Frequently Asked Questions

Krista Lawson | Professional Pet Stylist Serving Blue Ridge, GA and Nearby Communities

I want you to feel as comfortable as your dog does.

Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions I get from pet parents like you.

Where are you located?

Groomed by Krista is located in a cozy home-based studio in Morganton, GA, just 15 minutes from downtown Blue Ridge. The grooming studio is in a separate outbuilding on the property, professionally equipped, and designed for comfort and calm. Exact address is provided upon booking to maintain the privacy of my home.

Do you take walk-ins?

Nope—sorry! All services, including meet and greets, are by appointment only. This maintains the privacy of my home and allows me to give each dog (or family) my full attention, without rushing or overlap.

What kinds of dogs do you groom?

I love to work with dogs of all shapes, sizes, and coat types—though I do reserve the right to decline appointments for dogs with high-risk health issues or a history of aggression that makes grooming unsafe.

My insurance also requires me to decline breeds that pose an increased safety risk. If you’re unsure whether your pup is a good fit, feel free to reach out.

How do you handle fleas and ticks?

Groomed by Krista is a flea- and tick-free facility—let’s keep it that way! If your dog arrives with fleas, a mandatory flea bath will be given and a $10 fee will be added to cover special handling and cleanup.

If your pup has a known tick issue, please consult your vet for treatment before booking. I’ll remove the occasional stray tick if I come across one during grooming, but if I find signs of a tick infestation, you’ll be called for immediate pickup and charged for the services completed up to that point.

What if my dog is a puppy, senior, nervous about grooming, or has anxiety?

That’s my specialty! I create a quiet, one-on-one grooming experience designed to help dogs with special needs feel safe and secure. No cages, no rushing, no hectic atmosphere, and no conveyor-belt grooming.

How long does grooming take?

Most small dogs are finished in under two hours. Larger dogs or those with long coats can take up to 3-4 hours. I’ll give you an estimate at check-in and call or text you 15 minutes before your pup is ready.


Can I stay during the grooming appointment?

For safety and focus, I do not allow owners to stay during the appointment. Most dogs settle in more quickly once their human has left. You’re welcome to run errands, grab lunch, or do some sightseeing—you’ll get a call or text 15 minutes before your dog is ready.

What if my dog has mats or tangles?

Minor tangles? No problem. Severe matting will be evaluated at check-in, and additional fees may apply. In some cases, a fresh start may be the kindest option—and I’ll always talk it through with you first.

Do you offer mobile or house-call grooming?

At this time, I do not offer mobile or house call grooming. All services take place in my home-based studio in Morganton, where I’ve created a calm, cozy, and professionally equipped grooming space.


What forms of payment do you accept?

I accept cash, Venmo, and all major credit cards through PayPal—though cash is always preferred. Payment is due at the time of pick-up. Gratuity is never expected, but always appreciated if you feel I’ve earned it!

What is your drop off policy?

Please potty your dog before arriving. All dogs must be on a secure leash or in a carrier at drop off—no exceptions!
Please arrive as close to your scheduled appointment time as possible. Dogs dropped off more than 15 minutes early or 15 minutes late will incur a $10 handling fee. If you’re more than 30 minutes late, your appointment may need to be rescheduled. I groom one dog (or one family) at a time, so staying on schedule helps me provide the calm, personalized care my pet parents expect.

What is your pick up policy?

I’ll call or text 15 minutes before your dog is ready. Your dog is welcome to hang out with me for a while—as long as we’ve discussed it in advance.

Dogs not picked up by the agreed-upon time will incur a $25 late pickup fee. After grooming, your dog may hang out in a cozy playpen for safety. They’ll have potty breaks, water, a snack, and lots of TLC while they wait.


What’s your cancellation and no show policy?

I kindly request 24 hours’ notice for all cancellations. I understand that life happens—so the first no-call/no-show or last-minute cancellation is forgiven, no questions asked.

However, repeated no-shows or late cancellations will incur a $25 fee that must be paid before booking your next appointment. My schedule is limited and I have a waiting list, so short-notice cancellations mean another dog misses out on care.

How often should my dog be groomed?

It depends on their coat type, lifestyle, and how fancy you want them to look between appointments! Most dogs do best with grooming every 4 to 8 weeks to stay clean, comfortable, and mat-free. Regular grooming also helps keep skin healthy, nails at a comfortable length, and shedding under control.

Prebook on a 4–8 week schedule and you’ll get an automatic 10% discount—because consistency is good for your pup and your groomer. Not sure what’s right for your dog? I’m happy to recommend a schedule that fits their needs (and yours).