frequently asked questions
general questions
What is in-home grooming and how does it work?
In-home grooming takes place in a dedicated salon space within the groomer’s home, rather than a busy shop or van. Pets at Furology enjoy quiet, one-on-one, cage-free care that feels more like visiting a friend than going to the groomer.
Where are you located?
Furology is located in the Abercromby neighborhood of the Villages of Cornwallis in Durham, NC. Our address is shared after booking due to our private in-home salon setting.
How long does an appointment usually take?
Grooming times vary based on coat condition, temperament, and services requested.
Typical time frames:
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Baths: 1–2 hours
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Haircuts: 1.5–3 hours
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Cats: 1.5–2 hours
Do I stay with my pet during grooming?
Due to our private, in-home setup, pet parents are unable to stay inside during services. Many clients choose to park nearby, relax, or enjoy a good book while their pet is with us.
Are your services suitable for anxious or fearful pets?
Yes—our services can be a great fit for nervous or fearful pets. We’re happy to work with you to create a plan that supports your pet’s individual needs throughout the grooming process.
How often should my pet be professionally groomed?
Did you know a dog’s skin cycle is just 21 days? Most dogs benefit from professional grooming every 4–6 weeks, depending on haircut style and individual needs. Cats are also typically recommended every 4–6 weeks.
Do you groom senior pets?
Yes, we groom senior pets.
Do you offer puppy or kitten introductory visits?
Yes, we offer puppy and kitten introductory services designed to create positive grooming experiences that last a lifetime.
Do you groom multiple pets at the same time?
We only groom multiple pets at the same time if they are from the same family. We have a safe, comfortable area for siblings to relax once their service is complete, and all other appointments are one-on-one and fully focused on your pet’s care and comfort.
Who qualifies for weather-flex appointments?
Weather-flex rescheduling with no cancellation fees is a benefit reserved for Furology Fresh Club members.
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dog grooming faq
What is included in a dog bath service?
Our dog bath services include:
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nail filing
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ear cleaning
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premium shampoo & conditioner
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gentle facial cleanse
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blow-out & brush-out
Learn more about bath services →
What is included in a dog haircut service?
Our dog haircut services include:
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customized haircut
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nail filing
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ear cleaning
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premium shampoo & conditioner
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gentle facial cleanse
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blow-out & brush-out
Learn more about haircut services →
Do you groom puppies?
Yes—we 💕💕💕 puppies. We offer specialized services designed to build trust and create positive grooming experiences that last a lifetime.
Learn more about puppy services →
How do you handle anxious or reactive dogs?
Every pet is different, and your stylist will work with you to create a plan that supports your dog’s individual needs. We use positive reinforcement, reward calm behavior, and move at your dog’s pace. Muzzles are used only when necessary for stylist safety and as a last resort.
What is signature care grooming?
Signature Care services are designed for reactive, and/or aggressive dogs. Each visit is thoughtfully tailored to your pet’s individual needs to ensure they feel safe, supported, and comfortable.
Learn more about signature care services →
Can you groom dogs with medical needs?
Yes, we can groom dogs with certain medical needs. Pets with heart conditions, cancer, or other medical concerns must be cleared by a veterinarian to ensure grooming outside of a medical setting is safe. Services are modified to accommodate your pet’s needs, and if at any point we feel it is unsafe to continue, the service will be stopped and you will be contacted. We do not provide services to dogs that are heartworm positive.
Do you offer de-shedding treatments?
Yes. We offer de-shedding treatments designed to reduce shedding, improve coat health, and support the skin. Guaranteed to result in fewer fur-tumbleweeds around your home!
Learn more about our de-shed bath→
How do you handle matting?
Light matting may be brushed out when it can be done safely and your pet tolerates it, but it is time-consuming and will incur additional fees. Matting is assessed at the start of the appointment. Severe matting often requires a shorter haircut to prevent pain or skin injury. Additional time and/or fees may apply.
Will my dog be crated at any point?
No, that's a perk of visiting Furology! We are a cage-free salon. Dogs are groomed straight through and are never placed in crates or kennels.
Can I request a specific haircut or style?
