Frequently asked questions
Can't find your answer? Call 813-641-DOGS, a real person picks up.
Where is Southshore Pet Grooming located?
201 W Shell Point Rd, Ruskin, FL 33570, just off US-41 on the South Shore, minutes from Apollo Beach, Sun City Center, Wimauma and Gibsonton.
What are your hours?
Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 am to 3:30 pm. We're closed Sunday and Monday.
How do I book an appointment?
Book online anytime through our MoeGo booking page, or call (813) 641-3647, that's 813-641-DOGS (a landline, so calls only, no texts). Walk-ins are welcome for nail trims. We're also happy to book your next appointments in advance so your pet stays on schedule.
How often should my dog be groomed?
We recommend all dogs be groomed regularly on a 4 to 6 week basis. For curly coats, long styles, and double or triple coated breeds we strongly recommend a 4 week schedule. We're happy to book your appointments in advance so your pet always stays on schedule.
What payment types do you accept?
Just about anything. We run on Square, so we accept cash, all major credit and debit cards, and contactless payments like Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Do you groom cats?
Yes, we're a clean, well-lit facility for dogs AND cats. Cat nail trims are on the menu; call us about your kitty's other needs.
How much does dog grooming cost?
Every pet is quoted personally, pricing depends on size, breed, coat length, condition and temperament, and we always confirm your quote before we begin. No surprises, no hidden fees. Call 813-641-DOGS for a personal consultation, or ask at drop-off.
What's included in a full-service groom?
Luxury bath with skin & coat conditioner, ear cleaning, gland expression, nail trim, blow out and a full haircut. Spaw experiences like the Southshore Signature Spaw, foot spa and PlaqClnz teeth cleaning are available as enhancements.
Are you really an AKC Certified Safe Salon?
Yes! The AKC Safe Salon program recognizes grooming salons that meet the American Kennel Club's safety, health and best-practice standards, and we're proud to be certified. Our staff is also certified in pet CPR, rescue breathing and first aid.
What products do you use?
Natural, organic, non-toxic shampoos and conditioners, chosen because Florida sun and sensitive skin don't mix with harsh chemicals.
My dog is nervous at the groomer. Can you help?
Gentle handling is kind of our thing. We groom at your dog's pace, never force what causes stress, and plenty of our best reviews come from owners of dogs who 'don't usually like people.'
When should a puppy have its first groom?
We recommend starting no later than 10 weeks old (with vet approval). Early positive visits make grooming a treat instead of a battle, see our Puppy's First Groom page.
Can you groom senior, arthritic or post-surgery pets?
Yes, gently and with care. We adapt handling, use extra breaks and supportive positioning, keep sessions calm and unhurried, and follow any guidance from your veterinarian. Warm water, soft handling and short nails do a lot for older joints. Tell us about your pet's needs when you book and we will schedule a quieter time slot.
Do you take walk-ins?
Yes, walk-in nail trims are welcome Tuesday–Saturday, 9am–3:30pm. Full grooms are by appointment so every dog gets unhurried attention.
Is there a charge for matted coats?
Dematting is included up to 15 minutes; beyond that a dematting charge applies. If a coat is too matted to brush out safely we'll recommend a comfortable shave-down, always what's kindest for the dog.
Do you shave double-coated dogs like huskies and shepherds?
We recommend against it, and we'll explain why: a double coat is your dog's insulation and sun protection, and shaving it often ruins the coat and makes dogs hotter, not cooler. A professional bath, blow out and deshed removes the dead undercoat and keeps them genuinely cooler. It's what we recommend every time.
How long does a grooming appointment take?
It depends on your dog's size, coat and temperament, and we groom at your dog's pace rather than a stopwatch's. We'll give you a realistic time estimate at drop-off and can call when your pup is ready.
What is a teddy bear cut?
A rounded, plush style, most popular on doodles, poodles and small fluffy breeds: a soft rounded face, trimmed body at a cuddly length and tidy round feet. Bring a photo of the look you love and we'll tailor it to your dog's coat.
What is a Certified Canine Esthetician?
A credential in the science of canine skin and coat: skin conditions, coat types, product chemistry and bathing protocols. It's the training behind our Skin Renewal Medi-Spaw and the custom skin treatments we build for itchy, dry or damaged coats. Groomers style the coat; an esthetician also cares for the skin underneath.
Do you groom large and giant breeds?
Yes, every size is welcome. Shepherds, Bernese, retrievers, Great Danes and every big lovable mix get the same unhurried care, with the equipment and experienced hands that large coats deserve.
Do you offer teeth cleaning?
Yes, PlaqClnz teeth cleaning is a gentle, no-anesthesia treatment done during your dog's visit. It reduces plaque and freshens breath, and it complements (never replaces) your veterinarian's dental care.