Groomer Gets Tired Of People Asking Why Their Services Cost More Than A Hairdresser, Puts Hilarious Poster For Customers
Pet grooming is often looked at as an optional extra for many people, a luxury treatment for their pet who could quite easily get by with a dunk in the local river or lake. However, this really isn’t the case. Pet groomers offer several essential maintenance services for your pet’s good health, cleaning the eyes, ears and butts that your beloved companion might be unable, or unwilling, to look after themselves.
This tongue-in-cheek sign found at one pet groomers perfectly sums it up. Obviously frustrated and bored by the same questions about their fees, they put all the reasons why a pet groomer is a far more in-depth and physically demanding job than your average hairdresser. Perhaps after reading these, you’ll have a new-found appreciation for the job that they do!
Image credits: Aiko, Thomas & Juliette
# 10: Your hairdresser doesn’t wash and clean your rear end.
Often, your haircut will come with a shampoo and even a head massage too if you’re lucky. However, all pet grooming involves a full shampoo, trim and a butt clean, something which might be slightly awkward if your hairdresser attempted to do the same during your appointment.
# 9. You don’t go eight weeks without washing or brushing your hair.
Your average human will wash and brush their hair regularly, keeping it neat and clean and smelling good. This is not the case with most pets, although most cats do a great job. Dogs, however, can show up to the salon with a matted, tangled mess of muddy fur, which can take quite a long time to sort out.
# 8. Your hairdresser doesn’t give you a sanitary trim.
Hairdressers work on a small and localized area, sticking exclusively to the head. Your pubes are your problem. If your hairdresser had to head down to your delicate areas, scissors in hand, they’d probably ask for a little more compensation too.
# 7. Your hairdresser doesn’t clean your ears.
Again, this is your job, we have the tools and the ability to do it ourselves. But for our pets, ear cleaning is a very important service that needs patience and training, hence the small fee increase.
Image credits: Amy fricano
# 6. Your hairdresser doesn’t remove the boogers from your eyes.
Many breeds of dog have overactive tear ducts that cause mucus to build up, causing discomfort and risking infection. This gunk can often be pretty oozy and gross, but pet groomers are only happy to help your pup and take care of it for them.
# 5. You sit still for your hairdresser.
Imagine if, instead of sitting obediently in your swivelly chair, moving your head when prompted and serving up interesting conversation points, you went to the hairdresser and refused to sit still, wriggling about all over the salon and needing to be physically restrained? Welcome to the world of the pet groomer, where getting the subject to sit still is half the battle.
# 4. Your haircut doesn’t include a manicure or pedicure.
We go to a different salon and pay a separate fee to look after our nails on hands and feet. However, there are no dedicated dog ‘pawicurists;’ your pet groomer does the lot.
Image credits: Amy fricano
# 3. Your hairdresser only washes and cuts the hair on your head.
Again, pits, pubes, chest, toe and nipple hair are out-of-bounds to your hairdresser, what you do with them is your own business. Not for the pet groomer, who must deal with various growths and sproutings all over your dear pets’ body.
# 2. You don’t bite or scratch your hairdresser.
If you did decide to go in for a nibble on your hairdresser while they are at work, you’d quickly find yourself on the sex offender’s register. For pet groomers, however, this is a common occurrence and one of the hazards of the job. A bit of extra ‘danger’ money to take these risks into consideration is more than understandable if you ask me.
# 1. The likelihood of you pooping on your hairdresser is pretty slim.
Your hairdresser assumes that most of their clients would politely excuse themselves if nature were to come calling. Being interrupted on the job may be slightly annoying, particularly if you have a tight schedule to adhere to, but it’s nothing compared to trying to work in close contact with a poopy-pants.
Image credits: BarkTV
Copenhagen-based groomer Laura Gedgaudaite loves her job, but admits that it can be harder than most people think. “People often believe I spend most of my day cuddling with fluffy puppies, but that’s not true,” she told Bored Panda. “Some dog breeds have naturally long hair that grows non-stop, so it’s necessary to shampoo, brush, cut and trim their coats. The owners should brush these long-haired dogs daily, but they don’t always do that!”
“It takes a lot of energy to handle a dog if it’s not calm, especially if it’s a larger breed. But if they are aggressive or bite, I usually choose not to groom them and they have to go home. You have to be a strong person mentally to do this job, because the dogs can feel if you are afraid or angry, they feel the adrenaline in your body and respond to it. So eventually, you learn how to trust yourself more.”
