6 Things Every Pet Parent Should Know
Dog Grooming isn’t just about making your dog look good — it’s about their health, comfort, and well-being. A great grooming experience can leave your pup feeling clean, confident, and happy. A bad one? It can cause stress, injury, or long-term anxiety.
So how do you know if a groomer is the right fit for your dog? As professionals in the pet care industry, we’ve put together a list of what every dog owner should look for before scheduling that next spa day.
1. Grooming Experience and Training
Not all dog groomers are created equal. Look for someone who’s not just good with dogs, but professionally trained in breed-specific grooming techniques, coat types, and canine anatomy.
Ask questions like:
- How long have they been grooming?
- Are they certified by a reputable grooming school or organization?
- Do they have experience with your dog’s breed or coat type?
At Red Fern Pet Lodge, our groomers are highly trained and continue their education in the latest techniques and safety protocols.
2. Comfort and Handling Skills
A good groomer isn’t just skilled with scissors — they’re skilled with dogs. The best groomers know how to make even the most nervous pets feel safe and respected.
Observe how the groomer interacts with your dog during the first visit or meet-and-greet. Are they calm, patient, and confident? Do they read your dog’s body language and adjust accordingly?
Grooming is a vulnerable experience for a dog. The right groomer creates a calm, positive environment from start to finish.3
3. Clean and Safe Facility
The grooming space should be clean, organized, and smell fresh — not like wet dogs and chemicals. Look for proper sanitation practices, clean tables and tubs, and safety tools like grooming restraints used gently and appropriately.
Also ask:
- Are tools disinfected between pets?
- Are pets crated safely when not being groomed?
- Is the space temperature-controlled?
At Red Fern, our grooming salon is fully transparent — we welcome you to tour it any time.
4. Clear Communication
A great groomer will listen to your needs and clearly explain how they’ll care for your dog. They’ll ask about your dog’s medical history, sensitivities, behavior issues, and grooming preferences.
After the session, they should share observations about your dog’s coat, skin, ears, or any concerns they noticed. This isn’t just nice — it’s essential.
Communication is the foundation of trust. You should feel heard and your dog’s wellness should always be top of mind.
5. Grooming Products and Equipment
Ask what kind of shampoos, conditioners, and tools the groomer uses. A reputable groomer should offer hypoallergenic, breed-appropriate, and skin-sensitive products — especially for pets with allergies or sensitivities.
And they should have quality equipment designed to ensure both safety and comfort (i.e., adjustable grooming tables, non-slip mats, and comfortable accommodations).
Red Fern uses premium, pet-safe products — because your dog deserves a true spa-quality experience.
6. Reputation and Reviews
Don’t underestimate word of mouth. Look at online reviews, ask other pet parents, and pay attention to how the staff and environment make you feel. Consistent positive feedback and a loyal client base are strong indicators of quality.
Also, notice how the dogs look after their appointments. Happy dogs + consistent quality = a groomer worth sticking with.
Final Thoughts
Grooming should never be an afterthought. It’s a regular part of your dog’s wellness routine, and who you trust to provide that care matters.
If you’re looking for a grooming experience rooted in professionalism, compassion, and quality, we invite you to visit Red Fern Pet Lodge. Whether it’s a routine bath or a breed-specific cut, we treat every grooming session like a chance to pamper your pup and keep them looking and feeling their best.
Because your dog deserves more than a haircut — they deserve care.
– Dick Andrews, Proud Owner of Red Fern Pet Lodge & Certified Professional Animal Care Operator
