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DC PETROPOLIS

New clients

We take new clients by application rather than automatically, so we can make sure every dog who walks in is one we can look after properly.

How applying works

  1. 1

    Apply

    Fill in the application. It takes about ten minutes, and you’ll need a couple of things ready — see below.

  2. 2

    Hear back

    We email you about next steps, and every application is read by a person.

  3. 3

    A short call

    We find a time for a short call to go over everything in more detail.

  4. 4

    Introductory visits

    Your dog comes in for 4 complimentary visits to get to know our space and the team, before any grooming.

  5. 5

    First groom

    We book your first appointment. We’re typically 4 weeks out, so a little planning helps.

First, check you’re a fit

  • Up to 60 lbs

    Larger dogs are considered case by case, depending on the details — if yours is bigger, tell us about them when you apply.

  • Some breeds we cannot take

    19 breeds, and close mixes of them. This is not a judgment of any dog — it is about size and strength, and being honest about where our safety limits lie.

  • We clip down rather than demat

    Sanity before vanity. We work through small tangles, but a severely matted coat is clipped down, with your approval, rather than put through a long dematting session.

  • No live fleas or ticks

    We do not use medicated shampoo, and live fleas are unsafe for our staff and for the other dogs in our care that day.

  • No aggressive behavior

    If a dog shows aggression toward other dogs or our groomers, including during grooming itself, we are unable to continue service. It keeps the studio low-stress and safe for every animal and person in it.

  • Seen at least every 8 weeks

    We ask to see every dog at least once every 8 weeks, and make some exceptions depending on the details. There are important reasons behind this policy, primarily coat condition, skin health, and maintaining positive grooming behavior, so sessions never become stressful for your dog — or for us.

What you’ll need ready

  • Current vaccination records — Rabies, Bordetella, and DAPP/DHPP (parvovirus & distemper). A PDF or a photo of the paperwork works.
  • Your vet’s office name and phone number
  • A photo of your dog (it helps us recognize them on day one)

The vaccination records and photo are uploaded in the form itself, so have them on your phone or computer before you start.

Applying isn’t a request for a specific appointment — it’s how we start the conversation. At the end of the form you’ll sign ourPet Service Agreement.

4 complimentary introductory visits

Every new client’s dog comes in for 4 complimentary introductory visits before grooming begins. Think of them as free daycare-style sessions: a chance to get to know our space, the sounds and smells, and — most importantly — the team members who will be working with your dog. We’ve found this transition period is essential for building comfort and trust.

Ready to apply?

Applications take about ten minutes. We’re typically booked 4 weeks ahead, so a little planning helps.

Apply to become a client