I have groomed animals for many years in many different settings. So far, I have owned and operated my own pet grooming business, groomed at a big box pet supply store, and worked as a groomer at a vet/doggie daycare. Having such varied experience helps me to realize what each has to offer the pet and pet owner, and what type of person to look for when choosing a reputable and caring groomer.
Choosing the Right Setting
There are many different settings that you can choose from when considering your pet's grooming needs. There are grooming locations where you drop your pet off to be groomed and pick them up later. These include at home groomers, grooming shops, veterinary offices, and pet stores. Some establishments will allow you to stay during the groom, though this is rare. You will need to inquire about this additional service, and an extra fee may be required.
Many people find that a mobile or house call groomer is best when dealing with an elderly, health impaired, or anxious pet. This is because the animal is allowed to stay at home in familiar surroundings with its owner during grooming.
A mobile groomer typically has a grooming van or trailer that they drive to the customer's house to do the actual grooming in. A house call groomer is even more personal, bringing all of the grooming equipment into the client's home and grooming the animal right in its own environment. These two grooming options often cost more, but can be well worth it.
To find the type of groomer you are looking for you can simply see what is available in the phone book. You can also ask around for references. Also, there are groomer directories online that list local groomers, such as FindaGroomer.com.
Choosing the Right Groomer
You may try several groomers before you find one you are comfortable with, and that's O.K. However, there are some steps you can take to make that quest shorter and less stressful. Here are questions to ask a potential groomer to ensure they fit your needs:
- Do you have any grooming restrictions? (Some groomers do not groom large animals, aggressive animals, matted animals, etc.)
- Where did you receive your training? (Answers will vary. Self learning, correspondence learning, apprenticeship, and grooming school attendance are all acceptable. Don't judge a groomer by his or her training. What is important is that they do have training, and that they are interested in continued education in the field.)
- How do you deal with behavior problems while grooming? (Listen out for compassionate approaches. Also, know that it is better to have a less than perfect groom than overstress an animal.)
- May I have references? (This should be no problem, unless the groomer is just starting out. If references aren't available, ask to see photos of the groomer's work.)
Choosing just the right groomer for your furry friend will indeed take time and patience. Once you find your perfect groomer, be sure to treat him or her right. Always remember to be kind, and a good tip helps too!
See also: Instructions On How To Groom Your Dog At Home-Tips From A Groomer
Angel Chavis - Angel Chavis lives in NC with her husband, daughter, and various pets. She is a Christian, wife, homeschool mom, writer, student, and ...
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