How to Choose a Groomer

by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger

24 Jul 2006 09:23 AM

Independent groomers. Mobile groomers who come to your home. Groomers at your local pet super store. Groomers at your veterinarian's. Groomers at your doggy day care. With so many choices out there, how do you pick the groomer that is right for you and your pup?

Why choose a professional?

1. If you aren't comfortable with doing the grooming yourself.
2. If your pet requires more hair, skin, and/or nail care than you are capable of giving.
3. If your pet has developed hygiene issues -- sprayed by a skunk, developed serious mats, etc.

You may not have the time to groom your pets as often as they need it. Having a professional do a major grooming every so often may be beneficial for your pets -- you can probably handle the maintenance brushing, bathing, and even nail trimming if you desire. A seasonal clipping, medicated bath, or de-matting may need a professional's touch.

How do you find a groomer?

1. Ask your friends who have pets.
2. Ask your vet for recommendations.
3. Ask your local shelter or breeder's association for suggestions.
4. Check the National Dog Groomers Association of America.
5. Check with your local Better Business Bureau and/or Chamber of Commerce to see if any complaints have been lodged against a particular groomer.

No government agency regulates or licenses groomers. You may want to check your potential groomers for registration with a professional association or certification from a grooming school.

Be sure you know about services, costs, and hours of operation before you commit to an appointment! Prices can vary greatly; expect to pay more for a mobile grooming service. You can also ask for a tour of the facility and even the names of a few current customers for references. When you tour the facility, make sure it looks and smells clean. Watch the staff -- are they gentle and caring?

Before your first visit, make sure your pets are up-to-date on all vaccinations. Talk to your groomer about any health problems and behaviors that may affect the grooming. Groomers are not licensed to dispense tranquilizers; if your pet needs to be sedated, you need to find a veterinarian with a groomer on staff.

And keep in mind that using the services of a groomer doesn't free you from routine brushing and bathing. Brushing your pet is a great bonding experience and helps keep their skin and coat healthy.

Learn more about Aimee Amodio

Aimee is a fiction writer... dog lover... music lover...

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