Welcome to the spa!
We are proud to be a queer- and woman-owned family business, where we emphasize a safe and inclusive space for all. Here are a few other important things to know about us.
Compassion comes first.
Pawsitivity Pet Spa is Asheville's only holistic, one-on-one grooming salon. Our mission is to create a strong relationship built on trust by providing a truly comfortable experience for every canine client. We provide one-on-one, straight-through grooming services in a calm environment where pets have the ability to relax and trust their stylist.
The Pawsitive Grooming Experience
What is it and why is it so different from the typical grooming salon experience?
We pay attention to each individual dog’s needs in 3 important areas: compassionate care, boundaries, and senses.
Compassionate Care
We understand that some dogs have a much higher anxiety baseline than other dogs and that factors like breed, home life, history (such as being a rescue), and prior traumatizing grooming experiences – or lack of grooming experience – all factor into their baseline. While each dog is in our care, we monitor whether their anxiety level is changing. It is our standard procedure to contact the owner if a dog’s anxiety increases. We will provide professional recommendations on the next best steps for them to have a comfortable experience in the future.
Boundaries
We allow dogs to set boundaries, and we take seriously our commitment to listen to them. This means that if a dog is showing significant discomfort with a particular procedure, such as active resistance (jumping, wiggling free, whining excessively), or growling or snapping, we do not force them through the procedure. Instead, we work with them to desensitize them to the procedure. As a result, our standard grooming practice involves allowing them to set boundaries on what they are able to do in a particular session. For dogs who are used to grooming or who have a low anxiety baseline, a standard Essentials appointment within the set amount of time is a perfect fit. For puppies, seniors, and those with a higher anxiety baseline we will recommend the appropriate Spa Program.
Senses
Sight: We make sure someone is in the dog’s line of sight at all times, so they know they’re not alone. We allow the dog to pay attention to their surroundings as is natural for them.
Sound: We use noise-reducing earmuffs during drying; we play relaxing music; we use low soothing tones when we talk to the dogs.
Smell: We use Adaptil diffused pheromones, as well as aromatherapy in the space, in our shampoo, and, if necessary, topically.
Taste: We use calming treats. If a pet is particularly picky and doesn’t like any of the treats we offer, we encourage you to bring their favorite treats from home. Our toothpaste and CBD are meat flavored.
Touch: We use calming energy, including gentle rhythmic petting and gentle handling procedures, in all stages of grooming at all times.
Policies and Release
All new clients must sign our Policies and Release form, to which you can find a link below. Our policies are updated occasionally; when this happens, the document will be updated retaining your signature. Clients are notified of changes through email, and all changes will be effective immediately. By bringing your pet to be groomed, you are agreeing to our current policies and procedures.
View our full Policies and Release Form.
What We Believe About Our Canine Clients
Dogs are sentient beings, with similar intelligence and needs to a 2- to 4-year-old child.
Dogs have a right to set boundaries.
It is our responsibility to learn dogs' language and communicate with them in a way they understand.
While all dogs have similarities, there are also distinct differences between breeds and personalities, and these are essential to understanding each individual dog.
Providing as calm and comfortable experience is possible for each canine guest; it is our top priority. We use the best relief techniques available to help reduce stress and discomfort for each dog.
What We Believe About Our Staff
Every worker deserves the right to a minimum salary of living wage, and we encourage tipping for excellent work.
Respecting each staff member's right to self-expression, including personal style, gender identity, and cultural heritage, is imperative.
We keep excellent staff by maintaining an environment where each staff member has the right to set boundaries, pursue their passions, and work in a positive, encouraging atmosphere.
A job well done is worth paying for. We believe in providing exceptional customer service and quality work, and we charge accordingly.
Every staff member has a right to a safe, clean, and comfortable environment.