“I’m happiest when I do a nice job making them look super cute clean and fresh again. And if they are matted, it’s gratifying to help them be free of that, because it irritates their poor skin. And, of course, I enjoy the owners’ reaction when they see their dog all trimmed and beautiful, and when they appreciate the job I do.”
Keeping your pup clean, fluffy and healthy can be a difficult and hazardous task, so be extra kind the next time you visit your friendly local pet groomer. They really are worth every penny!
Here’s how people responded to the hilarious list
713Kviews
Share on FacebookAlso..after working in a groom shop..I can add to this list. Some dogs bark non-stop from the time their dropped off until their owners return. Dogs pee on other dogs while waiting to be picked up..so we have to wash, dry and brush the messed up dog before the owner shows. Dogs will wiggle, do back flips and try their best to get off the groomers table because they don't like getting groomed. Groomers often bleed from the numerous dogs that bite them during the day. And customers range in size from teacup poodles to 150lb New Foundlands. On top of that groomers are on their feet all day, arched over and rarely get a chance to eat or go to the bathroom. So don't complain when you pay more than you do for your haircut...
Oh and BTW..groomers also do what's called a**l extractions. Dogs have a**l glands near their buttholes (for lack of a better term.) When those glands are full, they can be quite painful and uncomfortable for the dog..possibly hindering their ability to defecate. (It's also the reason why some dogs will scoot their butts on the floor.) Groomers relieve the pressure by squeezing the gland to pop it. The fluid that's released stinks to high heaven..the equivalent of standing next to several piles of dog feces. But groomers do this upon request and usually at no extra charge.
Load More Replies...Wait, they DON'T wash and clean your rear end? I need to have a chat to my barber...
I'm wondering how that conversation will go. Withnail: Hey man.. Barber: hey.. W: Dude, u ain't washing my butt no more B: Dude I was trying to wash your face and you started mooning.. W: ... B: ...
Load More Replies...I find it a little disrespecting to ask such things. It's pretty obvious more job is done at the dog groomer than hair dresser..
I would have no problem with this sign should I ever need a dog groomer
Load More Replies...Cats... I'm a groomer who does cats every now and then. If you get bit by a cat (while grooming) that's a hospital visit due to their toxic mouth.
I've had cellulitis 4 times and sepsis once which caused a 4 day hospital stay after being bitten by different one of my 6 indoor cats. Now if I get bitten, I go to urgent care and jokingly tell them to just give me 500mg of Cipro and send me on my way. Of course they check my hospital record first before they gIve it to me.. They usually say I should get rid of my "cat" then I have to explain that it's always been a different cat each time. If you get bitten by a cat, whether your own or a strange one, head to the ER right away. They won't judge you. Cellulitis and Sepsis can be fatal.
Load More Replies...Stick your fingers in a dog's arsehole one good time folks and $80 is suddenly a bargain.
To anyone who still thinks groomers charge too much I'd like to add one final note that this groomer left off: Your hairdresser doesn't have to drain your a**l glands; groomers do that for your dogs. Let that sink in.
I'm wondering why groomers are being bit when there are wraps and muzzles made to specifically prevent that from happening. I've never had a problem grooming any animal I've owned nor ones I have groomed for others and the muzzles do not get in the way of trimming if you know how to use it properly.
It makes absolute sense to use a soft muzzle with a dog you do not know, when performing a procedure that the animal will either barely tolerate or become agitated during.
Load More Replies...I disagree with number 5, at least in my husbands case. He fights, slouches, cries about the slight pain if I clipper his neckline too hard...I’ve been cutting his hair since 2002. I always tell him I will send him out to pay for his haircut and see how he acts there!
I've always taken my dogs to professional groomers and have never begrudged them a penny, I also tip well, except one time. Our groomer was in another city and the sheltie needed to be groomed and it could not wait. Called nearest groomer who was recommended, I asked her pointed questions to verify she could do a sheltie, dropped her off and husband picked her up on the way home, turns out she couldn't do a sheltie. The groom job was so bad that we had people asking us what breed the dog was! When our groomer returned and saw her, she actually cried. I know groomers work hard and go through a lot to do their job, but this woman should have been upfront and honest with us about never having groomed a sheltie before, sheltie are a particular breed that require an experienced groomer to do it correctly and I'm willing to pay for that skill set, anytime, anywhere.
