We all want the best for our fur babies. That’s why finding a pet groomer you’re comfortable with and trust to take good care of your pet isn’t always easy. No two groomers are alike, so knowing what to look for and the questions to ask are important.
At Acoma Animal Clinic, we know that grooming is a big part of your pet’s overall well-being. Here’s what to look for in a pet groomer, and some questions you should consider.
HOW DO I GET A LIST OF GROOMERS NEAR ME?
A good place to start when searching for a reputable pet groomer is to ask friends and family for their recommendations. If they’ve hired any groomers, they’re likely your best source for honest feedback. You can also search online and carefully read the customer reviews.
Online directories, like Pet Groomer Finder or the Better Business Bureau, can also be a good way to locate groomers in your area.
DOES A DOGGY DAYCARE PROVIDE GROOMING SERVICES?
Yes, some doggy daycares also offer grooming services. Some facilities are all-inclusive, meaning they offer a suite of services such as grooming, boarding, daycare, obedience training, etc. So, local doggy daycares can be a good place to check.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT PET GROOMER
With a list of potential groomers in hand, you can now narrow down your options. When contacting the groomers, ask if you can meet them in person and see the facility.
Phone conversations are great, but meeting in person will give you a better sense of their personality and professionalism. When you’re visiting the facility, make note of the following:
- Is the facility well-maintained and clean?
- Does it smell old and musty?
- Does it have good air circulation?
- Are they using pet-friendly products?
If they hesitate to show you the facility or seem nervous or annoyed when answering your questions, it could be a red flag.
WHAT QUESTIONS SHOULD I ASK?
You want a pet groomer who is patient and takes the time to address any questions and concerns you may have. After all, the safety and well-being of your pet will be in their hands. When talking with a potential groomer, consider asking the following questions to help put your mind at ease:
Q: How long have you been a pet groomer, and what kind of training do you have?
You’ll want to find a groomer who has a well-established business or at least has been properly trained. If they invest in continuing education, that’s a good sign of their dedication to providing the best service.
Q: Do they have experience grooming your pet’s breed?
Some breeds have specific grooming needs, so you may want to ask the groomer if they have experience with your pet’s breed. For instance, floppy-eared dogs like Cocker Spaniels are prone to ear infections, so regular, proper ear cleaning is important. Or curly-coated pets, like poodles, may need special attention to keep their coats in top shape.
Q: Where will your pet stay when they’re not being groomed?
You’ll want to know where your pet will be kept when they’re not on the grooming table and if they’ll be supervised. For their safety, they should be in a clean, well-ventilated crate by themselves.
Q: What happens in the event of an emergency?
Accidents can happen, so it’s important to know how the groomer handles emergencies. Is a first aid kit easily accessible? What happens if your pet needs medical attention? Does the groomer have liability insurance?
Q: What is the grooming process?
Not every groomer will have the same process. To better understand how a particular groomer works, consider asking about the following:
- How long will they keep your pet for grooming?
- Are the towels washed and dried after every use?
- What type of restraints are used to avoid falling or jumping off the table?
- Are the tables, floor, tools, tubs, and crate sanitized after each pet is groomed?
Q: How much will it cost?
The price of grooming services can vary depending on the coat type and size of the pet, so ask about pricing to know what to expect. Ask the groomer if they can provide a quote tailored to your pet’s needs, and list all of the services that will be included (e.g., pet dental cleaning, nail trimming and filing, gland expressing, ear cleaning, etc.)
Finding a reputable pet groomer is important for your pet’s overall well-being. It might take some time and research to find a groomer you’re comfortable with, but it’s worth the effort. At Acoma Animal Clinic, we’re here to help. Contact us today if you have any questions.
