The First Thing You Should Check For Before Using Any Pet Spa's Services

Many pets feel uneasy in grooming facilities because of the strange sounds, scents, and tools, but sometimes, the groomers are the culprits behind a pet's anxiety. Just as in any other service profession, not all groomers deliver the same level of care, and not all love their jobs. To put it bluntly, some are just bad groomers. The good news is that several signs can help you find the right groomer for your dog's needs. The first thing you should check for before using any pet spa's services is the groomer's certificate or certification.

A website is often the first place pet parents go to get information about a pet facility, such as its prices and services offered, but it certainly won't tell you everything. Stepping foot into the facility reveals so much more. So, before you make an appointment, stop in at the pet spa you're considering. Ask the groomer for proof of certification or accreditation if you don't see it displayed on the wall. While you're there, it doesn't hurt to consider other questions to ask the groomer before leaving your pet with them.

The U.S. doesn't require any specific certificate, certification, or license to offer professional pet grooming services. However, many professionals choose to attend a pet grooming school or pursue certification from organizations like the National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA), the International Professional Groomers, Inc. (IPG), or both. While the lack of a certificate or certification doesn't necessarily mean a groomer is subpar, earning one or both can speak volumes since they're optional, and any groomer who gets defensive when you ask about it probably isn't someone with whom you want to leave your pet.

When a pet groomer decides to earn a pet grooming certification, it sends a positive message to their clients about how they view pets. Many groomers complete some type of paid pet grooming school or program and receive a certificate of completion (which, remember, is not required). Others go the extra mile by pursuing industry-recognized credentials to meet professional standards.

A pet grooming certification with an organization like the American Kennel Club or NDGAA typically consists of coursework, exams, a membership with ongoing education, and other benefits. So, what's the difference between a grooming school certificate and a pet grooming certification? The schools essentially teach you how to groom, while a certification proves that you meet high grooming standards. Attending a school doesn't necessarily end with a board certification, so it's important to understand the difference and ask questions accordingly.

Certified groomers do more than just quick trims and baths. They put in extra hours to learn everything from breed-specific styles to techniques that keep pets safe, calm, and comfortable during grooming. It's their way of saying, "I care about making pets look and smell great using quality products while keeping them safe." Once that box is checked for you as the pet parent, the next big thing to worry about is whether to add on the blueberry facial or hydromassage bath for your pet. Now, speaking of baths, check out these 17 dogs rub a dub dub relaxin' in the tub.