Your guide to pet grooming services

Grooming is an essential part of pet care. From bathing and brushing to nail trimming and haircuts, grooming helps to keep your dog or cat healthy, looking good and feeling fine. When grooming your pet at home feels too difficult or time-consuming, you can always turn to professional grooming services for help.

Read on to learn more about how to choose a groomer, how to prepare your pet, and the different types of grooming services available.

Choosing a groomer

When it's time for your dog or cat to visit a groomer, you want the assurance that the experience will be enjoyable and beneficial for your pet. At PetSmart, we're committed to providing top-notch grooming services that ensure both safety and comfort. Here’s how to make sure your grooming experience at PetSmart meets all your expectations.

How are PetSmart’s groomers trained? Our groomers are highly trained professionals who undergo rigorous safety certification and hands-on grooming instruction. Each stylist at our Grooming Academy completes over 800 hours of training, including specialized care for a wide variety of breeds. We emphasize ongoing education to ensure our stylists are versed in the latest grooming techniques and styles.
Experience our salon firsthand: We encourage pet parents to visit our salons before booking an appointment. This allows you to see firsthand how our groomers interact with both pets and pet parents, and observe our clean and welcoming facilities. During your visit, feel free to ask our salon associates any questions about the grooming process, our policies and the products we use.
Read reviews and ask for recommendations: Check online reviews to hear directly from other pet parents about their experiences with our grooming services. We also recommend asking for personal referrals from family, friends or your veterinarian.
Understand our safety and comfort policies: At PetSmart, we prioritize the health and safety of all pets in our care. This includes adhering to strict sanitation protocols, using only pet-safe products, and employing digital tools for convenient and safe check-ins. Our salons are designed to make every pet’s visit as stress-free and comfortable as possible.
Inquire about custom services: Our groomers are equipped to tailor their services to the unique needs of your pet. Whether it’s a specific haircut, skin care treatment or handling special behavioral needs, our team is ready to accommodate. We offer consultations to discuss your pet’s needs in detail, ensuring they receive the best possible care.

Preparing your pet for grooming services.

Trips to the groomer can cause anxiety for some dogs and cats. These suggestions can help prepare your furry friends and make the grooming process smoother for them – and for you.

Familiarize your pet with grooming motions: Grooming involves a lot of touching and handling in areas that can be sensitive for dogs and cats. Before you visit a groomer for the first time, it’s helpful to regularly handle your pet’s paws, ears, face, and tail to get them used to the sensation.
Brush your pet regularly: Regular brushing can help reduce shedding and matting, which will make the grooming process easier on your pet.
Make grooming a happy occasion: Use treats and positive reinforcement to create positive associations with brushing, bathing, and nail trimming.
Burn off some energy: A walk or a play session before grooming will expend excess energy, helping your pet stay calmer during the grooming process.

Types of grooming services.

Most dog or cat grooming services offer some collection of these services.

Bathing includes pet specific shampoo like dog shampoo, conditioning and drying.
Brushing removes loose hair and prevents matting.
Nail trimming keeps nails at a healthy length to prevent injury and overgrowth.
Ear cleaning helps prevent infections and removes wax buildup.
Teeth brushing helps prevent buildup of tartar and plaque and promotes fresh breath.
Haircuts prevent matting and promote a healthy coat.
De-shedding removes excess undercoat and helps minimize shedding at home.
Skin treatments address specific issues like dryness, itching, or allergies.
Flea & tick treatments help prevent bites and infestations.
Anal gland expression prevents discomfort and potential infections

What are the benefits of grooming services?

Regular grooming offers several key benefits for your pet.

Better hygiene: Regular grooming reduces the risk of infections and unpleasant orders by keeping your pet clean.
Greater comfort: Grooming can remove mats and tangles in your pet’s hair or fur that may cause pain and discomfort.
Relationship Building: Establishing a relationship with a trained groomer can be helpful to have additional eyes on your pet to look to ensure that your pet is visibly healthy and free of skin issues, ear troubles or parasites.
Attractive appearance: Grooming helps to keep your pet looking its best.

FAQs.

How much do most dog groomers charge?

The cost of dog grooming varies based on factors such as the size of the dog, the type of grooming services, and where the salon is located. On average, dog grooming can range from $30 to $150 or more per session. Specialized services or breed-specific grooming may cost more.

What services do pet groomers offer?

Pet grooming services typically include bathing, brushing, haircuts, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing. Advanced services may include de-shedding treatments, skin treatments, anal gland expression, and flea and tick treatments.

Is dog grooming traumatic for dogs?

Dog grooming can be stressful for some dogs. Proper preparation, positive reinforcement, and choosing a groomer experienced in handling anxious pets can significantly reduce your pup’s stress and make the experience more pleasant. Some pets who experience stress during grooming have options that allow the services to done in a timely manner. On rare occasions, some pets may require sedations, which should only be done at a veterinary clinic with medical supervision.

How do I find dog grooming near me or cat grooming near me?

To find a reputable groomer, the best place to start is with friends and family who also use grooming services. Check out your neighborhood PetSmart for grooming services for your pet near you and you can book an appointment online today. Your vet may also be a reliable source of contact for grooming services.

Related Articles

Many PetSmart stores offer a broad range of grooming services as well as training classes, daycare and vet services. Consult with your local store to learn more.

Need other cat or dog grooming supplies while you’re shopping for grooming services? PetSmart carries dog shampoo, cat nail clippers, pet brushes and much more.

PetSmart also offers convenient shopping with Curbside Pickup or in-store pickup. Need something today? We have select items available for Same-Day Delivery in most areas powered by DoorDash. For items you purchase frequently, PetSmart Autoship that automatically delivers the items you want to your door as often as you’d like. Check the website to see which items are eligible.

Information in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure your pet and is not a substitute for veterinary care provided by a licensed veterinarian. For any medical or health-related advice concerning the care and treatment of your pet, contact your veterinarian.