Not only that, some customers do not keep up with their dogs' coats! They become matted and it becomes painful for the dogs to go thru grooming.
Anyone who even needs to ask this question either doesn't have a dog or is a brain-dead moron.
I've been grooming dogs for over 25 yrs, and this tongue in cheek list has been around at LEAST that long, lol😉 I used to have a copy in my lobby, to make people laugh, but also make them realize there's a lot more to grooming Fluffy, than the Super Cutz 5 minute clip you get for yourself!
I mean, I already understood based the fact that they have way more hair to cut.
After 30 minutes, my dog needs to be muzzled. So yes, this IS a hazzardous job and NO, I'm naver cheap about tipping. I'm 100% on the groomer's side on this one.
Why do people complain about the price of services OR tipping servers OR the cost of drinks in a bar OR the cost of a car wash or detail OR the price of a mani-pedi? I would guess most complainers haven't worked service jobs. STAY HOME AND DO IT YOURSELF. Same goes for people who gripe about teacher pay.
I gripe about teacher pay because they don't get paid enough.
Load More Replies...I have a mini schnauzer and a miniature poodle, both dogs with hair that keeps growing and growing. At first I took them to groomers, but the cost was just too much. Not arguing that it's not worth it, just that I couldn't afford it. I spent $50 once about 3 years ago on some grooming equipment and I've done it myself ever since. The dogs like it better and since they aren't show dogs it doesn't matter if the cut isn't perfect. It's made me feel closer to my dogs since I know how to care for them completely. And feeding pumpkin helps bulk the stool and so a**l gland expression isn't really needed.
I am not a high maintenance gal, therefore, neither are my pets. I get a basic trim for me about every 3-4 months (hate sitting still for it & wear my hair up most of the time). My dog? Forget it! A groomer is one luxury I will pay for! while i can/have done some basic trimming on him, I can't do his face. His nails are another story with his whining & tap-dancing, and don't get me started on the a**l glands...yep, I gladly suck up this expense! besides, he's such a wonderful companion, how could i not?
I have a Chinese Crested with hair only on the top of his head and legs. I've taken him to groomers even being what they call hairless. He hates being bathed and REALLY hates his nail trims. It takes me and my husband to cut his nail. He still wiggles so much I end up making him bleed. But he doesn't give the groomer or the vet any problem. So a groomer does it all including brushing all 4 of his remaining teeth. BTW, we still have to pay the full price at the groomer even though he requires less than other dogs. But it's worth it.
Load More Replies...I was considering a standard poodle for my next dog. I think I'll stick with my German Shepherds. We walk on enough sidewalks to keep nails down and I've never paid more than $25 for a bath.
Groomers are great. They study, they work hard, there is a LOT of physical work and frustrating behavioral issues. They deserve to make enough money to run a shop and to make a profit that provides a good living. OTOH, I work hard for my money too. And because I am not rich, the money spent on grooming will represent other things I will go without in order to pay that bill. With luck, it's something that I can let go without too much pain. An outfit, a meal out with my family, daily coffee made at home instead of at a convenience store. But, if I'm sacrificing or asking my family to sacrifice so Fido can be groomed and healthy, then I'm going to make sure that it's a necessary expense. I appreciate the humor in the sign and the education is necessary, but it's reasonable for me to be question something that is expensive. I might be more comfortable with a groomer who isn't rolling their eyes or being snippy with me because I ask for a justification of the price. Just saying....
What is very important here. Dogs DOES NOT need to be WASHED every 8 week it is unhealthy. Actually does not need to be washed at all. Ears also should not be cleaned ONLY when there is any medical issue with them. Dogs grooming is mostly a fashion and a way to make money. Ask your vet.
then there is the allergians in the air- most shops use air blowers to dry the dogs, or force dryers, which will blow out the undercoat of a dog.... sounds nice- no need to spend so many hours combing, right? except that this puts all that dander, hair and dirt in the AIR which we are breathing in as we work. I can't tell you the number of times i am brushing dog hair out of my eyes nose, and mouth!
