How to choose a groomer.
Help! I need to find a groomer.
When looking for a groomer, it’s important to consider the following questions and conduct adequate research to make the best decision possible for your furry friend.
Is the groomer I’m considering certified through Canadian Certified Pet Stylists or another independent organization?
If you’ve answered no to those questions, here’s another one. Does your prospective groomers have a certificate of graduation from a grooming school? Although a certificate from a grooming school is a great place to start, a certification from an independent body, like the CCPS, is a guarantee your groomer has been tested against industry standards by unbiased professionals dedicated to advancing the art of grooming.
The groomer is certified! But how do I know what that means?
If a groomer is certified in Canada, they likely fall under one of the following categories:
LEVEL 1
Bather Technician
Intermediate Stylist Technician
LEVEL 2
Certified Groomer Sporting
Certified Groomer Non Sporting
Certified Groomer Terrier
LEVEL 3
Master Stylist
How long has this person been grooming?
A new groomer isn’t necessarily a bad groomer. Just like a groomer with decades of experience isn’t automatically the best. It is important to consider that a groomer fresh from grooming school or certification is still learning. There are seemingly endless dog breeds, coat types and personal style choices to master, that it’s simply impossible to learn and master it all in just a few months.
If you’re working with a new groomer, it may help to set expectations as they may be less confident in their skills, and as a result, work more slowly. Do you feel good about the environment the groomer works in and in their communication style? If so, you may have very well found the groomer for the life of your dog.
If you choose an experienced groomer, you and your dog will reap the benefits of the relationship. A seasoned groomer has seen it all. They are more confident in their abilities to handle any situation and are more accustomed to dealing with your dog’s unique needs. A long-time groomer may have physical limitations resulting in weight limits for the dogs they groom, or long wait lists with strict pre-booking requirements and cancellation policies. It’s often well worth it.
Ultimately, choose what works best for your dog and your dog’s individual grooming needs.
Does the groomer have a provincial business license?
This is a basic requirement of anyone operating a legitimate business. It shows you’re dealing with a professional that takes their job seriously.
What about business insurance?
The importance of this question cannot be overstated. Even highly skilled groomers experience accidents. They’re using sharp tools on live, wiggly dogs, all day everyday - it’s a reality of the job. A certificate of insurance is an essential mark of any professional groomer.
Is the groomer familiar with your breed of dog? If so, in what way?
Are you having your dog groomed as a pet? For showing, sport, or breeding? Groomers are individuals, and as such, no two will groom the same dog in exactly the same way. That said, if you’re expecting a groom that’s specific to the breed standard, the results amongst professional groomers should be similar. Some groomers are particularly skilled with terriers, while some own and show their own dogs and will be experts in their own breed of choice. Some professional groomers specialize in short neat pet trims, and others offer speciality styling such as Asian Fusion. Communication with your prospective groomer is key to ensuring expectations are met.
I’d like my dog’s hair kept as long as possible, please.
When explaining the desired length of hair for your dog, it’s important to first inquire if that’s possible for your chosen groomer. Professional groomers often use attachment guard combs on their clippers to achieve long styles. However, if you require a style longer than any guard, you will need to find a groomer with skills in hand scissor work.
How long is the appointment?
Some salons groom dogs one at a time. Others can schedule two at a time depending on the staffing of said shop. Some operate by having dogs arrive in the morning and stay for a half of full day while grooming the dogs in stages. None is right or wrong, but you know your dog best. Which situation do you think would work best for them?
What is the groomer’s plan in case of emergency?
Does your groomer have a relationship with a vet close to the shop? What’s the plan if your vet isn’t available or nearby? Is your groomer certified in pet first aid?
How is the groomer able to accommodate your pet’s specific needs?
Does your dog have allergies or a skin condition? It’s important to discuss these specific needs with your groomer. Your groomer should be aware of any allergies or sensitivities so they know not to feed certain treats or apply certain products. If you, your pet, or someone in your home experiences scent sensitivities it’s important to ask about the availability of scent free shampoo and conditioner before booking your appointment.
It’s important to consider your dog’s physical and behavioural limitations.
Can the groomer accommodate your dog’s physical conditions? What about behavioural limitations? If your dog is nervous or aggressive towards other dogs you should choose a shop that offers private one-on-one appointments. If your pup is a senior or lives with a physical disability it might be necessary for two people to work with your dog: one for support and comfort and one to do the grooming. Since this isn’t always possible, and may cost more, it’s important to inquire upfront so you know if the shop is right for you and your dog.
Does your chosen groomer partake in continued education or belong to any professional associations?
Dog grooming is constantly evolving. New techniques and products are coming out all the time. Groomers that constantly participate in continuing education are the most likely to offer exceptional services.