I’ve set my efforts on finding the best dog groomer for Dexter. He was anxious at his last appointment with all the other dogs around so I’m looking bringing him to a neighbor who has a small grooming operation.
This list was especially helpful from Alissia Wolf. On her blog, she goes into much more detail each of her points:
- Research groomers in your area.
- Groomers years and training
- Groomers shop and attitude
The most important for me is the groomers shop. A well maintained and clean shop means the groomer has passion for what they do, and they pay attention to details.
I have been going to a big box groomer for a long time and have noticed that they don’t pay attention to some details. On our way to the grooming section, quite often dogs have marked at the end of the aisles, there is lots of hair in the corners of the salon waiting area, and spot sweeping is minimal throughout the day.
The store is also full of foreign smells. Dog food, cat food, bird food, fish food, frog food, wet food, dry food, catnip, brands and brands and brands of all of the above, dog toys, lights, barking, children running, adults talking, music, announcements, constant motion. I think it might be overwhelming. A smaller groomer will have a much more relaxing environment.
Also, because they do a large volume, there are constantly other dogs around, and during peak times, there are LOTS of other dogs around. Dexter is friendly and wants attention from everyone so he wiggles and squirms making for extra work for the groomers, and it also increases the stress that he experiences.
After Dexter was house trained he never had a single problem. This past trip to the groomers, he needed relief in the waiting area, in the grooming area, and in the parking lot. He was also going through either extreme stress or excitement while we were going there (constant yawning and looking around at high alert).
i think its time to mix it up and see if he has a more enjoyable experience with a smaller groomer.
Dexter's Dog Days 