Finding a Grooming Shop

Our four legged furry friends have become just as important family members as the two legged variety!  The problem is that the four legged ones usually come with fur and some have too much to handle!  For the majority of people handling the main grooming needs of their pets requires the aid of a professional.  Trusting a stranger to handle our beloved pets can be very difficult.  These are some tips to guide you in choosing a professional grooming shop that both you and your pet will feel comfortable going to.

Qualifications of Staff

It is important to ask what the qualifications of the staff are.  There are two ways that a groomer can be qualified.  The first is to have a certificate from a grooming school.  This shows that a groomer has completed a course but keep in mind that grooming is not a regulated industry so anyone can open up a grooming school, teach and give out a certificate.  The only international certification that is recognized is “Master Groomer”.  This is an intense and very expensive way to get certified so many groomers do not achieve this level.  The other way of learning, like most other trades, is apprenticing under a groomer whom has had many years of experience.  Ask how many years of experience the groomers have and what knowledge they have about the different breed types etc...   Some people with purebreds like to go to a shop that may specialize in their specific breed. Most of all, does the staff seem friendly and approachable? 

Involvement in the Pet Industry

Find out how the grooming shop is involved in the industry.  Does the shop help support animal rescue or the local shelters?  Does any of the staff have Pet First Aid.  Is there continuing education going on such as going to seminars on nutrition, veterinary care, training and grooming?

Visit the Shop

Before you make your first appointment it is wise to visit the shop.  This is when you can ask plenty of questions and get a feeling of what you think of the shop and some of its staff.  You may not be able to tour the whole facility because this can upset the animals that are there but you will notice how clean the place is.  You can also find out how much knowledge the staff have about your pets breed type or personality type. 

Policies and Procedures

Find out what some of the shop’s policies and procedures are.  How are the appointments booked?  Do they keep pets all day? Do they keep them for a couple of hours and book appointments throughout the day?  Is there boarding available and what are the shop’s hours of operation?  What procedures are followed when a dog gets injured, is matted, has health issues or there is a problem with the grooming?

What is Involved with the Grooming

Check to see all of what is involved with the grooming.  Ask what type of haircut or brushing is done?  Does the grooming include the nails, ears, bath and anal glands?  Find out the process that is involved with the grooming of your pet.  Most people have no idea what is involved especially if the dog is older, has health issues and or is matted.  Many shops have special equipment such as hydraulic tables to assist dogs into the tub or for the grooming to make it easier for them.  Some shops dye or paint toenails on pets too!!!

Now that you have asked plenty of questions and found the shop that you feel suits you and your pet’s needs, it is time to try it out!!  It may take your pet a few times going to one place before it becomes comfortable and happy leaving you and being there. You should never have a bad feeling about leaving your dog, your own separation anxiety not included!!!