Grooming” is a broad term. For some dogs—say, a Lab—grooming means a bath, a quick brushing, ear cleaning, and nail clipping; in and out. For others—a Maltese, say, or an Old English sheepdog—going to the groomer can be akin to going to the electric chair. It’s an hours-long affair that involves bathing, combing, brushing, trimming, dematting, shaping, pedicure, and ear cleaning, so, for these dogs, the “G” word must be spelled, said in pig Latin or not uttered at all. There are many grooming options in Westchester, and the service is available at grooming boutiques, vet clinics, daycare facilities, and even some pet-supply stores. There are mobile groomers who make house calls, too. How to choose?
Word of Mouth. Ask your friends or vet for recommendations. What do they like about a particular groomer?
Education & Experience. What kind of training has the groomer had? How long has he or she been in business?
Cleanliness & Safety. How is the facility cleaned? Will the dog be attended while he’s drying? Does the groomer use a hand dryer or a cage dryer (not preferable)? Will your dog be tethered or muzzled?
Watch a Grooming Session. A good groomer will have nothing to hide. If you don’t like what you see, leave.
What about cats?
Cats groom themselves. But feline pampering is available. Since a room full of barking dogs is a stressful place for cats, some salons, including Pawfection Pet Grooming and Shampooch, have special “cat only” hours or days, where our feline friends can get their claws and coats tended to in peace.
A Sampling of Groomers
Bark Bathe & Beyond (mobile groomer)
Millwood
914.450.6573
www.barkbathebeyond.com
Pawfection Pet Grooming
Bedford Hills
914.242.8422
Shampooch Dog Salon & Spa
Mamaroneck
914.698.2468
shampoochdogsalon.com
Best Paw Forward
Mount Vernon
914.667.2873
(Dogs only)
