Dog Grooming Question?

Question

I have a 3 year old cocker spaniel. As a puppy I used to take him to Petsmart to get groomed. He was fine with it until one time they must have cut him or something after which he started growling at them. So I was told that they will no longer give him haircuts. 
I groomed him myself for a few years which was a pain. Then a neighboor who used to work for that Petsmart told me that she can groom him in her house as she is trying to get a grooming business going.  So my question is because grooming is stressful for my dog and it takes a few hours to do the haircut (I bring him to her freshly bathed and I have to be there the whole time holding him and assisting) do I need to tip the groomer in that situation? I am torn because since its in her house she sets the rate and gets 100% of it and since we skip the bath and blowdry and this is strictly a haircut and I assist.  So I am not sure what to do.

Anonymous · Accepted Answer

Well........... that is up to you.  Personally I have my own business & work alone & groom dogs straight thru.  For a cocker for a complete grooming it would only take me hour & quarter to half to do.  Without bathing & drying maybe 30-45min tops without any assistance.  I charge less than the last shops I was at & probably at least half of my clients tip me.  They tip me cuz they know the service & care their dog is getting compared to a shop. The other ones that don't tip each time almost all tip at the holidays.  I think you need to find a better groomer not one from Petsmart.  I get quite a few dogs that couldn't be groomed at_______ but I have no problem doing or only takes a few times for dog to adjust & be fine.  Since you are working also it would depend on th job she does. If your dog looks great & she still has to fight with him then tip(doesn't have to be cash).

Sara · Answer

Good question...  Is she charging you full price, the same price you paid at Petsmart?  If she doesn't have to bathe him, and you assist, I would think that you wouldn't have to tip her.  But to avoid any awkwardness, maybe you could bring some freshly baked goodies and coffee with you when you go.  Just part of some stuff that you bake for yourself/family, not something bought, cuz then it'll add up to the same price as a tip, lol.

Anonymous · Answer

Honestly if your dog is that difficult to groom and you need to assist, I would recommend a tip.

Hallie Y · Answer

I haven't had any problems with my cocker spaniel.

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Dog Grooming Question?

4 Answers