlier in the morning is best, so there is time to digest before the bath.

Brush out any loose hair if you have time. It is not required, but it helps, especially for curly coats, fleece coats, or long hair. Brushing also helps you and us see what is underneath.

No need to bathe your dog or shampoo them first. We do that with the right products for their coat.

  • Walk your dog

  • Light meal earlier, no big meal right before

  • Brush out loose hair (nice to have, not required)

  • Make sure your phone is on and charged

What to tell us when you book 

Tell us about anything that matters to your dog. Sore spots, things they dislike, health conditions, and any medicine they take help us plan the gentlest visit.

For example, if your dog has a tender paw or does not like their ears touched, we know to be extra careful.

Describe the cut you want. If you have a photo on your phone of a style you like, bring it or send it ahead. We match what you are looking for as closely as we can.

We also know the limits of what keeps a dog comfortable, and we say so.

Let us know if your dog has knots or matting. We put welfare first. If the kindest option is a shorter cut than you hoped, we tell you before we start and we explain why.

Knots fee from $20 per 20 minutes, up to 3 blocks total. Tell us when you book so we can set aside the time.

If your dog is new to grooming or has had a bad experience, tell us that too. We work with nervous dogs all the time, and knowing the history helps us plan.

Where can the van park? 

We need a spot close to your door. A driveway is perfect. A curb spot right near your entrance works too.

The van needs to be near enough that your dog does not have far to walk and that we can reach you easily.

If you live in a condo, apartment, or townhouse with shared parking, tell us the setup when you book. A visitor spot or a loading area near the entrance usually works.

If your building needs a pass or has rules, tell us ahead of time so we get it right.

Where paid parking is the only option, a parking fee can apply. We tell you if a fee is likely when you book.

What happens when we arrive 

We greet you and your dog. We agree on the exact cut you want, check your dog's coat and skin for anything we should know about, and confirm the price before anything starts.

No surprises. If the quote changes because we see matting or a health issue, we talk to you first.

One groomer works with your dog, start to finish. Most visits take 45 to 80 minutes. Some take longer if the dog has a thick coat, extra services, or needs patience.

Most dogs adjust to the van fast, especially once they see it is quiet, calm, and warm.

You can stay nearby and peek through the window any time. Your dog is secured safely the whole visit, and we never leave them alone.

What you do during the groom 

Stay nearby so we can reach you if we need to. You do not need to hover, but being close means we can talk to you quickly if something comes up.

Keep other pets inside so your dog stays calm and so the groomer is not distracted or worried about other animals. A dog that is nervous about other dogs benefits even more from this.

Keep the door area clear. The groomer needs easy access to set up and to talk with you at the start and end. A clear path also makes it safer for everyone.

If your dog seems worried or uncomfortable at any point, we notice and we stop. We will talk to you first before we keep going.

Your dog's welfare comes first.

What happens after we are done 

We bring your dog to you looking fresh and feeling calm. We send you before-and-after photos and a short report of the groom. You see what we did and what we noticed.

We offer your next visit so you can book ahead. Most dogs do better on a regular schedule. We suggest a schedule based on your dog's breed and coat.

Pay with card or cash at the van. We quote your total before the groom, plus HST, and we confirm it at the door.

If any add-ons came up, like a knots fee or a handling fee, we talk through them first. Tips are never expected and always welcome.

What the van brings 

The van has everything it needs on board. We bring our own water and power. We do not need your hose, your outlets, or your sink.

Only the spot to park.

The van is heated and air-conditioned, and the water is warm. Your dog is comfortable in every season, Canadian winters included.

The van is cleaned between every dog: the tub, the table, the tools. Your dog never shares the space with another dog.

Quick prep checklist 

Here is a simple checklist to make sure everything is ready for a smooth visit.

  • Book online or by phone at 289-828-4183

  • Tell us about sore spots, dislikes, and health conditions

  • Share a photo if you have a style in mind

  • Take your dog for a walk the morning of the visit

  • Clear a spot near your door for the van to park

  • Keep your phone on and charged

  • Keep other pets inside during the visit

  • Bring card or cash to pay

  • Stay nearby during the groom

  • Watch for the photos and report after we leave

Quick answers 

Do I need to be home?

For the first visit, yes please. We like to meet you and your dog, talk about the cut, and agree on the price together.

After that, tell us what works for you when you book. Some owners prefer to stay nearby; others trust us to handle it.

Do you need my water or power?

No. The van brings its own water, power, and heating system. We need nothing from your home except a spot to park near your door. No extension cords, no hoses, no access needed.

Should I bathe or brush my dog first?

No need to bathe. A quick brush is nice if you have time, especially for curly, long, or double coats.

It is not required, and many owners do not have time. We handle the bath, dry, and finish.

What if my dog has knots?

Tell us when you book so we can set aside the time. We put welfare first. Knots fee from $20 per 20 minutes, up to 3 blocks total.

If the kindest option is a shorter cut than you hoped, we tell you before we start and we explain why.

Where can I book in GTA West?

Online any day of the week, or call us at 289-828-4183. We serve Etobicoke, Mississauga, Brampton, Oakville, Burlington, Milton, Halton Hills, and Hamilton. Book online and pick the first time that suits you.

Ready for a calmer groom?

Book online any day, or call us at 289-828-4183.