How to Hire a Pet Groomer

By eHow Pets Editor

Instructions

Step 1:
Determine whether a grooming facility or mobile groomer will work best for you and your pet.
Step 2:
Ask for recommendations from a friend, veterinarian, boarding kennel, dog trainer or pet store.
Step 3:
Conduct a phone interview with the potential groomer to discuss the needs of your pet and the groomer's experience level.
Step 4:
Ask the groomer about fees, services and operational hours. It is important to determine what treatments are included in a standard service and what requires an additional fee. The "extras" can really add up.
Step 5:
Request a list of current clients to contact as references. This will allow you to obtain valuable input from another pet owner who has experience with the groomer.
Step 6:
Visit the facility if you opt for a location-based groomer. Is the grooming area clean and well lit? Are the groomers friendly knowledgeable and gentle with the pets? Are the cages adequately sized to accommodate animals of all sizes?
Step 7:
Ask for a courtesy visit if you choose to hire a mobile groomer. Most offer free consultations to meet and visit with your pet.

Tips & Warnings

Hire a groomer who is experienced and seems to put your pet at ease. Your animal's health, both physically and emotionally, is the most important factor in choosing a groomer.
Once you decide on a pet groomer, visit the Better Business Bureau to check for formal complaints against the entity (see Resources below).
If you decide on a mobile grooming business, look for a service that can guarantee the same groomer for each visit. You (and your pet) will feel more comfortable with the idea of a stranger in your home if it is the same groomer each visit.

Resources

Better Business Bureau to check for complaints against a groomer

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