Short Bark and Sides Grove Road, Devonport, Auckland 0624

"I took my 4.5-year-old Cairn-Westie cross 'Teddy' to Barbara at Short, Bark & Sides on Mon 10 July 2023 and this is what she did to him. Such an extreme and rough all-over cut with most of his neck hair and mane removed, his tail tassels gone + an uneven skirt on both sides and an extreme wedge at the back of his head that resembles an ill-fitted toupee. Not to mention uneven lengths on his face & rear area. An absolutely shocking groom. He no longer resembles either a Cairn or a Westie and is basically the same length all over his body with the exception of his belly and face - which is also very uneven. It's so extreme and short with none of his breed features remaining. To say I am beside myself and somewhat in shock is an understatement. After messaging the owner Barbara the next morning and relaying my concerns, she did offer to re-groom him & also a refund, however - with so little hair left to work with, especially on his neck - I can't see how taking any more hair off him is going to make it better. It's VERY VERY short ! My dog had a full coat and there was no reason to cut him so short and so roughly & extreme. I also asked Barbara if she wasn't the groomer who cut him then who was? I've only ever dealt with Barbara and I received neither an answer to that question or an apology. I can only assume my dog was passed on to an unskilled groomer who does not know how to cut either a Cairn Terrier or a West Highland Terrier - because Ted came back looking like neither. He just looks sad. I'm so incredibly disappointed, feel very disrespected and just annoyed for being treated so poorly. If you're considering taking your dog to Short, Bark & Sides be aware that it's not all perfect & wonderful and things can go VERY wrong. Photos attached. The first photo is how full his coat was 2 weeks ago."

"Barbara and her team at Short Bark and Sides are talented experts in the grooming field. Your animal is always handed back looking and smelling wonderful, and in beautiful condition. A job brilliantly completed. However it doesn't stop there as they consistently demonstrate kindness, patience, compassion and a genuine love for the pets in their care."

"Barbara is an amazing dog groomer - she goes the extra mile with our old boy who's not that well at times. He always loves going to Barbara and his groom always takes years off him. Thoroughly recommend Short Bark and Sides!"

"Always exceptional grooms. My dogs love going and are always treated so well by Barbara and Helen. It's such a lovely, safe setting and so close to the beach and cafe for a quick wander and coffee while you wait. Highly recommended."