Pet grooming is a broad term used to describe a variety of services. Looking and feeling good or impeccable is just as important for pets as it is for people. Wrestling your puppy into the tub or getting your kitten close to water are nightmares every pet owner has. So, pet grooming services are the perfect solution to this. All you need to do is find the best services in your neighborhood. However, there are many questions that pet parents have about such services. Here are some of them answered.
Does my pet need a groomer?
Taking your pet to a professional grooming service is not a necessary step. A scheduled vet visit, home grooming, and bathing are more than enough to keep your pet looking and smelling good. Typically, cats groom themselves, and dogs are more commonly in need of professional care. But long-haired and medium-haired cats can benefit more from such services. Some dogs, like golden retrievers and Portuguese water dogs, have dense coats and would need frequent grooming. Boxers and beagles, on the other hand, are may not necessarily need professional groomers.
What does a pet groomer do?
Apart from the obvious bathing and hair cuts, pet groomers do a lot of things with your pet. First, both dogs and cats need a quick health check-up. Groomers brush their coats and trim nails before a bath. Most groomers use hypoallergenic shampoos, but you should mention your pet’s allergies beforehand nonetheless. Your pets are then dried and given a haircut, if necessary. You can specify the list of services you require at the start of your appointment. Other grooming services vary between the groomers and involve hair conditioning, teeth cleaning, skin treatments, flea removal, and deodorizing.
What to look for in groomers?
Sometimes, a groomer would have apprenticed for a few hours and begun work immediately. But most attend a grooming school and spend a few months training for the job. Naturally, it is better to go for the groomer who is more experienced. There are a few fixed regulations regarding grooming training, so speak to the groomer to understand how long they have been doing this work and observe how comfortable they are with the process and the pets that come in for grooming.
What do groomers expect from clients?
Most grooming services expect that the pets who check in, especially the dogs, are up to date on their shots, particularly rabies and bordetella. Warning the groomers of aggressive pet behavior is also essential. The fear of being bitten is a problem for everyone. Most grooming centers have at least one groomer who is capable of handling aggressive dogs. Also, they advise pet parents to leave after deciding on the services and dropping off their pets. Pets tend to act up and squirm a lot when their owners are around.
How to tell if your pet is comfortable?
Some dogs are tender-skinned and sensitive and do not like being brushed or groomed; most cats do not like baths. But there are ways to tell if they are happy and comfortable. Dogs are easier to get friendly with. Grooming services are also a place for them to socialize and meet new people and other pets. Cats will indicate a need for privacy and space by swishing their tail, flicking their ears, tensing their body, and naturally hissing and growling. Surprisingly, cats do not mind being bathed if they are held right and eased into the process. Moreover, stressed pets will be stressed even with the groomers.
How much will a grooming session cost?
No matter how much you love your pet, the worries of the wallet will never truly disappear. The cost of grooming services will vary based on the size of your pet, the length of their coat, and the time required for the grooming. Additional services cost more. Also, check with the vet before you decide to pamper your pet with professional grooming services.