My mom was a groomer for many years and I'd frequently help with the bathing part. I'd also do nail trims as well. (quick stop is your friend)
I already knew this because I consider what must be done, and recognize that I am paying someone to do what I am either too unwilling/lazy/unskilled to do. My groomer was surprised that I regularly tipped, until I told her, "I tip for my hairdresser to handle my hair...it seems only right to tip for grooming my precious fur-baby when she likes you enough to willing walk into your shop." (I took her to Petsmart before, and she hated what they did to her so much that she refused to walk into the store--which is why I found a different groomer.)
My first job was as a dog groomer. this is very relatable. dogs are wonderful, but a dog clip is so much more complex than a haircut in so so so many ways. pretty sure no hairdresser expresses a**l glands or has to wash away a vast number of worms crawling out of a dogs rear end, then not being able to dry them thoroughly because worms would go everywhere, and having to ring the owner and tell them, they are infested with worms. they are clean, clipped, groomed, but damp at their back end because of their infestation, so can you come and get them, and worm your damn dog
Okay, I totally understand and feel for the groomer. We do bathe and groom our dogs at home. We have a portable grooming table. We have Australian Shepherds and they shed - a lot. But the a**l sac needing extraction is very rare. It takes both my husband and I (or a friend) to keep the dog from just leaving the table when they get tired of the process. We don't use a clipper - tried it and it just didn't work out for us. My husband is very expert with the scissors and patiently watched an entire video on how to groom an Aussie. I got bored about 5 minutes in. We bought the appropriate tools for dealing with a double coat. (Fur close to the skin is softer and shorter than outer fur. Like many other double coat dogs - Nordic breeds, other herding dogs, etc.) We do rescue and have had dogs with skin problems - fungus, mange, infections. Groomers earn every penny they make.
My cat's groomer has been dealing with her for years now and even has arm guards for when she gets grumpy and tries biting her. I don't argue with her prices, I even give her a tip every time.
5 & 3 were the ones I thought of, but man, groomers should charge more!
It makes sense, of course, but I think all the separate entries about cleaning, washing and trimming the more private areas should have been combined into one entry.
So... are there any barbers willing to wipe a*s, trim pubes and take playful nibbles and licks for extra? XD
This is so true. Luckily I have wonderful customers who understand that I am working on their beloved dog or cat that can bite, poop, pee, throw up and move at any given moment. I have had past clients that decided to groom their own pets and by the next groom they were back and never complained again about prices. I wish people would understand there is much more to grooming than the hair cut. We need to kmiw some anatomy and to feel for any unusual lumps, bumps, ear and mouth issues and relay back ti owners. Also to recognize behavioral changes from one groom to another. We care for your dogs and cats and keep them safe. We are human and we love our job. I have no regrets about my career choice that I have enjoyed the last 22 years. So thank you to all my past and present customers.
I was expecting to just pay for a groomer when we needed to get our Cavalier King Charles spaniel shaved. Technically the breed doesn’t need it but in summer our individual gets so overheated and for some reason this means that he stops drinking. After forcing liquids in him and cooling him down various other ways my dad bought a electronic dog shaver (I don’t know the right term in English). I was unsure since this was our first dog but he pointed out that this was faster than going to groomer (true, small town and summer vacation time). I was like okay but if it fails we call an actual groomer and make appointment. So me and my dad gave it a try and while the result weren’t the prettiest our dog loved his new summer cut. We ended up continue doing this ourselves but mostly because our dog just loves getting shaved. He especially loves when we shave his belly. It’s great bonding time but still a lot of work and the cleaning afterwards :P
My roommate is a highly experienced hairdresser that owns a giant white long haired dog called a Great Pyrenees. She hates grooming her, it's so much more work! But hey, that dog probably has the cleanest fur ever and it doesn't require trimming.
Or maybe we shouldn't breed dogs who can't take care of their fur themselves because it is so long.
Afghans have long, silky hair only because people started brushing them every day, using human shampoo and conditioner on them,and keeping them as lapdogs instead of hunting dogs. Most grooming problems arise from the fact that we no longer use the breeds for what they were developed for.
Load More Replies...I groom my own, but I've defo had my dog s**t on me in protest! It is hard work, but I'm cheap. If I had the cash I defo would take them to the groomers
I 100% agree with this. My dog is a chore to cut and will pay more for their services. We even have to use "Zen" on my dog to keep him calm and only allow services on Sunday when the place is not as busy.
