Just like you would not typically open a phone book and randomly select a salon to trust in cutting your hair, you should do some research to ensure you select a great groomer for your beloved pet.

Finding the right groomer may take some time and effort, but in the long run it could ensure safety for your pet and stress prevention for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind when selecting the perfect groomer:

Talk to the groomers to make sure they are properly educated with regard to your animal’s grooming needs. A professional groomer should be able to easily respond to questions regarding when an animal’s nails should be trimmed and give information regarding typical shedding habits. If they cannot answer these questions, it is best to move on to another groomer. Make sure you go into the conversation with knowledge to test them and also be aware of any legal certifications they should have in order to be working as a groomer and ask if they have fulfilled the requirements.

Ask how long they have been in business and look them up online to see if you can find any company reviews.

Asking for a tour of the grooming facility is also a good way to know if this is a place you would like to trust in the care of your pet. Play close attention to whether it is chaotic and messy or organized and clean.

If your pet gets nervous when they are being groomed, you should ask the groomer how they plan to handle this.

Other things to ask and look into include:

• Pricing
• Types of products they use as gentle and natural are preferable

If you decide to test a place out, watch for your pet’s reactions after getting groomed. See if they are over-stressed or calm. Taking cues from your pet as well as trusting your gut are both extremely important in ensuring you make the right decision.