Has your recently adopted dog become super shaggy, like the character Shaggy Dog? If that's the case, it's time to think about finding a dog groomer. Dog grooming involves leaving your dog with a person who will use tools to trim and clean them, so it's essential to do some research and discover a groomer you feel comfortable with. Here are some easy tips for finding the perfect groomer for your furry friend.
Do I Need a Professional Dog Groomer?
Whether or not you should use a professional dog groomer depends on your dog's type and how comfortable you are grooming them at home. Basic tasks like bathing, brushing, cleaning ears, and trimming nails can be done at home, and they're not too hard. If you have a dog with long hair or a thick coat that's prone to getting tangled, you can still manage it yourself. But remember, you'll need special tools like pet clippers and detangling brushes, along with plenty of time and patience. If you're short on any of these, it's better to let a professional handle things like haircuts and mat removal. Doing it yourself might accidentally hurt your dog and make them scared of grooming.
Even if you're well-prepared, the first trip to the groomer with your dog can make you a bit nervous. But if you think about your dog's needs and personality and find a groomer with a good reputation, you can feel more at ease. As you continue to visit the groomer, you'll also become more knowledgeable about how to instruct them. For example, if you want the fur not too short or prefer a fluffy tail. When your pup is all cleaned up, you'll have a dog that looks neat and tidy.
Selecting a Dog Groomer
To find a trustworthy dog groomer, start by asking for help. You can ask your friends, family, people you work with, or folks you know. Also, talk to your vet, dog trainer, or other pet experts you're familiar with. They can point you in the right direction.
After shortening your list, it's time to talk to the groomers. You can give them a call and ask about things like how much they charge, what services they offer, any special rules for new clients, their hours, and any questions you have about your dog. You can also check if they give dogs breaks for the bathroom and playtime. It's a good idea to ask for references from people who use their services. You can also ask if you can visit their place to see it before taking your dog there. If they hesitate about this, it might be best to remove them from your list. A reliable groomer should be open to a visit.
Once you've shortened your list, it's time to talk to the groomers. Give them a call and ask about their prices, the services they offer, any rules for new clients, their operating hours, and any questions about your dog's specific needs. It's also a good idea to check if they provide bathroom and play breaks for dogs and request references from their current clients. Don't forget to ask if you can visit their place before bringing your dog. If they hesitate about this, it might be best to remove them from your list. A trustworthy groomer should be happy to show you their facility.
Visit the grooming place in person. Look for cleanliness and good lighting in the grooming areas. Check if the cages are spacious enough for dogs to move comfortably. Observe how friendly and gentle the staff is with the dogs. Make sure they watch over pets under blow-dryers to prevent overheating. Ask about the records they keep. It's best if they maintain grooming, medical, vaccination, and emergency contact records.
Alternative Dog Grooming Services
You don't have to stick with regular dog grooming salons. There are other choices. You can have a mobile grooming van come to your society for personal grooming.
Mobile grooming vans have small grooming setups in vans. They come to your society and do one dog at a time, right in your driveway. This is super convenient, and your dog gets all the attention in a calm environment, without being caged or around noisy dogs. It's great for older dogs or those who don't like going to a regular salon but are okay with grooming. Keep in mind that mobile groomers usually charge more than regular salons.