I always wonder, when it comes to both pet groomers and human hairdressers, what would people complain about more... the current usual system of standard price where the "easy" jobs have to compensate for the bigger challenges or if the professionals actually charged more or less based on how much trouble the job is.
If the hairdresser gives me a style that makes me look 30 years older again, it will definitely be the hairdresser!
Load More Replies...Also..after working in a groom shop..I can add to this list. Some dogs bark non-stop from the time their dropped off until their owners return. Dogs pee on other dogs while waiting to be picked up..so we have to wash, dry and brush the messed up dog before the owner shows. Dogs will wiggle, do back flips and try their best to get off the groomers table because they don't like getting groomed. Groomers often bleed from the numerous dogs that bite them during the day. And customers range in size from teacup poodles to 150lb New Foundlands. On top of that groomers are on their feet all day, arched over and rarely get a chance to eat or go to the bathroom. So don't complain when you pay more than you do for your haircut...
Oh and BTW..groomers also do what's called a**l extractions. Dogs have a**l glands near their buttholes (for lack of a better term.) When those glands are full, they can be quite painful and uncomfortable for the dog..possibly hindering their ability to defecate. (It's also the reason why some dogs will scoot their butts on the floor.) Groomers relieve the pressure by squeezing the gland to pop it. The fluid that's released stinks to high heaven..the equivalent of standing next to several piles of dog feces. But groomers do this upon request and usually at no extra charge.
Load More Replies...Wait, they DON'T wash and clean your rear end? I need to have a chat to my barber...
I'm wondering how that conversation will go. Withnail: Hey man.. Barber: hey.. W: Dude, u ain't washing my butt no more B: Dude I was trying to wash your face and you started mooning.. W: ... B: ...
Load More Replies...I find it a little disrespecting to ask such things. It's pretty obvious more job is done at the dog groomer than hair dresser..
I would have no problem with this sign should I ever need a dog groomer
Load More Replies...Cats... I'm a groomer who does cats every now and then. If you get bit by a cat (while grooming) that's a hospital visit due to their toxic mouth.
I've had cellulitis 4 times and sepsis once which caused a 4 day hospital stay after being bitten by different one of my 6 indoor cats. Now if I get bitten, I go to urgent care and jokingly tell them to just give me 500mg of Cipro and send me on my way. Of course they check my hospital record first before they gIve it to me.. They usually say I should get rid of my "cat" then I have to explain that it's always been a different cat each time. If you get bitten by a cat, whether your own or a strange one, head to the ER right away. They won't judge you. Cellulitis and Sepsis can be fatal.
Load More Replies...Stick your fingers in a dog's arsehole one good time folks and $80 is suddenly a bargain.
To anyone who still thinks groomers charge too much I'd like to add one final note that this groomer left off: Your hairdresser doesn't have to drain your a**l glands; groomers do that for your dogs. Let that sink in.
I'm wondering why groomers are being bit when there are wraps and muzzles made to specifically prevent that from happening. I've never had a problem grooming any animal I've owned nor ones I have groomed for others and the muzzles do not get in the way of trimming if you know how to use it properly.
It makes absolute sense to use a soft muzzle with a dog you do not know, when performing a procedure that the animal will either barely tolerate or become agitated during.
Load More Replies...I disagree with number 5, at least in my husbands case. He fights, slouches, cries about the slight pain if I clipper his neckline too hard...I’ve been cutting his hair since 2002. I always tell him I will send him out to pay for his haircut and see how he acts there!
I've always taken my dogs to professional groomers and have never begrudged them a penny, I also tip well, except one time. Our groomer was in another city and the sheltie needed to be groomed and it could not wait. Called nearest groomer who was recommended, I asked her pointed questions to verify she could do a sheltie, dropped her off and husband picked her up on the way home, turns out she couldn't do a sheltie. The groom job was so bad that we had people asking us what breed the dog was! When our groomer returned and saw her, she actually cried. I know groomers work hard and go through a lot to do their job, but this woman should have been upfront and honest with us about never having groomed a sheltie before, sheltie are a particular breed that require an experienced groomer to do it correctly and I'm willing to pay for that skill set, anytime, anywhere.
Not only that, some customers do not keep up with their dogs' coats! They become matted and it becomes painful for the dogs to go thru grooming.
