Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment for a self-service bath and/or nail trim?

YES

Does my dog need to be fully vaccinated?

YES, your dog's vaccinations need to be current.  King County requires all dogs to have current rabies vaccinations upon entering pet care facilities.  We will ask you to sign our check-in sheet verifying your dog's vaccines are current.

How do I book multiple dogs?

One Hour/Two Dogs:  Great for a quick bath with two dogs if you work efficiently.  On our website booking page, book "Two Self-Service Baths (Same Tub - 1 Hour Only)" 

Two Hours:  If you'd like more time, you should book two separate appointments, one hour apart (for example one dog wash at 10 am, and the next dog wash at 11 am).  You will be able to remain in the same station for the entire two hours.  If you are not sure about this process, please give us a call and we can help.

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Two Dogs/Two Tubs:  If you'd like each dog in their own tub at the same time, please select this option on our booking page.  Keep in mind this requires two people to help, and tubs are not guaranteed to be side-by-side depending on the flow of traffic that day.

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What if I need longer than one hour?  Can I groom my dog at your facility?

Yes!  We now offer "One Dog, One Tub" for two hours at a discounted price of $42.  To schedule this, please contact us at 206-789-5311.

You are welcome to bring your own grooming tools from home and groom your dog in our bathing station - plus you get to leave the mess behind!  Please note, we do not loan out any scissors or clippers.  Please handle all your grooming tools responsibly.  Rub-a-Dub Dog is not responsible for any injuries to you your pet while using your personal grooming equipment.

Will someone show me how to wash my dog?

We are here to help in any way we can.  On your first visit we will go through the dog-washing process and answer any questions you may have.  You will be surprised how easy it is.

Can I add a nail trim to my self-wash appointment?

Yes!  Nail trims can be added onto your self-wash appointment.  We prefer that you book them ahead of time so we can allow extra time.  Please let us know if your dog has any special needs or requests such as using a hammock, needing a lick mat, being anxious or shy, or preferring the back room.  We can prepare to make the experience as smooth as possible.

What is anal gland expression and should I be having my dog's anal glands expressed?

Anal glands are small scent sacs located on either side of a dog's anus.  They naturally secrete a fluid that dogs use to mark territory and communicate with other dogs.  Sometimes, these glands can become impacted, full, or uncomfortable.  This may cause the dog to scoot, lick, or show signs of discomfort.

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Why it might be done?  Expressing the glands can help relieve discomfort if they are full or impacted.  Some dogs need this regulary, some occasionally, and some dogs rarely or never need it.

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We have limited staff trained to perform external expressions only.  This is usually sufficient for routine care or mild cases.

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When to see a vet:  If your dog's glands are seriously impacted, infected, or your dog has a history of gland injuries, your veterinarian should perform an internal expression, as this is safer and more effective.

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Call to book this service due to limited availability.

I just got a new puppy.  Where do I start?

Contratulations!  Puppies 4 months and older with up-to-date vaccinations (including rabies) are welcome at Rub-a-Dub Dog.  Start with short, positive visits so your puppy builds confidence in the bath.  Our staff is happy to guide you through the process and answer puppy care questions.

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We also offer one-on-one workshops where you can learn personalized tips and tricks for your dog's specific coat type and behaviors.  Please call us to schedule this service.

I think my dog might have fleas.  What should I do?

We ask that all dogs that enter our facility be on a flea and tick preventative care program prescribed by your veterinarian.  This helps keep our space safe and healthy for everyone.  

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Before visiting:  Please treat your dog if you suspect fleas.

Preventative care:  We offer preventative flea shampoo in our specialty shampoo selection which can be provided by request. 

Mild cases:  A flea shampoo option with a pesticide is available to purchase if you find a flea(s) during your self-bath.  This shampoo is not recommended for puppies, elderly dogs, and dogs with underlying conditions so we recommend you read the instructions thoroughy before using.

If fleas are found during your visit:  You will be allowed to finish your bath, towel dry, and then promptly exit to limit the chance of spreading fleas within the building.  Blow drying is not permitted as this can spread fleas and flea eggs throughout the facility.

What happens if I find a tick(s) on my dog?

Ticks should be removed promptly with proper tools.  If you find a tick during your visit, let us know and we'll guide you on safe removal, but we do not perform extractions ourselves.  For multiple ticks or embedded ones, we recommend seeing your veterinarian.

What are your policies around aggressive or dog-reactive dogs?

Safety comes first.  Upon entering and exiting the facility, please keep a muzzle on your dog to avoid any incidents.  That said, we welcome reactive dogs and can often make accommodations such as scheduling during quieter times or using our more private stations.  Aggressive behavior that poses a danger to staff may require referral to a professionial groomer or trainer.  You can let us know in advance by giving us a call before your visit.  This helps us prepare to make the experience as stress free as possible.

My dog is shy.  How does your team handle that?

We take a gentle, patient approach with shy dogs.  Our staff uses positive reinforcement, goes at the dog's pace, and creates as calm an environment as possible.  We're happy to discuss strategies before your visit to make sure your dog feels safe and supported.

What if my dog is very noisy or barks constantly?

Some dogs are naturally vocal or may bark due to excitement, stress, or anxiety.  At Rub-a-Dub Dog our goal is to maintain a calm and safe environment for all dogs.  Constant barking can be stressful for other guests.  

*  If a dog is excessively noisy, it may disrupt other clients or cause stress to nearby dogs.

*  For full-service baths, our staff will use calm, patient handling and positive reinforment to help soothe your dog.

*  In some cases, we may offer a quieter appointment time, suggest private sessions, or cut the bath short if the dog's stress continues to impact the environment.

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Please let us know about your dog's tendencies when booking so we can make accommodations and provide the best experience for everyone.

Do I need to bring anything?

Simply bring your dog on a leash (this is required).  We provide everything you need to wash your dog including (but not limited to) a wide variety of shampoos and rinses, as many towels as you need, and treats to help make the process a positive experience for your dog.  See our self-service dog wash page for more details.

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If your dog is known to be reactive or aggressive, please use a muzzle any time the dog is not restrained in the tub or drying station.

Is parking available?

Besides street parking, there are THREE dedicated parking spaces at the rear of the building (east of the building).