Frequently Asked Questions

The basics

How does mobile grooming work?

Wonderfully, if we say so ourselves. Our fully-equipped mobile salon van pulls up at your doorstep, and your pup gets a calm, private spa experience without ever leaving home. No nervous car rides, no waiting rooms, no other dogs barking – just your pooch, our groomer, and a rather peaceful hour or two of pampering. You’re welcome to pop out and check in any time; we’re right outside.

Does Lola’s service my area?

We’re live across North West London – Primrose Hill, Hampstead, Belsize Park, St John’s Wood, Maida Vale, Paddington, Notting Hill, Swiss Cottage, Queen’s Park, Kentish Town, Kilburn and Camden. Our ambition is to bring Lola’s to every dog in London, so if you’re just outside our patch, do drop us a line at woof@lolaspetsalon.com or message us on WhatsApp on 07901360283, and we’ll let you know when our van is ready to roll your way.

Do you need to plug into my house for water or power?

Not at all. Our vans are fully self-sufficient – designed from the ground up for grooming, with everything we need on board. No hoses through your window, no extension leads across the hallway. You sit back, your pup gets pampered, and life carries on as normal.

How long does a typical groom take?

Anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on your dog’s breed, size, and coat condition. Before the first session, we always have a quick consultation so we can give you a proper estimate. We never rush – your pup’s comfort comes first, and some sessions simply take longer to do beautifully.

The good news: door-to-door mobile grooming tends to be far less stressful than traditional salons, and is often completed in a fraction of the time it would take with a drop-off appointment.

What’s included in a groom?

Every appointment includes a soothing bath with our gentle products, a fluffy blow dry, ear cleaning, nail trim, and a thorough brush-out. Haircuts and breed-specific styling are included in our full grooming services. Every appointment is tailored to your dog’s coat, breed, and temperament.

Booking, payment, and policies

How do I book?

Three easy ways: book directly through our website here, message us on WhatsApp on 07901360283, or drop an email to woof@lolaspetsalon.com. We’ll find a time that suits and confirm everything in writing.

How do I pay?

We’ll invoice you after the appointment, card or bank transfer, payable on the day of the appointment.

Do you offer one-off appointments, or is it subscription only?

Both, beautifully. Many of our clients book regular slots (every 4–8 weeks, depending on coat) and others come to us for one-offs – we’re equally happy with either.

What’s your cancellation policy?

Life happens – we get it. Please give us at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to reschedule, so we can offer the slot to another pup. Appointments cancelled or rescheduled within 24 hours may incur an additional fee.

What other policies and fees may apply?

A few friendly reminders to keep our doorstep service running smoothly:

  • Matted or compacted coats – Regular grooming and at-home care are essential for your dog’s health. Severely matted coats take more time and may incur an additional fee.
  • Timely handover and pick-up – When we let you know we’re ready, please pop out promptly. There’s a 15-minute grace period on either side.
  • Parking – Please ensure a suitable parking space outside your home or nearby. We can’t park illegally (no double yellows, sadly), and if a permit is required, please provide one for the duration of the service.
  • Service refusal – Safety comes first. Pups that don’t meet our safety criteria may be refused service, which could result in a fee of up to 100% of the estimated appointment total.

For the full details, see our Terms & Conditions.

About your pup

Do you groom all breeds and sizes?

What about double-coated breeds?

Huskies, Malamutes, German Shepherds, and similar breeds are very welcome. We never shave double coats – it damages them. Instead, we de-shed thoroughly to keep your pup cool, comfortable, and looking magnificent.

Can you groom in different styles?

Absolutely. At Lola’s, nothing’s impossible. Our groomers listen, adapt, and are happy to bring any styling request to life – whether that’s a particular breed standard, a teddy-bear trim, or something rather more inventive.

My dog is nervous. Can you still groom them?

Absolutely. The mobile setup itself is a huge help for anxious dogs – no kennels, no unknown dogs, just a calm one-on-one experience. We work at your dog’s pace and have plenty of experience with shy, senior, and first-time pups. Tell us about your dog when you book, and we’ll plan accordingly.

What if my puppy hasn’t been groomed before?

Wonderful – early grooming is one of the kindest things you can do for a puppy. We offer gentle introduction sessions for first-timers, focused on getting them comfortable with the experience rather than completing a full groom. Done well, the first appointment shapes how your pup feels about grooming for life.

Will you service my elderly or disabled dog?

In most cases, yes – and we’ll tailor the experience accordingly. A few important exceptions to be aware of:

Our groomers work one-on-one in the van without assistants. Some elderly dogs struggle to stand unaided for extended periods, and for those pups, we recommend a groomer who has an assistant or a veterinarian offering sedated grooming. The same goes for any dog with a history of seizures.

Above all, your dog’s well-being comes first. We won’t begin a service we’re not confident we can safely complete, and if a session ever becomes too stressful mid-groom, we’ll stop immediately.

What if my dog’s coat is severely matted?

We may decline de-matting in cases where it would cause unnecessary pain or distress. When that happens, we’ll always recommend the kindest course of action and never proceed without talking it through with you first.

Do you ask for vaccination records?

Yes. We need up-to-date vaccination records before the first appointment – it keeps every pup who visits us safe.

Products and process

Do you use organic products?

We do – 100% organic. Gentle on coats, gentle on skin, gentle on noses.

Can you use my own products?

Of course. If your dog has a specific skin condition or your vet has prescribed something particular, we’re happy to use the products you provide.

My dog has sensitive skin – do you have a shampoo for that?

Yes. Every van carries a small library of speciality products, including a soothing oatmeal shampoo for sensitive skin, a de-shed conditioner, and a blueberry face wash – all included in every service. Just have a chat with our groomer about what suits your pup best.

On the day

Anything I should do before the appointment?

A few small things make all the difference:

  • A short walk beforehand helps your pup arrive relaxed (and any urgent business is sorted before the spa session).
  • Skip the meal right before – a settled stomach is a happy stomach.
  • Sort out parking if needed (see our policies above).
  • Have vaccination records handy, especially for first appointments.

What if I’m not happy with the groom?

Tell us, straight away. We’ll always make it right. Your pup looking and feeling fabulous is the whole point.