When it comes time to groom your pet, you may find that the task is better left to professionals. Maybe your “furbaby” has gotten too big for you to wrestle into the tub, maybe with so many projects and tasks on your to do list you just can’t find the time or perhaps you’re looking for a specific breed cut that will enhance your furry friend’s lovely features!

Taking your pet to a professional groomer is a great idea in theory, since they should be much more qualified to tend to your furry pal’s beauty needs than you are. However, that may not always be the case. Peggy Harris, certification coordinator for the National Dog Groomers Association of America, told WebMD that, because there are currently no government regulations regarding pet grooming, anyone can pick up a pair of clippers and claim to be a qualified groomer.

So, before you take your beloved pet to the beauty shop, make sure you’re taking it somewhere safe and trustworthy. If you’re not sure how to find the professional you deserve, follow these steps to help you find the perfect pet groomer.

Ask around

Like any business, word of mouth goes a long way. Ask friends, family, neighbors, or your veterinarian, if they have any groomer recommendations. They’ll be more than glad to share their knowledge with you, especially if they had a bad experience.

However, according to PetMD, some veterinarian offices have a policy that prevents them from referring clients to any particular groomer. That’s okay. Instead, you could ask your vet, if he or she has ever had to treat injuries that resulted from a certain groomer, such as cuts or abrasions. Or, you could ask if any other clients have complained about a groomer.

Look for Qualifications

Even though professional groomers aren’t required to get certifications, the more reliable ones probably will anyway. Harris went on to tell WebMD that people who are really interested in making a career out of pet grooming have probably taken steps to seek membership at an organization like hers, have taken the time to go to conferences and are taking additional classes to for continuing education and have developed a portfolio.

When entering a grooming shop ask for the master groomer. This person will know safety procedures, health and hygiene practices in the shop, how to handle pesticides, the anatomy of the dog, proper dog handling techniques, and basic first aid. Harris says, “It’s so much more than just how to do a certain trim or cut.”

Interview the Groomer

When you settle on a groomer, PetMD recommends asking them a few questions before you agree to use their services. Don’t put them through the ringer, necessarily, but do ask them about their qualifications (if they have any), how long they’ve been grooming, if they’re a member of a grooming organization, if they have experience with your pet’s breed, etc. Get a good feel for the groomer and go with your gut. Ask them what their safety procedures are, cleaning protocols, how the dogs are kept in a safe and clean environment is the most important step in keeping your pet healthy and happy.

Make Sure the Groomer Interviews You

Along the same lines, take note of whether or not the groomer asks you questions. According to the College of Veterinarian Medicine at the University of Tennessee, the grooming process should begin with a consultation in which the groomer asks you all about your pet’s medical history, temperament, and styling objectives. This indicates that the groomer is genuinely concerned about providing the best possible care for your pet.

Take Note of Your Surroundings

Finally, take a look around the facility. The ASPCA suggests making sure the shop is clean and that the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Also, observe how they handle the animals. Are they gentle and kind? Harris also suggested making sure there are no fleas in the facility. To do this, wear white shoes and socks. If there are fleas, they’ll probably jump up around your ankles. It is also perfectly ok to ask the groomer for a tour of the facility. Inspect the bath tube (is there hair in the drain and mold on the the mat), are the blowers clean and free from hair clumps, are there crates that will house your pet, are they clean and free of dirt, grime or hair? Are there water bowls and opportunities for your pet to relieve themselves while at the grooming appointment? How are the grooming tools handled and stored properly or are they just laying around? Are the tools cleaned properly between dogs or just laying around?

When it comes to choosing a professional groomer, be picky. It’s not all about a pretty hair cut. You want your pet’s grooming experience to be as stress-free and as safe as possible, and only a credible groomer will be able to provide that. If your dog comes home stressed or anxious, if they are displaying odd behaviors like excessive panting, have diarrhea, drink an excessive amount of water or act out of character when it is time to take them to their grooming appointment these could all be signs that your dog is trying to tell you something about their experience. Listen to your “furbaby” and trust them.

Adapted from dogreference.com