Gentle Dog Grooming for Anxious and Sensitive Dogs
A patient, low-stress grooming experience designed for dogs with anxiety, fear, or sensitivity. At Super Pet in East Falmouth, MA, we take as long as your dog needs.
Book a Gentle Grooming SessionWhat's Included in Gentle Grooming
Everything in a standard full groom - plus extended time, a calming approach, and an individualized process for your dog.
Gentle Grooming Session
A full groom at your dog's own pace, with calming techniques built into every step.
- Everything included in a standard full groom
- Extended calming time before and throughout
- Positive reinforcement at each stage
- No forced restraint - we pause and reassure
- Unhurried pace adapted to your dog's comfort
- Individualized approach based on your dog's stress signals
- Hand-dried - no cage drying ever
Monthly Grooming Plan
Consistent monthly appointments help anxious dogs build positive associations with the grooming environment. Many dogs become significantly calmer after 3 to 6 visits.
- Same groomer each visit builds trust
- Familiar environment reduces anxiety
- Progressive desensitization naturally
- We track your dog's progress
What to Tell Us When Booking
The more we know before your dog arrives, the better we can prepare a calm, appropriate experience.
- Your dog's anxiety triggers
- Past grooming experiences (good or bad)
- Any biting or snapping history
- What helps calm your dog at home
- Preferred handling techniques
How Gentle Grooming Works
A thoughtful, step-by-step process designed to keep your anxious dog calm and comfortable.
Book and Share Notes
Mention your dog's anxiety level and specific triggers in the notes field when booking. This helps us prepare before you arrive.
Calm Introduction
We meet your dog on their terms, assess their stress signals, and build a bit of trust before any grooming starts.
Gentle Session
We pause, reassure, and adapt throughout the session. No rush, no force. We celebrate small wins with your dog.
Pickup - Calm and Clean
Your dog leaves clean and calm. We share feedback on how they did so you can build on it next visit.
Quick Facts About Gentle Grooming
What you need to know before booking a gentle grooming session at Super Pet in East Falmouth, MA.
Starting Price: From $85. Duration and complexity may affect the final price.
Who It's For: Anxious, fearful, sensitive, or previously traumatized dogs of all breeds.
No Cage Drying: Hand-dried only. This is especially important for anxious dogs.
Vaccinations Required: Rabies, DHPP, and Bordetella must be current.
Deposit: A $25 deposit is required to confirm your online booking.
Location: 122 Teaticket Hwy, East Falmouth, MA 02536. Open Tue-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-1pm.
Gentle Grooming FAQs
Answers to common questions about gentle and anxiety-friendly grooming at Super Pet.
What is gentle grooming?
Gentle grooming is a specialized, low-stress approach designed for dogs that experience anxiety, fear, or sensitivity during the grooming process. At Super Pet, it means using positive reinforcement, calming techniques, an unhurried pace, and never forcing your dog into positions or through steps they resist. We take as long as your dog needs - no exceptions.
Is gentle grooming more expensive than a regular groom?
Gentle grooming starts at $85 compared to $75 for a standard full groom. The difference reflects the additional time and care required. Some sessions may take longer than a standard appointment, and the final price may reflect that. We always discuss pricing clearly before starting.
My dog has bitten groomers before - can you help?
We understand that some dogs have had difficult or traumatic past grooming experiences. Please mention any biting history when booking so we can prepare appropriately. We assess each dog individually and will always prioritize safety for your dog and our team. In some cases, we may recommend a gradual introduction over multiple shorter visits before a full groom.
How do you calm an anxious dog during grooming?
We use a range of techniques: slow, deliberate movements; calm, reassuring voices; frequent pauses and breaks; positive reinforcement with treats and praise; minimal restraint; and continuous reading of your dog's body language. We never rush, and we adapt our approach in real time based on how your dog is responding.
How many visits before my dog gets comfortable?
Every dog is different. Some become noticeably calmer after just two or three visits. Others need more time. What helps most is consistency - monthly visits to the same groomer in the same environment allow your dog to build positive associations gradually. We recommend our monthly grooming plan for anxious dogs because it creates that consistent rhythm.