Reasons to Thank Your Dog Groomer

There are plenty of reasons to appreciate your dog groomer, especially in a tight-knit community like Askov, MN, where pet care goes beyond basic grooming. Your local dog groomer doesn’t just keep your furry friend looking great—they also help maintain your pet’s overall health. Regular grooming prevents issues like matting, skin infections, and parasites, ensuring your dog stays comfortable year-round. Additionally, professional groomers often spot early signs of health problems such as lumps, infections, or dental issues, giving you a crucial head start on veterinary care. Groomers also patiently handle nervous or anxious pets, providing them with comfort and reducing their stress levels. Moreover, groomers save pet owners valuable time and effort, taking care of tasks that can be messy or challenging at home. Next time your dog returns fresh, happy, and healthy from the groomer, remember to show your appreciation for the indispensable role they play in your pet’s life.

Does your canine companion visit a salon when it’s time to get a makeover? Fido is most certainly in good company. According to Dogster statistics, up to one-third of pet owners take their dogs to the groomer. This article by a local Askov, MN veterinarian discusses several reasons to honor dog groomers.

Dog Groomers Provide Convenience

Most people visit groomers for the most common reason: convenience. You won’t have to deal with the mess and hassle of cleaning the bathroom, and you won’t have to rush your dog out the door for a dry-off walk in the summer or keep a wet dog off your furniture in the winter. You’ll simply drop off a dirty dog and pick him up a few hours later, soft and clean and ready for cuddles and belly rubs. (And bacon, of course.)

They Make Your Pet Fashion-Friendly 

Doggy haircuts should only be performed by a qualified and experienced individual. Groomers can  not only give Fido his glow-up, they can also assist you in selecting the finest cut for your canine companion, ensuring that he appears sleek and stylish. 

Pet Grooming Salons Are Safe

Going to the groomer with Fido may also be a safer option. If your dog is thin, old, sick, huge, or simply wiggly, he could get injured getting in or out of the bathtub. Some dogs are uneasy just being lifted up and held. Dog groomers have stations that are easier for larger dogs to enter and exit.

Trained Eyes

We cannot stress enough that a groomer should never be considered a substitute for adequate veterinary treatment. Having said that, many groomers have extensive expertise assessing and handling animals. That means they have keen vision and may be able to detect things like skin disorders, lesions, tumors, or swelling before they become apparent. This can be quite beneficial because it may alert you to an issue that needs to be addressed. The faster an issue is identified and treated, the better.

Medical Grooming Options

Medical grooming includes anal gland expression and ear hair trims. These are not essential for every dog. However, they should always be performed by professionals.

Expressing Your Groomer’s Appreciation

Groomer Appreciation Day falls on November 1st, yet there are many reasons to appreciate your dog groomer throughout the year. Simple acts of gratitude can make a significant impact. While tipping is a standard practice, consider going beyond the usual with thoughtful gifts like gift cards, certificates, or personalized goodie bags. Additionally, leaving a glowing review can greatly boost your groomer’s morale and business reputation. These gestures not only show your appreciation but also acknowledge their hard work and dedication to your pet’s care.

Reasons to Appreciate Your Dog Groomer in 2025

What training or certifications should groomers have?

Professional dog groomers typically hold certifications from recognized grooming academies or vocational programs, ensuring they develop the practical skills, technique, and knowledge to handle various dog breeds. They should be well-versed in canine anatomy and safety protocols, including safe handling and restraint practices. Accreditation from organizations such as the National Dog Groomers Association of America or International Professional Groomers confirms grooming standards, sanitary methods, and coat care proficiency. Ongoing education is also beneficial, as it helps groomers stay current with evolving industry techniques. This specialized preparation fosters a safe, stress-free experience for dogs and reassurance for pet owners.

What happens during a typical grooming appointment?

During a typical grooming appointment, dogs undergo a thorough bath, complete with shampooing and rinsing to remove dirt and debris. Trained professionals then brush and dry the coat, ensuring any tangles or mats are gently eliminated. Skilled groomers may also recommend a suitable haircut that complements the dog’s coat type and comfort needs. Nails are trimmed to a safe length, and ears may be cleaned or trimmed if needed. For those requiring it, anal gland expression is performed discreetly by trained staff. Throughout the process, careful attention is paid to any skin abnormalities or concerning changes that may warrant further evaluation.

Are there alternatives like self-wash stations for owners who prefer to be involved?

Yes, self-wash stations offer a practical, hands-on grooming alternative for owners who want direct involvement. They are typically found at grooming salons and pet supply centers, providing raised tubs, gentle water pressure options, and specialized shampoos. This approach allows pet owners to manage each step personally and maintain closer oversight of their dog’s comfort and safety. Self-wash services are often more affordable than full grooming appointments and can be less stressful for dogs that prefer familiar handling. They also help reduce the mess and hassles associated with bathing at home.

What tools and products are used during professional grooming?

Professional groomers typically use specialized tools and products to effectively maintain dogs’ health and appearance. Common grooming tools include clippers and scissors designed specifically for pet haircuts, grooming tables with adjustable heights for safe handling, and bathing stations suited to dogs of various sizes and mobility levels. High-quality shampoos, conditioners, and detanglers are used to cleanse and enhance coat health. Additionally, groomers employ medical grooming tools for procedures such as anal gland expression and ear hair trimming. These specialized instruments and grooming products ensure pets remain comfortable, stylish, and healthy throughout their grooming experience.

What information should owners provide about their dog before grooming?

Owners should inform groomers about their dog’s overall health, age, and temperament prior to grooming. It’s helpful to mention medical conditions, including skin sensitivities, allergies, arthritis, or recent injuries, which could impact comfort or safety during grooming. Groomers should also be notified about behavioral issues such as anxiety, aggression, or difficulty handling specific procedures. Additionally, communicating special grooming preferences, previous grooming experiences, and any necessary medical grooming procedures like anal gland expression or ear hair trimming ensures the groomer provides appropriate care tailored specifically to the dog’s individual needs.

Contact Our Askov, MN Grooming Kennel

Do you want to learn more about our grooming services? Is it time for your dog or cat to get a makeover? Please contact us, your neighborhood Askov, MN pet hospital, anytime. We are always happy to help!