Anyone who even needs to ask this question either doesn't have a dog or is a brain-dead moron.
I've been grooming dogs for over 25 yrs, and this tongue in cheek list has been around at LEAST that long, lol😉 I used to have a copy in my lobby, to make people laugh, but also make them realize there's a lot more to grooming Fluffy, than the Super Cutz 5 minute clip you get for yourself!
I mean, I already understood based the fact that they have way more hair to cut.
After 30 minutes, my dog needs to be muzzled. So yes, this IS a hazzardous job and NO, I'm naver cheap about tipping. I'm 100% on the groomer's side on this one.
Why do people complain about the price of services OR tipping servers OR the cost of drinks in a bar OR the cost of a car wash or detail OR the price of a mani-pedi? I would guess most complainers haven't worked service jobs. STAY HOME AND DO IT YOURSELF. Same goes for people who gripe about teacher pay.
I gripe about teacher pay because they don't get paid enough.
Load More Replies...I have a mini schnauzer and a miniature poodle, both dogs with hair that keeps growing and growing. At first I took them to groomers, but the cost was just too much. Not arguing that it's not worth it, just that I couldn't afford it. I spent $50 once about 3 years ago on some grooming equipment and I've done it myself ever since. The dogs like it better and since they aren't show dogs it doesn't matter if the cut isn't perfect. It's made me feel closer to my dogs since I know how to care for them completely. And feeding pumpkin helps bulk the stool and so a**l gland expression isn't really needed.
I am not a high maintenance gal, therefore, neither are my pets. I get a basic trim for me about every 3-4 months (hate sitting still for it & wear my hair up most of the time). My dog? Forget it! A groomer is one luxury I will pay for! while i can/have done some basic trimming on him, I can't do his face. His nails are another story with his whining & tap-dancing, and don't get me started on the a**l glands...yep, I gladly suck up this expense! besides, he's such a wonderful companion, how could i not?
I have a Chinese Crested with hair only on the top of his head and legs. I've taken him to groomers even being what they call hairless. He hates being bathed and REALLY hates his nail trims. It takes me and my husband to cut his nail. He still wiggles so much I end up making him bleed. But he doesn't give the groomer or the vet any problem. So a groomer does it all including brushing all 4 of his remaining teeth. BTW, we still have to pay the full price at the groomer even though he requires less than other dogs. But it's worth it.
Load More Replies...I was considering a standard poodle for my next dog. I think I'll stick with my German Shepherds. We walk on enough sidewalks to keep nails down and I've never paid more than $25 for a bath.
Groomers are great. They study, they work hard, there is a LOT of physical work and frustrating behavioral issues. They deserve to make enough money to run a shop and to make a profit that provides a good living. OTOH, I work hard for my money too. And because I am not rich, the money spent on grooming will represent other things I will go without in order to pay that bill. With luck, it's something that I can let go without too much pain. An outfit, a meal out with my family, daily coffee made at home instead of at a convenience store. But, if I'm sacrificing or asking my family to sacrifice so Fido can be groomed and healthy, then I'm going to make sure that it's a necessary expense. I appreciate the humor in the sign and the education is necessary, but it's reasonable for me to be question something that is expensive. I might be more comfortable with a groomer who isn't rolling their eyes or being snippy with me because I ask for a justification of the price. Just saying....
What is very important here. Dogs DOES NOT need to be WASHED every 8 week it is unhealthy. Actually does not need to be washed at all. Ears also should not be cleaned ONLY when there is any medical issue with them. Dogs grooming is mostly a fashion and a way to make money. Ask your vet.
then there is the allergians in the air- most shops use air blowers to dry the dogs, or force dryers, which will blow out the undercoat of a dog.... sounds nice- no need to spend so many hours combing, right? except that this puts all that dander, hair and dirt in the AIR which we are breathing in as we work. I can't tell you the number of times i am brushing dog hair out of my eyes nose, and mouth!
My mom was a groomer for many years and I'd frequently help with the bathing part. I'd also do nail trims as well. (quick stop is your friend)
I already knew this because I consider what must be done, and recognize that I am paying someone to do what I am either too unwilling/lazy/unskilled to do. My groomer was surprised that I regularly tipped, until I told her, "I tip for my hairdresser to handle my hair...it seems only right to tip for grooming my precious fur-baby when she likes you enough to willing walk into your shop." (I took her to Petsmart before, and she hated what they did to her so much that she refused to walk into the store--which is why I found a different groomer.)