Absolutely! We’re happy to discuss your preferred length or style at check-in. To ensure we have enough time for your desired look, please select the appropriate service when booking online. If you need help choosing the right service for your pup, feel free to contact us or click here. Please keep in mind that coat condition, matting, and your dog’s comfort will always guide what is safely achievable.
Do you groom large dogs?
We groom dogs of many sizes. Grooming time and pricing for larger dogs varies based on coat type, condition, and the time needed to complete the service safely and calmly. At this time, we are unable to accept reactive dogs over 25 lbs.
What if my dog doesn’t tolerate grooming?
Your dog’s safety always comes first. If a pet becomes too stressed or unsafe, we may adjust the service or stop early. We’ll always communicate with you and work together on the best plan for your dog.
cat grooming faq
Do you groom cats?
Yes. We offer professional cat grooming in a calm, one-on-one environment designed specifically to reduce stress.
Learn more about our cat bathing services→
Learn more about our cat haircutting services→
Is cat grooming done cage-free?
Cat grooming is completed completely cage-free when tolerated. If your cat needs a break, they may relax in their carrier. If our hand dryer isn’t tolerated, we may use a cat-safe dryer kennel that circulates room-temperature air. Cats are closely monitored at all times.
Does my cat need to arrive in a carrier?
Yes. For safety reasons, all cats must arrive in a secure carrier.
What grooming services do you offer for cats?
We offer bath services, haircuts, and maintenance grooming for cats. We also offer nail trims, brushouts, and sanitary shaves.
What if my cat has never been professionally groomed before?
Cats new to grooming often benefit from a slow, gentle approach. Some cats may require multiple visits to build comfort with the grooming process.
Learn about our kitty intro visit→
How do you handle matting on cats?
Matting is assessed at the start of the appointment. For a cat’s comfort and safety, heavily matted areas are typically shaved rather than brushed out, as brushing can be painful and stressful.
Do you sedate cats for grooming?
No, we do not use sedation. If a cat becomes too stressed or unsafe to continue, the service may be stopped and grooming in a veterinary setting may be recommended. We are happy to groom cats who have been prescribed calming medications by their veterinarian prior to their visit.
What happens if my cat becomes too stressed during grooming?
Your cat’s well-being always comes first. If stress levels rise beyond what is safe, the service may be modified or ended early and next steps will be discussed with you.
booking & payments faq
How do I book an appointment?
Appointments are booked online through our website, where our schedule is always up to date. If you have questions or need assistance, you’re welcome to text us at 984-833-6118 — texting is typically the fastest way to reach us.
Do you require a card on file?
Yes. A card on file is required to reserve appointments and helps us uphold our cancellation and no-show policies as a small, one-on-one grooming salon.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes. A 50% deposit is required for all services booked online. The remaining balance is due at pickup. Deposits are refundable in accordance with our cancellation policy→
Can I book recurring grooms?
Yes! Many clients choose a recurring schedule to maintain healthy coat care, secure their preferred day and time year-round, and access Loyalty and Fresh Club perks.
How do I get on a recurring schedule?
Easy! We can set that up for you if you let us know which days and times work best for you.
Recurring appointments include:
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A bow or bandana and a photo
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Guaranteed price lock for the current year
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Preferred booking for holiday and prime-time grooming appointments
No deposits are required for pets on a recurring schedule.
How do I pay for my service?
We accept Square electronic payments, can charge the card on file, or accept cash at pickup. Personal checks are not accepted.
what to expect faq
What time should I arrive for my appointment?
Please arrive right at your scheduled appointment time. Our appointments are carefully spaced to support the flow of our day and ensure each pet receives calm, one-on-one care.
How will I know when my pet is ready for pickup?
We will send a pickup confirmation text approximately 20 minutes before your pet is ready to be picked up.
Is pickup required right away?
Yes, prompt pickups are greatly appreciated. We do not use crates and groom pets one-on-one, so late pickups can interrupt the next pet’s service. A 10-minute grace period is provided after the estimated pickup time; after that, a late pickup fee may apply.
Where can I park?
We’re located in a small cul-de-sac with limited parking. You’re welcome to park in our driveway if space is available or block the end of it. Please be mindful of our neighbors’ driveways.
What do I need to do before my appointment?
