A big part of keeping your pet happy is keeping them clean. If your pet is small, you can probably wash them at home, but if they're extra-fussy or extra-large, you may need to go pro, because good hygiene is very important to a pet's health. Many issues, like infections or lumps, are discovered by groomers because washing and trimming fur and nails often exposes the problem, says The Humane Society.
Here's our guide to choosing the best groomer, because your pets only deserve the best.
1. Research online. Find all the groomers in your area. Ask your veterinarian and friends for recommendations. Narrow it down to two or three groomers to go check out.
2. Reach out. Call ahead and ask a staff member if it's alright for you to come by and take a look at the facilities. There should be no problem, and if they're hesitant to show you around, this is not the right place to drop off your furry friend.
3. Check out the scene. On your visit, consider the following: How's the lighting? Does the place look and smell clean? Are the staff friendly and professional? Are the animals kept in correctly-sized cages? Do they keep records of each pet's experience? All these questions are important for your pet's comfort and safety, according to the Humane Society.
4. Ask for certification. It's important that the groomer be certified or licensed to deal with ticks, fleas, or other specific issues, says PetMD. These issues can cause major discomfort for your furry companion.
5. Vaccination records. Make sure they require a vaccination record, as this is the best way to prevent the spread of diseases, says PetFinder. Also ask about their accident policy.
6. Discuss your pet's specific needs. Do they get anxious or fearful in new situations? Do they need extra-thorough brushing or trimming? Make sure to tell the groomer everything they need to know, it'll only make the process easier for them.
7. Pros and cons. Compare and contrast the facilities you've visited and pick which one you think will be best for your pet.
