What to Expect at Pets the Whole 9 Yard in Columbia

Full-Service Grooming and Pet Care in One Place

Pets the Whole 9 Yard is a full-service grooming facility in Columbia that handles bathing, haircuts, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and other grooming services for dogs and cats. The business operates as a single location where you can drop off your pet for a grooming appointment and pick them up the same day, usually within a few hours. They work with pets of different sizes and coat types, from short-haired breeds to dogs requiring hand-stripping or specialty cuts.

The facility is staffed by groomers who handle the day-to-day care and styling. Unlike some larger chains, this is a locally-owned operation where you work directly with the grooming team rather than through a corporate booking system. That means you can discuss your pet's specific needs—whether your dog has sensitive skin, matted fur, or behavioral concerns—with the people who will actually be grooming them.

Key Takeaways

• Pets the Whole 9 Yard offers bathing, haircuts, nail trimming, and ear cleaning for dogs and cats at a single Columbia location.
• You can call ahead to schedule an appointment and discuss your pet's grooming needs directly with the staff.
• Drop-off and same-day pickup is the standard model, with grooming typically completed within a few hours.
• The facility handles pets with different coat types and sizes, including dogs that need specialty cuts or hand-stripping.

Services Available and What They Cover

Standard grooming services at Pets the Whole 9 Yard include a full bath with shampoo and conditioner, blow-dry, and haircut or trim to your specifications. Nail trimming is usually included or available as an add-on, and ear cleaning is offered for pets prone to ear buildup. Many groomers also provide sanitary trims and de-shedding treatments if your dog sheds heavily.

Specialty services may include hand-stripping for terrier breeds, breed-specific cuts (like poodle or doodle styling), and de-matting for pets with tangled or matted coats. If your pet has skin sensitivities or allergies, you can bring your own shampoo or discuss hypoallergenic options when you book. The grooming team can also work with anxious or senior pets, though it's important to mention behavioral concerns when you call so they can plan accordingly.

How to Schedule and What to Bring

Call Pets the Whole 9 Yard directly to schedule an appointment. Have your pet's name, breed, age, and any grooming history ready when you call—this helps the groomer understand what to expect and whether your pet has had previous grooming or is coming in for the first time. Let them know if your pet has any health issues, skin conditions, or behavioral quirks that might affect the grooming process.

When you drop off your pet, bring a collar or leash so the groomer can safely handle them. If your pet takes medication or has specific dietary needs, mention this at drop-off even if you discussed it on the phone. Most groomers ask you to stay nearby or provide a phone number where you can be reached in case questions come up during grooming. Ask about pickup time when you drop off—most appointments take two to four hours depending on coat type and services requested.

Pricing and Payment

Grooming prices vary based on your pet's size, coat condition, and the services you choose. A basic bath and haircut for a small dog costs less than the same service for a large breed or a dog with a heavily matted coat. Specialty services like hand-stripping or de-matting typically cost more than standard grooming. Call ahead to ask about pricing for your specific pet so you know what to expect before your appointment.

Ask whether Pets the Whole 9 Yard accepts cash, card, or both when you book. Some local groomers offer package deals or discounts for regular customers, so it's worth asking if you plan to bring your pet in regularly. Payment is usually due at pickup, though policies vary by location.

What to Know Before Your First Visit

If your pet has never been groomed professionally, let the staff know when you call. First-time grooming can be stressful for anxious pets, and groomers appreciate knowing this upfront so they can work at a pace that keeps your pet calm. Bring any grooming history you have—previous cuts, products used, or reactions to grooming—so the team can replicate what worked or avoid what didn't.

Matted coats take longer to groom and may cost more because the groomer has to work carefully to avoid skin irritation. If your pet's coat is matted, mention this when you book so the groomer can schedule extra time. Some groomers can de-mat during a regular appointment, while others may recommend a separate de-matting session if the matting is severe.

Grooming Between Appointments

Ask the grooming team for advice on maintaining your pet's coat between visits. Regular brushing at home—especially for long-haired or curly-coated breeds—can prevent matting and reduce the time and cost of professional grooming. The groomer can recommend the right brush type for your pet's coat and show you how often to brush to keep your pet looking good between appointments.

If your pet gets dirty or muddy between grooming sessions, a quick rinse at home can help. For pets that shed heavily, regular brushing also reduces the amount of loose hair around your home and can extend the time between full grooming appointments.

Location and Hours

Pets the Whole 9 Yard is located in Columbia. Call ahead to confirm their current hours and whether they have any seasonal closures or holiday schedules that might affect your appointment. Some groomers operate by appointment only, so walk-ins may not be possible—booking in advance is the best way to secure a time that works for you.

If you're planning your first visit, allow extra time to discuss your pet's needs with the groomer before drop-off. This conversation helps the team understand what you want and gives you a chance to ask questions about their process and experience with your pet's breed or coat type.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a grooming appointment usually take?

Most appointments take two to four hours, depending on your pet's size, coat condition, and the services you choose. A small dog with a simple haircut may be done in two hours, while a large dog with a matted coat or specialty cut could take longer. Ask for an estimated time when you book so you know when to plan your pickup.

Can I stay while my pet is being groomed?

Most groomers ask owners to drop off their pets and return at pickup time. Having the owner present can make some pets anxious or distracted, which slows down the grooming process. If you have concerns about your pet's behavior or health, discuss them with the groomer before drop-off rather than staying to watch.

What if my pet has never been groomed before?

Tell the grooming team when you book. First-time grooming can be stressful, and groomers can work at a slower pace or use calming techniques to help your pet adjust. A shorter first appointment focused on getting your pet comfortable with the process is sometimes better than a full grooming right away.

Do I need to bathe my pet before bringing them in?

No—the groomer will bathe your pet as part of the service. Bringing your pet clean is not necessary and may actually make the groomer's job harder if the coat is wet or tangled. Just make sure your pet is free of obvious dirt or debris before drop-off.

What should I do if my pet has skin allergies or sensitivities?

Mention this when you book and again at drop-off. You can bring your own hypoallergenic shampoo for the groomer to use, or ask what products they have available. The groomer may also recommend skipping certain services like de-shedding treatments if your pet's skin is sensitive.