First-time guests are required to submit our policy forms prior to their appointment.
Inclement Weather & Scheduling
What happens if there’s bad weather on the day of my appointment?
For safety reasons, we are unable to operate during thunderstorms, and we may delay opening or close in the event of snow.
In the event of inclement weather, Furology Fresh Club members may reschedule their appointment with no cancellation fees. Any weather-related delays or closures will be communicated via text or email.
loyalty & fresh club faq
What’s the difference between Furology Fam and the Furology Fresh Club?
Furology Fam is designed for clients who maintain a consistent grooming schedule every 6 weeks or less. The Furology Fresh Club is an optional monthly membership that includes added perks and flexibility for pet parents who want extra benefits.
What qualifies for the Furology Fam?
Furology Fam is for clients who maintain a recurring grooming schedule every 6 weeks or less. This consistent schedule allows us to provide optimal care, reserved booking access, and loyalty benefits.
If appointments extend beyond 6 weeks, Furology Fam benefits no longer apply and services may be scheduled or priced differently.
Is there a fee to join Furology Fam?
No. Furology Fam is included for clients who maintain a qualifying recurring schedule.
What is the Furology Fresh Club?
The Furology Fresh Club is a monthly membership available for $9.99 per dog, offering exclusive perks designed to enhance your pet’s grooming experience.
What perks are included with Fresh Club membership?
Fresh Club members receive:
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A bow or bandana plus a cute photo
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Toothbrushing during service
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Paw & Nose moisturizing treatment
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A lick mat with a treat during grooming
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A sweet treat to take home
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A hot towel treatment
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A guaranteed price lock for one year
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Weather-flex appointments (no cancellation fees for bad weather)
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Furology Fresh Club collar ID customized for your pet
Does Fresh Club replace grooming service costs?
No. Fresh Club is a monthly membership and does not replace standard grooming service pricing.
Is Fresh Club required to book an appointment?
No. Fresh Club membership is optional.
How is Fresh Club billed?
Fresh Club memberships are billed monthly at $9.99 per dog.
What is Fresh Club VIP?
Fresh Club VIP is our unlimited bath membership designed for pets who benefit from consistent skin, coat, and hygiene care. Members enjoy unlimited baths, priority perks, and exclusive discounts while staying on a regular grooming schedule.
What is included in a VIP bath service?
Each bath includes:
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Shampoo & conditioner
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Facial cleanse
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Nail buffing
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Brush-out
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Blow-out
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Light fragrance finish (optional)
How does fresh club VIP billing work?
Fresh Club VIP is billed monthly and renews automatically until you request cancellation.
How do I cancel my Fresh Club VIP membership?
Memberships may be cancelled at any time with 30 days’ notice via email prior to your next billing cycle.
Example:
If you request cancellation on April 25, your May payment will still process, and your membership will end on May 31.
Are there cancellation or no-show fees for VIP members?
Yes. To keep unlimited baths fair and accessible for all members:
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Appointments cancelled within 24 hours or no-shows will incur a $15 fee per dog
This policy helps us reserve time fairly and maintain availability for all members.
What are the perks of being a Fresh Club VIP member?
In addition to a consistently clean, comfortable pet, VIP members enjoy:
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Unlimited bath visits
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10% off all luxe haircut services
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10% off all luxe bath services
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10% off all care enhancements
How much does Fresh Club VIP cost?
Unlimited bath pricing varies and is based on your pup’s preferred coat length, size, and breed.
This ensures pricing stays fair, predictable, and reflective of the care your pet needs. Pricing will be discussed and confirmed at enrollment, and recurring haircut appointments (if needed) will be scheduled accordingly.
Is de-shedding included in Fresh Club VIP?
Fresh Club VIP includes routine bathing and coat maintenance. Some dogs experience seasonal shedding or coat blowouts that require occasional de-shedding treatments for proper coat health and comfort.
De-shedding services are not included in the membership but may be added as needed. VIP members receive 10% off all Luxe Bath and Luxe Haircut services, including de-shedding!
still have questions?
We’re always happy to help. If you’re ready to book, you can schedule online anytime. If you’re unsure which service is right for your pet, feel free to reach out — texting is the fastest way to connect with us.