Maripawsa Grooming sits in Mariposa, a small Gold Country town that makes a good base if you’re heading to Yosemite. Dana runs the place, and she’s the kind of groomer who actually listens when you describe what you want for your dog. One customer left a review saying Dana was friendly and took great care of their dog, and that kind of genuine feedback says more than any marketing copy.

The salon itself has that welcoming feel where dogs seem to settle in pretty quickly. Dana handles all breeds and sizes, so whether you’ve got a tiny Chihuahua or a big Lab, she knows how to work with them. The grooming runs the typical range—baths, haircuts, the standard services you’d expect. What matters more is that she takes time with each dog and doesn’t rush through appointments.

If you’re staying in Mariposa for a few days, there’s actually decent stuff to do with your dog nearby. The town sits in the Sierra Nevada foothills, and there are hiking trails in the area where dogs are welcome. It’s the kind of place where you could spend a morning on a trail, grab lunch, and then swing by for grooming before heading out again.

The surrounding area has that classic Gold Country charm—old mining towns, local restaurants, that kind of thing. It’s not as crowded as the Yosemite valley itself, which means you and your dog can explore without fighting massive crowds. If you’re driving to or from Yosemite, Mariposa is basically on the way, so it works logistically.

Since Dana runs a smaller operation, calling ahead to check on availability makes sense, especially if you’re visiting during peak season. She can tell you what she needs to know about your dog’s temperament or any specific grooming requests you have. Having that conversation beforehand means the appointment usually goes smoother.