My first job was as a dog groomer. this is very relatable. dogs are wonderful, but a dog clip is so much more complex than a haircut in so so so many ways. pretty sure no hairdresser expresses a**l glands or has to wash away a vast number of worms crawling out of a dogs rear end, then not being able to dry them thoroughly because worms would go everywhere, and having to ring the owner and tell them, they are infested with worms. they are clean, clipped, groomed, but damp at their back end because of their infestation, so can you come and get them, and worm your damn dog
Okay, I totally understand and feel for the groomer. We do bathe and groom our dogs at home. We have a portable grooming table. We have Australian Shepherds and they shed - a lot. But the a**l sac needing extraction is very rare. It takes both my husband and I (or a friend) to keep the dog from just leaving the table when they get tired of the process. We don't use a clipper - tried it and it just didn't work out for us. My husband is very expert with the scissors and patiently watched an entire video on how to groom an Aussie. I got bored about 5 minutes in. We bought the appropriate tools for dealing with a double coat. (Fur close to the skin is softer and shorter than outer fur. Like many other double coat dogs - Nordic breeds, other herding dogs, etc.) We do rescue and have had dogs with skin problems - fungus, mange, infections. Groomers earn every penny they make.
My cat's groomer has been dealing with her for years now and even has arm guards for when she gets grumpy and tries biting her. I don't argue with her prices, I even give her a tip every time.
5 & 3 were the ones I thought of, but man, groomers should charge more!
It makes sense, of course, but I think all the separate entries about cleaning, washing and trimming the more private areas should have been combined into one entry.
So... are there any barbers willing to wipe a*s, trim pubes and take playful nibbles and licks for extra? XD
This is so true. Luckily I have wonderful customers who understand that I am working on their beloved dog or cat that can bite, poop, pee, throw up and move at any given moment. I have had past clients that decided to groom their own pets and by the next groom they were back and never complained again about prices. I wish people would understand there is much more to grooming than the hair cut. We need to kmiw some anatomy and to feel for any unusual lumps, bumps, ear and mouth issues and relay back ti owners. Also to recognize behavioral changes from one groom to another. We care for your dogs and cats and keep them safe. We are human and we love our job. I have no regrets about my career choice that I have enjoyed the last 22 years. So thank you to all my past and present customers.
I was expecting to just pay for a groomer when we needed to get our Cavalier King Charles spaniel shaved. Technically the breed doesn’t need it but in summer our individual gets so overheated and for some reason this means that he stops drinking. After forcing liquids in him and cooling him down various other ways my dad bought a electronic dog shaver (I don’t know the right term in English). I was unsure since this was our first dog but he pointed out that this was faster than going to groomer (true, small town and summer vacation time). I was like okay but if it fails we call an actual groomer and make appointment. So me and my dad gave it a try and while the result weren’t the prettiest our dog loved his new summer cut. We ended up continue doing this ourselves but mostly because our dog just loves getting shaved. He especially loves when we shave his belly. It’s great bonding time but still a lot of work and the cleaning afterwards :P
My roommate is a highly experienced hairdresser that owns a giant white long haired dog called a Great Pyrenees. She hates grooming her, it's so much more work! But hey, that dog probably has the cleanest fur ever and it doesn't require trimming.
Or maybe we shouldn't breed dogs who can't take care of their fur themselves because it is so long.
Afghans have long, silky hair only because people started brushing them every day, using human shampoo and conditioner on them,and keeping them as lapdogs instead of hunting dogs. Most grooming problems arise from the fact that we no longer use the breeds for what they were developed for.
Load More Replies...I groom my own, but I've defo had my dog s**t on me in protest! It is hard work, but I'm cheap. If I had the cash I defo would take them to the groomers
I 100% agree with this. My dog is a chore to cut and will pay more for their services. We even have to use "Zen" on my dog to keep him calm and only allow services on Sunday when the place is not as busy.
I always wonder, when it comes to both pet groomers and human hairdressers, what would people complain about more... the current usual system of standard price where the "easy" jobs have to compensate for the bigger challenges or if the professionals actually charged more or less based on how much trouble the job is.
If the hairdresser gives me a style that makes me look 30 years older again, it will definitely be the hairdresser!
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