What Splash and Dash Groomerie offers
Splash and Dash Groomerie is a self-service dog wash facility where you bathe and groom your own dog using equipment and supplies they provide. You rent a grooming station by the hour, and the facility supplies the tub, water, dryer, shampoo, and towels. You do the washing and drying yourself rather than leaving your dog with a groomer.
The company operates multiple locations across the United States, though not every city has one. Each location is set up the same way: individual grooming bays with elevated tubs, warm water, and high-velocity dryers. You bring your dog, pay for your time slot, and work through the bath and dry process on your own schedule.
This model differs from a traditional grooming salon where a groomer handles everything. It also differs from a do-it-yourself setup at home because you have professional equipment — particularly the high-velocity dryer, which removes water much faster than a household hair dryer — and you do not have to clean up your own bathroom afterward.
Key Takeaways
- Splash and Dash rents grooming bays by the hour, and you wash and dry your own dog using their equipment and shampoo.
- Pricing varies by location and bay size, but you typically pay an hourly rate that covers the station, water, shampoo, towels, and dryer use.
- You need to book a time slot in advance through their website or by phone, and availability depends on your local facility's schedule.
- The high-velocity dryer is the main tool you cannot replicate at home, and it cuts drying time significantly compared to towel-drying or standard hair dryers.
- You are responsible for controlling your dog during the bath and dry, so this works best for dogs that tolerate water and handling well.
How to find a Splash and Dash location near you
Splash and Dash has locations in multiple states, but coverage is not nationwide. The easiest way to check if there is a facility near you is to visit their website and use the location finder. You enter your city or zip code, and the tool shows you nearby facilities with their addresses and hours.
If you find a location, you can call them directly to ask about pricing, bay sizes, and how far in advance you need to book. Some locations fill up on weekends and evenings, so calling ahead also tells you when slots are actually open.
If no Splash and Dash location exists in your area, you may find similar self-service dog wash facilities run by other companies or independent operators. Some pet supply stores and boarding facilities also offer self-service wash stations, though the equipment and pricing vary widely.
Pricing and what is included in your rental
Splash and Dash charges by the hour, and the rate depends on which location you visit and which bay size you choose. Larger bays cost more than smaller ones. You can contact your local facility directly for exact pricing, as rates are not published uniformly online and change by region.
Your hourly fee typically covers the grooming station itself, warm water, shampoo, conditioner, towels, and use of the high-velocity dryer. Some locations offer add-ons like specialty shampoos or ear cleaning solutions for an extra charge. You do not pay extra for water or for the basic supplies included in your rental.
Most locations require you to book and pay in advance through their website or over the phone. Some accept walk-ins if a bay is free, but this is not may provide. Cancellation policies vary by location, so ask about their refund or rescheduling terms when you book.
How to book a time slot
To book a grooming bay, visit the Splash and Dash website and select your location. The site shows available time slots for the next several days or weeks, depending on how far in advance the facility takes bookings. You choose your preferred date and time, select your bay size, and complete payment online.
If you prefer to book by phone, call your local Splash and Dash facility directly. Staff can tell you which times have open bays and can process your payment over the phone. Phone booking is useful if you have questions about bay size or want to know how much time you will actually need.
Most facilities ask you to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early so staff can show you how to use the equipment and answer questions about water temperature or shampoo options. If you have never used a high-velocity dryer before, arriving early gives you time to get comfortable with it before your paid time starts.
What to bring and how to prepare your dog
Bring your dog, a collar or harness for control, and any medications or treats you want to have on hand. You do not need to bring shampoo, towels, or a dryer — those are all provided. Some people bring a mat or non-slip surface to place in the tub if their dog is nervous about standing on a slippery surface, though many facilities have these available.
Before you arrive, brush your dog thoroughly to remove loose fur and mats. Matted fur traps water and takes much longer to dry, and it can be uncomfortable for your dog. If your dog has never been bathed or has anxiety around water, consider doing a short practice session at home first or asking your veterinarian for information on calming techniques.
Wear clothes you do not mind getting wet. Even with care, water splashes during the bath and drying process. Closed-toe shoes are a good idea because the bay floor will be wet. If your dog is large or strong, bring a second person to help you control them during the bath and dry.
Step-by-step what happens during your session
When you arrive, staff will show you to your assigned bay and explain how to use the tub controls, shampoo dispenser, and dryer. The tub is usually elevated so you do not have to bend over as much as you would at home. Water temperature is typically pre-set to a safe, warm level, but you can adjust it slightly if needed.
You start by wetting your dog with the hose, then explore shampoo and work it through their coat. Rinse thoroughly until all shampoo is out. Some facilities provide conditioner as well; if you use it, explore it after the final rinse and rinse again. Once your dog is rinsed, you can use towels to remove excess water, then move to the high-velocity dryer.
The high-velocity dryer is loud and powerful — it blows water out of the coat much faster than a regular dryer. Your dog may be startled the first time, so start on a lower setting if available and let them adjust. Keep the dryer moving so you do not focus heat on one spot for too long. Drying usually takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on your dog's coat type and size.
When you are finished, rinse out the tub, wipe it down if your facility asks you to, and let staff know you are done. Some facilities have a designated area where you can let your dog shake off and settle before leaving.
Dogs that are a good fit for self-service grooming
Self-service grooming works best for dogs that tolerate bathing and handling without extreme anxiety or aggression. Dogs with short to medium coats dry faster and are easier to manage than dogs with thick, long, or curly coats. Small to medium-sized dogs are easier to control in the tub than large or giant breeds, though people do bring larger dogs successfully.
Dogs with skin conditions, ear infections, or other health issues may not be a good fit because you are not a veterinarian and cannot assess whether water or shampoo will irritate their skin. If your dog has a medical condition, ask your veterinarian whether self-service bathing is safe or whether you should see a professional groomer instead.
Dogs that have never been bathed or that have a strong fear of water may find the experience stressful. In those cases, a professional groomer or a veterinary behaviorist can help you work through the anxiety before you attempt a self-service session. Some dogs straightforward do better with a calm, experienced handler managing the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to make an appointment or can I just show up?
Most Splash and Dash locations require advance booking through their website or by phone. Walk-ins are sometimes accepted if a bay is free, but you cannot count on it, especially on weekends. Booking ahead guarantees you a time slot and lets you plan your visit.
How long does a grooming session usually take?
Most sessions take 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on your dog's size, coat type, and how comfortable they are with the process. Small dogs with short coats may finish in 30 to 45 minutes. Large dogs or dogs with thick coats can take 1.5 to 2 hours. Your first visit may take longer because you are learning the equipment.
What if my dog is aggressive or will not cooperate?
If your dog becomes aggressive, refuses to cooperate, or is in distress, stop the session and let staff know. Splash and Dash staff can advise you on whether to reschedule or try a different approach. A professional groomer may be a better option if your dog has behavioral challenges around bathing.
Can I use my own shampoo instead of theirs?
Most Splash and Dash locations provide shampoo as part of your rental and prefer you use theirs. If your dog has a skin condition or allergy that requires a specific shampoo, contact your local facility in advance to ask whether you can bring your own. Some locations allow it; others do not.
Is the water temperature safe for my dog?
Water temperature is pre-set to a warm but safe level at most facilities. You can adjust it slightly if it feels too hot or cold, but the system is designed to prevent water that is hot enough to burn. If you have concerns about your dog's sensitivity to temperature, test the water with your hand first.