Classy Canines

I hate having to write negative reviews for local businesses, but I feel it wouldn’t be right to not share my experience here with others looking for grooming services in the AA area.
I went to visit Classy Canines before making my appointment with my pup because I wanted to check out the location and meet the groomer. It is located in the back of a vets office and Lori, the head groomer, was friendly and seemed knowledgable. I decided to book my first appointment for my large breed dog.
When my appointment day came I brought my dog in and we had an ‘intake interview’ she asked me if my dog had sensitive skin, I said no. We have had our dog professionally groomed every 4 – 6 weeks since we got her and she has never shown any signs of skin sensitivity. I knew my dog was matted (definitely not the worst its ever been but a little more than normal) and decided to cut her short because of this.
When I came in to pick up my dog I noticed that her skin was red on her legs and Lori said she had put some ointment on it and then brushed it off as no big deal. I asked a couple prodding questions to try and get a better understanding, but she said to just discourage my dog from licking. I also noticed that there were multiple toe-​nails that were cut too short and had bled. One nail cut too short is understandable, but multiple nails (her nails are not black), is hard to understand.
By the time I got home and had a chance to run my hands over my dog I noticed there were red marks and blade burns all over her (a total of 7 different areas). I took photos so I could send to Lori with my concerns. By the next day my husband and I were increasingly worried and took our dog to the vet, where we learned that our pup had developed a staff infection from the groomer. She had to wear an e-​collar and take antibiotics. It was super disappointing that it came down to this. The vet said there should be no explanation or excuse from a professional groomer to cause so many burns and cuts and she had never seen such a poor job.
When I explained all of this to Lori in an email (I tried to get her on the phone but she never returned my call) she emailed back taking very little responsibility and said the spots and burns were due to her being heavily matted and having sensitive skin. After this I just asked for a refund — no use in arguing. The only reason I’m giving the second star is because I appreciate that Lori is a wise enough business woman to give a refund when one is due.
I hope this is a one-​off experience and isn’t a common issue with them. I’m sure they have many happy customers. Nevertheless, i will not be coming back or recommending them to other people.

We have been taking our dog to Lori since we adopted him several years ago. At that time, he was a large, double-​coated, disheveled, middle-​aged stray with fear issues. Thanks to her patience, he’s still large and fuzzy, but he is much better about grooming than he used to be. Even though he can be «special needs» at times, Lori is always patient and affectionate with him — and he comes home looking so handsome!
We have seen Lori during her time at the Groom Room and at Breed Above, and now see her at the Parkway Animal Clinic. No matter the location, she still does superlative work!

I have taken my pup to Lori since he was brand new. I trust her completely, and I love Bailey’s smell when he comes home. It’s cage free, so it is a good way to socialize your pup with other 4-​legged friends.
P. S. Classy Canines MOVED down the road and expanded. Now offering overnight suites and day care. Love Lori!