5 Things to Look for in a Professional Dog Groomer
Being a groomer isn’t easy. It requires technical know-how, dexterity, and plenty of hand-eye coordination!
Prioritize your dog’s safety and comfort by choosing a groomer who follows strict health and safety practices. This includes cleaning procedures, pesticide handling, first aid, and more.
When you tour a salon, observe how the groomers talk to dogs. If they seem rushed or impatient, your pup might feel anxious during their time there.
1. Experience
In the dog grooming industry, experience is everything. Groomers who have been in the business for a long time understand the intricacies and nuances of different breeds, their hair structure, skin sensitivities, and their grooming requirements. This understanding allows groomers to handle pets with greater ease and finesse – making the grooming process more enjoyable for both pet and pet owner.
New groomers may have received a formal education in the field, but it’s the hands-on experience that really counts. Often, groomers will complete an internship or on-the-job training program before getting their start in the grooming business. Some groomers will even start out by volunteering at a shelter or kennel before finding their place in the grooming world.
Groomers who have been in the business a long time are likely to have built up a solid client base, and will be more than happy to provide references. You’ll also want to be sure that they’ve been trained on a wide variety of different breeds, as each requires its own unique handling techniques.
When it comes to safety, find out if the groomer prioritizes cleanliness and sanitation, and ask about their emergency procedures. You’ll want to know that they can handle any situation, as accidents can happen — especially with unruly or nervous pets.
It’s also worth asking the groomer about the types of products they use — and whether or not they choose high-quality, natural ones. Many groomers will have a preference for certain products, which can make all the difference when it comes to keeping your furry friend safe and comfortable during the grooming process. Groomers who are experienced with a variety of different breeds will have the necessary knowledge to choose the right brushes for the job, which will ensure that as much dead pet hair as possible gets removed from your pet.
2. Certification
As with any business, it takes a certain amount of knowledge and skill to become a professional dog groomer. Inquire about their certification, preferably one that is nationally recognized (like the Master Groomer program I supervise for the National Dog Groomers Association). This type of grooming credential shows you that they have passed a written and hands-on exam that covers many topics including safety procedures in the shop, sanitation protocols for clippers and other tools, anatomy, proper handling techniques, first aid and more.
During your tour, ask about the safety measures they take at their facility. Ensure they have the right kind of restraints to keep your pet safe on the table, and make sure their equipment is well-maintained, clean and in working order. It’s also important to find out if they take safety precautions such as avoiding blow drying brachycephalic breeds (bulldogs and pugs) in hot dryers because this can lead to heatstroke.
A good groomer prioritizes pet safety and follows stringent health and sanitation standards in their grooming shop. Check out their equipment and ensure they are using the best quality shampoos and conditioners, and that they do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive brushes on your pet’s fur. It’s also a good idea to find out whether they participate in any groomer safety programs, such as the AKC’s S.A.F.E Grooming, which is a great sign that they’re serious about pet safety and welfare.
Finally, a good groomer must have excellent communication skills. They will discuss the grooming process with you, listen to your concerns and answer any questions you may have. They will also provide you with regular updates on your dog’s progress and inform you if there are any issues that require their attention.
3. Reputation
There are a lot of ways that groomers get trained in their profession. Some groomers learn from mentorships, apprenticeships or in grooming school. They may also take specialized courses that allow them to enhance their grooming skills in particular areas or handle specific breeds.
Groomers need to have a lot of organizational skills, both when it comes to managing their clients, their finances and the supplies. Groomers need to be able to answer questions from their clients and make them feel at ease about their pet’s grooming experience.
If you are considering using a groomer, it’s worth asking them if they have liability insurance. This will protect you in the event that your dog has an accident while in their care. It’s a good idea to ask about their safety protocols, such as their methods of handling pets, their restraint systems and how they sanitize their equipment.
When looking for a groomer, consider personal recommendations from friends, family or your vet. Online reviews can also be a great way to discover groomers that are local to you and that have a positive reputation in the community. If you’re looking for a hassle-free experience, consider highly recommended mobile grooming near you for professional care at your doorstep.
In addition, it’s a good idea to tour a groomer’s facility and see their workspace. A clean environment can be a good sign that the groomer takes pride in their work and is careful about the well-being of the dogs in their care. A messy workspace can indicate a chaotic environment that will be stressful for your pet. You should also be sure to ask the groomer what their emergency procedures are in case of an accident or injury. They should be able to answer these questions clearly and concisely.
4. Fees
If you are not sure what questions to ask a potential groomer, a good place to start is asking them about their training and experience. You can also inquire about pet first aid training, scheduling requirements, and fees. It’s best to interview groomers in person if possible. This allows you to discuss the details of your pets’ needs with the groomer in a relaxed atmosphere.
While it may seem obvious, you should also ask how many dogs the groomer is comfortable grooming each day. Groomers that are backed up with appointments can be stressed and rushed, leading to a poorer quality of work. This will not be the case with a professional groomer who has a well-organized schedule and manages her time effectively.
It is important to find out how clean the grooming shop is. If the groomers wear dirty and wet clothing, or have poor hygiene in general, it is likely that they are not as dedicated to their job as you are to your pet. In addition to cleanliness, make sure the groomer has first-aid supplies such as gauze, bandages, peroxide and antibiotic cream on hand.
You should also ask if the groomer offers sedation grooming. This is an excellent option for nervous or aggressive dogs, and it can help both the groomer and the pet feel safer during the process.
In addition to determining how much experience a groomer has, you should also make sure that they are licensed and insured. This will protect you from being ripped off and will give you peace of mind in the event that something goes wrong during your dog’s grooming session. Additionally, it’s a good idea to check whether or not the groomer is a member of the Better Business Bureau or other watchdog organization.
5. Safety
Groomers who follow strict health and safety protocols set a professional standard that reassures pet owners. This includes using disinfectants and cleaners that are safe for pets and staff, keeping a non-slip surface on grooming tables, and ensuring that all equipment is clean and in good condition. It is also important to have pet first aid training and know how to respond to emergency situations, as well as to be able to recognize the signs of a sick pet.
A groomer should always wear protective gloves, long pants and arm coverings, as well as bite-proof safety scissors when handling pets. Those measures prevent groomers from getting cut during the process and ensures that they are protected in case of a dog biting during grooming or while moving the animal between bathing and drying stations. Having clean backup clothing on hand for groomers who may need to change after an accident is another important safety measure.
It is essential that the groomer stay calm and focused when working with a pet, especially if they are particularly nervous or aggressive. If a groomer is panicked, they will not be able to assess the situation properly or ask for help if needed.
It is also a good idea for groomers to keep their grooming and bathing areas tidy to avoid accidents caused by slippery floors, dropped tools or even overcrowded kennels that may cause dogs to fight or act aggressively toward one another. Having cages available for separating animals is a good way to prevent this from happening, and having restraints (such as a muzzle, leash or groomer’s loop) on hand is a smart preventive measure for dogs prone to nervous nipping.
