WHAT QUESTIONS TO ASK

WHAT QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE BOARDING YOUR PET OR LEAVING THEM TO BE GROOMED? As a professional I know that there are a lot of untrained groomer’s out there. I have seen the damage they can do to your pet’s coat and even injure your pet. I have been an eyewitness to the aggressive handling of some so-called professionals. And because I am now retired I make surprise visits to animal boarders, groomers and breeders in my area.
I go in as an interested person checking out their facility to get my pet groomed or boarded in the near future. Now you think they would want you to see their best. Clean rooms, cages, equipment and bath. But, believe me you would not believe what is behind closed doors.
As a customer seeking services no area except their storage area and private employee’s eating area should be off limits. You should be able to speak to the person that will be responsible for your pet’s care. See the grooming table and holding cages your pet will be secured in while waiting to be groomed. The bath area your pet will be bathed and what products they will be using on your pet.

• Get a referral.

Checking the newspapers and telephone book is ok if you are new to the area. But, asking around and getting word of mouth references is always the best way.

• Take your question list and checklist with you.

This will let the person showing you around that you only want the best for your pet.Here is a list that is good to take with you when seeking pet services. But in no why is it all-inclusive.

1. Is the front office clean and organized?
If it is not, it may means that they are not taking the business seriously or they are over booked and understaffed. Either way you may want to look elsewhere to make sure that you and your pet are treated like a VIP not a product.
2. Are they dressed professionally?
They do not need to look dirty or dress in jeans and T-shirts to service animals. A uniform is appropriate. They may have hair on it or even be wet, but this means they are doing their jobs. Most small family businesses are the best ones because they love animals or they would not be there. And if they don’t have a designated receptionist and that’s ok because that saves you money in the long run.
3. Ask to see where your pet will be groomed or boarded. Is the area or cage clean?
Look at any animals they have in cages. Do they have water, a clean floor and something to lie down on? If so, this shows that they stay on top of caring for their clients which are the animals. Most businesses that service animals consider the owner as the customer and the pet as their client.
4. Look at the clients in the waiting room.How many clients are waiting? Ask the clients if they have been there before and if so what did they like about the service there?
5. Ask to see the business licenses and diplomas.Look at the date they received them. Verify their driver’s licenses with the name on the official papers. I know that sounds extreme but would you do less for your child?
6. How did they handle your questioning? Were they courteous and attentive to you and your need for information? Were they eager to share their qualifications or indifferent, even irritated with your inquiry? This will tell you many things. Will they have patience with your pet? Do they have the necessary papers and qualifications to care for your pet? Do they want your business enough to go the extra mile?

Do your homework before intrusting your babies with strangers. Make sure they are who they clam to be.Thanks for your interest and stay tuned for more questions answered in the future.