Choosing a groomer for your dog or cat can be a simple procedure if you are prepared with a few
questions prior to making that appointment. One of the easiest ways to find a groomer is to
ask friends who own dogs or cats where they take their pets. Always keep your eyes open
for well groomed dogs when you are out and ask their owners who they use. They will be glad to
tell you. The yellow pages are a great source for finding local groomering shops. 
The following are questions you might ask that will help determine the compatibility of the
establishment with your pet's grooming needs:

   1. How long have you been in grooming industry? Do they participate in continuing
       education? Are you certified? If not, why?

   2. How do you deal with animals with sensitive skin ? Do they offer special shampoos
        and rinses. Will they use the shampoo you brought? If not, the reason should be
        because it is inferior or they do not have a Material Safety Data Sheet on that product.
        If you want the shampoo or conditioner used you will be asked to supply the appropriate
        MSDS. They are not being hard to get along with it is a federal law.

   3. What is included in the grooming price? Basic grooming should include nail clipping, ear
       cleaning, belly and pads cleaned, bathing, drying and clipping ( appropriate to the breed
       specifications or condition of animal).

   4. View the facilities when you arrive. Do not speak to animals in waiting areas or on the
        table. This presents a problem as the animals often get agitated thinking their owner has                
        come to pick them up.  
       If you arrive while pets are being groomed, remember that while animals are being groomed         
       there will be hair clippings and wet doggy smells. However, mounds of hair on the floor 
        and  really strong odors are not a sign of a clean grooming shop.

   5. What type of drying techniques are used? eg. blow dry or cage dry.

   6. Are pets within view of some staff member and in a safe environment at all times?

   7.  What are your hours if I get tied up shopping, etc? Can I just drop back by and
         check to see if ready? The answer to this will vary shop to shop. Most will tell
         you that they will call when ready or give you a time. Remember groomers have
         a family and a life too! Do not impose on their kindness to often.

  Plain communication is the key. "Real Short all over" can be a shock when you pick up the pet if
you have not been specific about how short! Discuss length of ears, tail, and coat. The groomer
will provide breed standard grooming unless you request changes. Mixed breed dogs are generally
groomed to be cute. Remember, groomers are not  magicians. If the pet's coat is thin, or matted,
the end results can be a shock. If your pet is badly matted, a responsible groomer will suggest the
alternative to brushing out the mats, as brushing a matted coat is extremely painful and stressful to
the pet. That humane alternative is a short haircut. Be prepared to learn to brush and comb or love
your pet in a "short do"!