Choosing a Groomer, Part 2

Finding a groomer is not as easy as you might think. Here is the 2nd part of the 2 part series

You're checking out a grooming salon; you're in the door, your dog is comfortable, the staff is friendly and thinks your dog is adorable.

So far so good.

The next item on the list is the cleanliness of the facility. A few hairs escaping across the floor isn't a big deal, but grunginess is. Grooming can be a messy business, but you should expect your grooming salon to be every bit as clean as the salon you go to when you get your hair done. Stations should be cleaned between clients; you wouldn't want to sit down to have your washed and cut at a station covered with someone else's hair!

Sanitation is especially important in a grooming scenario. There are so many skin conditions that can be passed from animal to animal, plus parasites; fleas, lice, ticks. Not only should the stations look clean, you should see evidence of antiseptic cleaners.

About those cleaners . . . they should be put up, out of reach of animals and in containers not easily opened by pets, as should all shampoos, conditioners and any other substances used by the groomers.

Grooming harnesses should be clean and not frayed, and if you see choke chains attached or laying around as though they are used in the grooming area, well, that's not appropriate. Muzzles are. Many dogs don't like the process of being bathed and groomed and few groomers enjoy having their faces mere inches from a snarling, unhappy dog's mouth, so it is completely reasonable and acceptable to keep an assortment of muzzles handy for times when they are needed. Even the best behaved dogs can have an off day at the groomer's, no matter how gentle and adept that groomer may be.

While you're looking the place over, notice what kind of equipment they use for drying. If drying booths are used, find out how attentively they are monitored, what temperature is used and how it is maintained. It's not unknown for pets to die in those contraptions when unchecked. The heat can get too high with tragic results.

Oh, and if you see those pet washers where your pet is shut into a box and jets of water and soap are sprayed, you might want to leave, although it would be tempting to stash the owner/manager in one for a quick wash.

Ask about the products used and their contents, especially if you have a dog with sensitive skin or allergies. There shouldn't be any problem with using products you supply, too, if you have a preference for a certain product or there's a need to use something specific to any condition your dog might have. Most good salons will have an adequate selection and should be knowledgeable about choosing the right shampoos and conditioners for different coat and skin types. You might even get introduced to something you like better than your regular.

Personally, I expect a grooming salon to be comfortable letting clients and potential clients observe -- from a distance, since having a stranger around can be unsettling to some animals. Ask to observe, and tell them that if you bring your pet in to be groomed you expect to be able to watch the process sometimes. You'll want to check on things especially if your pet has been showing signs of being anxious when you bring them in.

On your way out, make note of whether or not you see any trade magazines and reference books, even dog training books, out where they are being read. It's always a good sign when professionals are making an effort to keep up on the latest information and trends, even if you don't go for that trendy stuff and just want the basics.

By now you've gathered some good information on your scouting trip. Now it's up to you to decide if you want to check other shops on your list or if you're satisfied. If you are, go ahead and book your first appointment!

Brian is a freelance writer for www.pet-super-store.com: where you can find deals on pet doors and dog kennels.

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