10 Things to Ask a Dog Groomer Before Your Book Them
Brushing and grooming your dog at home is adequate for many, but some dogs need professional haircuts. Dog groomers are excellent at getting mats out, trimming nails and making your dog look picture pawfect. So, if you’re thinking it’s about time your dog headed to the salon for a glam up, the first step in discovering your ideal groomer is to do some research. It’s best to ask trusted friends and family for their recommendations before searching online. Then, here are our top questions to ask a dog groomer before you book their services.
1.Do you have a website, Facebook page or Instagram?
One of the best places for a dog groomer to showcase their skills and services is on social media. Having social media allows customers to connect with their business and for them see photos of their work and reviews from previous customers. You’ll also get an insight into their salon set up, personality and whether the dogs they photograph look happy and cared for. There is no harm in asking a groomer to send you the links to their social networks for you to take a look. I would be a little concerned if a dog groomer had no website or social media presence at all.
2.Can I visit your shop / facility?
Most professional dog groomers will be happy to give you a tour of their facilities and speak to you about what to expect prior to you booking your dog in for a groom. During your visit you will want to check that it's clean and meet the staff that will be working with your dog. You’ll be able to ask what their drop off/collection process is and how they help dogs to settle in and be comfortable with the grooming process.
3.Besides brushing, shampoo and haircut, what services do you provide?
Find out from your groomer exactly what services they offer and are available to you. Many dog groomers have the tools and experience to remove mats, trim nails and clean your dogs ears. Some professional groomers will also make you aware of ear infections, tooth decay and skin infections.
If you’re look for a first groom, check if they offer a ‘settling in’ package where they build a rapport with your dog and gently build up to a full groom over 3 or 4 sessions to ensure your dog finds the experience enjoyable.
4.Can I stay and watch while you do the groom?
It’s not unreasonable to want to observe your dog’s first groom and/or settling in session but just remember dogs can feed off of our emotions and so if you’re nervous it could make your dog more anxious, they can also act differently when their own humans are present.
5.Do you have experience with my dog’s breed?
There is no harm is asking whether the groomer you’re considering has had experience with your dog’s specific breed. Some breeds have specific grooming needs and it’s good to find out if your groomer is aware by asking whether he or she knows what the breed standard is and whether they can perform the correct hair cut for your breed. Always ensure they are aware of your individual preferences before the groom takes place to avoid disappointment, however remember sometimes for your dog’s well-being they have limited choices when removing excessive matts etc.
6.What kind of training or qualifications do you have?
Whilst you don't need a formal qualification to become a dog groomer, it is advisable as it's intricate and skilled work so don’t be afraid to ask a groomer questions about their knowledge, training and level of experience. Finding out that your groomer has taken the time to train professionally will give you a little more trust in their services.
In our opinion, all dog groomers should have knowledge and training, not just in grooming techniques, but in Canine First Aid and Canine Body Language too to ensure they are able to listen and respond to their canine clients communication and know how to care for them if they become unwell.
7.Are you a member of the British Dog Groomers Association and/or PIF (Pet Industry Federation)?
There are no specific licences that apply to dog grooming establishments in the UK. However, seeing your groomer with active membership to the British Dog Groomers Association, PIF (Pet Industry Federation), or other voluntary education programs or organisations is a good sign that the groomer is committed to providing the best and safest services, as well as using best practices in the health and safety of dogs in their care.
8.Do you have liability insurance?
While we don’t often think to ask this, knowing that your groomer has liability insurance can give you peace of mind that, if for any reason your dog is injured while under the groomer’s care, any medical expenses you incur as a result should be covered.
9.What do you do in case of an emergency?
Find out how your groomer will communicate with you in event of an emergency which could include sickness, an accident or evacuation of their facility and find out what they would do and where they would take your dog in these events.
10.How much does the groom cost?
It might be a question you want to ask upfront to avoid any sudden shock when it comes to paying. The cost of dog grooming can vary by dog size and coat type, as well as what services are included. Some dogs also take longer to groom than others. A professional groomer will be able to quote you once they assess your dog’s individual needs.
Grooming is part of your dog’s regular care and finding a skilled groomer is your key to keeping your dog looking and feeling their best. Do your research, ask questions and find out what you need to regarding skills, training and the environment that the groomer provides.
Can you think of any other questions that you would ask a Dog Groomer about their services?
Click here to read our latest blog courtesy of Courtney Sawyers from Pawfect Grooming who provides us with her top winter grooming tips to keep your dog’s coat mud and matt free.
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