Secrets For Choosing A Great Dog Groomer
Just like you wouldn’t go to any beautician or barber to get a hair cut, you shouldn’t take your dog to any old groomer either. After all, your dog deserves to be with a groomer who is kind, gentle, empathetic, and respectful of your dogs unique personality and needs. In this article, we’ll teach you the secrets of finding a professional dog groomer and how to make the grooming process easier and less stressful for your four-legged friend. So, let’s get started.
First, you should understand what the grooming process entails. For instance, dog grooming is much more than combing your dogs hair. It also involves trimming your dogs hair, nails, checking for signs of illness, etc. Therefore, it is important that you choose someone that knows with experience and knows what theyre doing.
Second, dont always go with the lower price. Although we all want to get the best services for our money, we shouldn’t limit ourselves to low cost providers. Consider this, although technicians at veterinarian offices tend to cost more, they are specially trained to notice medical difficulties and can act quickly, if needed. That is, during the grooming procedure, veterinarian techs perform wellness checks on your dog and if they notice any abnormalities like a dog ear infection, they will inform you and offer medical treatment options to help him get better. Therefore, the higher upfront cost of a vet technician’s services can be offset as they’ll successfully diagnose medical problems during the grooming procedure that will save you costly veterinarian bills.

Third, if you dont know whom to choose, ask for referrals from friends and family members, a boarding kennel, dog trainer or pet supply store. Another option is to visit the “pet grooming” section of your local phone book and then contact prospects to inquire about their grooming services.
Fourth, visit the prospects grooming facilities in person and make sure that:
The facilities are clean
The staff is compassionate and knowledgeable
They have credentials and proper grooming training
They have no complaints filed against them with the Better Business Bureau
You can personally contact their satisfied customers
They have clean and roomy cages
They require vaccination records before accepting your dog.
Fifth, get clarification of the grooming services that your dog will undergo and the price involved. For instance, will your dog receive a haircut, bath, brushing and combing, nail clipping, ear cleaning, etc? Is this all inclusive in the price or do you have to pay extra for certain services? After the details have been worked out, make an appointment.
Sixth, get your dog used to the grooming procedure at home. This can be done by brushing your dog at home and getting him used to being handled. Not only will this make it easier for the groomer but will also help prevent stress on your dog as hell be used to the grooming process.
In conclusion, choosing the best dog groomer takes time but is well worth the effort. By understanding the dog grooming process, conducting research to find a qualified professional, and preparing your dog beforehand, you’ll ensure that your dog is properly groomed by a professional that you can trust.

August 27, 2010 


