When you adopt a cat or dog, you are entering into a new world of responsibility, time, and expense. The cost of food and veterinary care can be astronomical. But pet grooming is another expense to consider for cats and dogs. But how do you choose a good pet groomer, anyway?
A good pet groomer will keep your cat or dog looking sharp. But they also make sure their skin stays healthy. Fortunately, with some research and preparation, you can find the best pet groomer for your cat or dog. These are some helpful tips on how to choose the best groomer for your cat or dog.
Ask Around
There are many ways to find a quality groomer, but the easiest way to find one is to ask around. Talk to your veterinarian and the owners of other pets you know. If you use social media, make a post asking for recommendations.
Chances are, someone you know will be able to recommend a great groomer. Ask specific questions about their experience if needed.
Your veterinarian will be able to recommend a few groomers to you. However, keep in mind that your vet doesn’t have a full picture of the groomers in your area. You might have to go through a few bad groomers before you find one that is right for you.
Meanwhile, your veterinarian may also offer pet grooming services. This is especially true for us at Animal Care Center! We love having the opportunity to get your cat or dog looking their best. Just ask!
Check Licensing and Certification
The first thing you’ll want to do is check the groomer’s licensing and certification. In most states, any groomer who works with animals must have licensing. If you don’t see a license number on the groomer’s tag, find a new groomer.
In Georgia, those who have a pet grooming business must have a license with the Georgia Department of Agriculture. They will also need a business license.
While there are no requirements for grooming classes, it helps to have training. Ask about training and if they have any certifications.
If a groomer isn’t keeping his or her skills fresh, you find your pet looking much different than you expected. You’ll also want to make sure that the groomer has experience in the specific types of service that you want.
The truth is that grooming specialized field. Not all groomers are created equal. Furthermore, not all groomers are talented. You may have to go through several groomers before you find one who can do everything you want.
Set a Budget
Once you’ve found a few groomers you like, set a budget. Most groomers will charge a set price per grooming session. Sometimes you can find this information online. However, be sure to check it against the price of other groomers.
You want to make sure that the groomer you choose is at the average price for the services you want. Some groomers charge more for certain services, so make sure you’re aware of that. You may also want to set a price range for grooming. For example, a nail trim isn’t going to cost as much as a lion cut for your cat.
How to Interview a Groomer
Once you’ve found a few groomers you like, it’s time to set up an interview. You want to pick the groomer you want to work with, but you also want to see if the groomer is the right fit for you.
The best way to do this is to set up an in-person meeting with the groomer. If you live close enough to one of the groomers you like, you can set up a meeting at their place of business. You can always ask to do a FaceTime chat or video chat if you prefer. A simple telephone interview will work in most cases as well.
At this meeting, you want to talk with the groomer a little bit about their services and their rates. Make sure to ask about their grooming philosophy and what special services they offer. You’ll also want to be sure that you feel comfortable with the groomer. If you don’t feel comfortable with a groomer, you’re less likely to bring your pet back to that groomer.
It’s also not a bad idea to bring your dog or cat to see how they interact with the groomer. You’ll also want to see how the groomer interacts with your pet, too.
Dog Grooming Services: What to Look for
For dogs, you’ll want to make sure that you find a groomer who specializes in dogs. There are typically some differences in approach to grooming with cats vs. dogs. This is also true when it comes to dogs with long hair and short hair.
You’ll also want to learn all grooming services that your groomer offers. You may love the lion cut look, but is your groomer capable? Ask about your specific dog breed as well as the cut you want for him or her.
You’ll also want to make sure that the groomer is experienced in handling your type of dog. Some breeds are much easier to groom than others. A groomer who specializes in a certain breed of dog is more likely to have the experience necessary to groom your dog without any issues.
Cat Grooming Services
For cats, you will need to clearly communicate the cut you need for him or her. You’ll also want to ensure that the groomer can work with cats, as some only work with dogs.
Just like dogs, you’ll also want to make sure that the groomer is experienced in handling your type of cat. Some breeds are much easier to groom than others. A groomer who specializes in a certain breed of cat is more likely to have the experience necessary to groom your cat without any issues.
Meanwhile, be ready with a photo or description of your desired cut for your kitty. This will help the groomer get the best look for him or her.
Final Words
When you are picking out a pet groomer, you want someone who is efficient, clean, and minimally invasive. You don’t want your pet groomer to cut off too much fur or cause your pet to be in pain.
You want a groomer who is very knowledgeable about the best way to groom your pet. A groomer who knows how to groom your pet is more likely to be able to groom your pet correctly.
You can also inquire about packages to get the complete look you need. For example, if you bring Fido in for nail trims, a bath, and a haircut, the groomer might have a package deal to help cut down costs.
If you need pet grooming for your pup or cat, Animal Care Center is here to assist. Pet owners just like you trust us for pet grooming services for both dogs and cats. Contact us now with questions or to schedule a grooming appointment.
