Ask the Groomer

Is The FURminator For Real? Quick Product Review

2010-05-02T23:27:00.001-04:00

Ever heard of the FURminator?
It's a vaguely comb-like metal piece attached to an easy-grip handle. FURminator is actually a brand name.

What does the FURminator do for your pet?
The FURminator is a type of brushing tool that will help remove dead hair from your dog or cat. More hair removed by you means less hair on the floor or your clothing.

You'll notice a great difference on Shelties, Golden Retrievers, and any other dog that tends to get those wispy, scraggly dead hairs that look messy.

How does it work?
The FURminator uses an old trip of dog groomers known as "carding". Groomers typically use one of the blades for their clippers to comb through a dog's coat and remove dead hair. The process can be time-consuming and strains the wrist. The FURminator puts that same groomer's blade on a handy stick and served the public.

Will it hurt him/her?
While proper use does not hurt your pet, brushing too firmly or too often in one spot will irritate the skin. There is a blade component to this tool, but it is a safer one.

Does it really reduce shedding?
It won't technically make your dog shed less, but it will remove a lot of the dead coat before it drops off your dog and onto the floor.

What DOESN'T it do?
It will not remove knots or matts from your dog's coat. It will not remove the dense undercoat from thick-coated breeds like Huskies or German Shepherds.

Should I get one?
This brush is best used as part of a good grooming routine, not as a shortcut to good doggy hygiene. I also recommend regular bathing, adequate diet, and other good maintenance to help reduce shedding. Using a Zoom Groom (a type of rubber doggy/kitty brush) may also be effective for short-haired breeds.

Bottom line:
For many dogs and cats, you'll definitely remove a lot of hair with a FURminator. Just be careful and don't press too hard.

11 Ways to Get a Discount From Your Dog Groomer

2010-04-21T00:33:00.000-04:00

In this recession, ask your groomer for a discount in these situations and you just might get it! ALWAYS negotiate BEFORE services are completed.

You Could Save Some - get this type of discount:

Slow day special: Offer to come in on the least busy day of the week
On-call: If you work from home (or have time off), offer to be on-call. Drop off your dog when convenient for them
Too busy convenience fee: If the groomer says they’ll need more time today when dropping off your dog, offer to reschedule or ask for a better dog shampoo free.
Prepaid: Pay for 2 dog grooming services today. Get a signed receipt that explains you’ve prepaid!
Combine dog services: If your dog gets two or more grooming services in one visit
Grooming Treat Package: If you pay for grooming and a pet toy/supplies/treats in the same visit
Frequent Grooming Rewards: If you pay for services (bath and/or grooming) every 4 weeks or less

You Could Save Lots - get this type of discount:

Essentials Only: Ask your groomer to help you reduce prices by getting only what your dog really needs every-other time. Treat your favorite family member half the time, save money the other half.
No Toothbrushing: None ever at the groomer! One treatment once every 6 weeks is not effective
Buy in bulk: Multi-dog discounts for bigger families
Refer a Friend: They may be willing to give your dog a free groom if you can get 1 or 2 new dogs to come in for an appointment. Ask your friends. Carry groomer’s business card with you wherever you parade your dog’s new hairdo. Say "tell the groomer that I sent you!"

DON’T try to get a discount by asking letting your dog go home wet: your dog might smell gross if not properly dried
DON'T insult the groomer by trying to negotiate a lower price based on the quality of the grooming unless there were major issues with the service - and that means you should just look for a new groomer.

Also try these tips with your pet trainer, pet hotel, vet, dog day care, or other professional dog and cat service providers.

4 Ways to Reduce Muddy Dog Paws

2010-04-18T17:01:00.000-04:00

April Shower brings May’s dirty carpets!

Is your dog’s middle name "Mud"?

Remember P.A.W.S. to stop your puppy’s muddy paws from dirtying your carpets and home

PAW HAIR
Ask your groomer to pay special attention to this issue. Shave hair between your dog’s foot pads as short as possible. Long hair flows out between the toes and grabs dirt, then swishes it around your floor like a dirty mop. A good groomer should be shaving this hair already, but better request it for best results. Don’t forget to check for nicks later. Also consider an overall shorter haircut for the muddy season, or at least trim leg/paw hair shorter. Trim nails as short as possible; ask for nail-grinding to smooth our rough surfaces that might hold dirt.

ALTER ENVIRONMENT

Look for an alternate walking route, or changes to your yard, that would reduce puppy’s contact with mud. Cross the street before sidewalk puddles, try a slightly different route (turn left instead of right?), or check your local bike paths to see if dogs are allowed. If your yard is muddy, a little research may greatly improve your yard. Solutions I found included healthier grass and covering high-traffic areas with pea gravel to help drainage.

WASH FAST
I know it’s a pain, but wash Fido’s feet before he gets into prettier areas of the house.
1) Put a large, absorbent towel or mat just inside the doorway before you leave for the walk. Leave a second towel and a tall cup of water within reach from the doorway.
2) Stop your dog on the towel when you come back. If needed, lock the door and tie your smaller dog’s leash to the handle. Dunk and swish pup’s first paw into the cup, then use the towel to dry it.
3) Repeat.

SCRUB EARLY
Clean any offensive dirty spots as soon as you notice them, but let caked-on mud dry first. Use a stiff-bristled brush to comb away the chunks. Commercial and homemade cleaning combinations are easy to find and vary by carpet type, but simple warm water may work for many.

What about products?
Some dogs tolerate boots or a product like the Paw Plunger (a special cup designed to wash and scrub dog’s feet). Puppy wipes (look for the kind without alcohol) can also help if you need a quick surface cleaning. Dog boots or shoes may eliminate the need for cleaning at all - if your dog will keep them on. You may be out of luck with products if your dog doesn't like his feet touched.

Good luck with those carpets!

3 Parts to Picking A Great Dog Boarding Kennel

2010-03-29T00:34:00.000-04:00

How to Pick A Kennel For Your Dog's Vacation

HARD: Not feeling guilty leaving your furry family member behind while you're on vacation.
HARD: Finding a neighbor you trust enough to love Max unconditionally AND not raid the cookie jar.
NOT SO HARD: Finding the right place to care for your dog until you return.

1: Ask and you shall receive
Tap into friends, vets, animal shelters, pet shops, and even other dog-walking strangers for information. Ask:
A) what local kennel they've used, and if they were satisfied - why/why not?
B) if they've heard any good things about other places
C) if there are any places they think you should avoid

2: Check your facts
Call prospective kennels. Ask if:
A) they have a license or certificate showing that they meet state boarding standards (differs by state)
B) a vet is on-site, or distance to the nearest vet
C) proof of current vaccinations, including Bordetella, is required ("No" is a red-flag!)
D) dogs are monitored continuously, or if the building is locked at night and left unattended
E) each dog gets their own kennel area, and if you can bring your dog's own food (less stress for pup)
F) the dogs have scheduled times for walks or running to get exercise

3: Visit before you book
Visit (unannounced if possible) to check conditions of the animals there. Be sure to check:
A) cleanliness (including poop removal), ventilation, and odors - because your dog will come home smelling just like the facility
B) the dogs' attitudes. Are they relaxed? Excited? Stressed? Restless?
C) for the smell of cigarette smoke. Is anyone smoking near the dogs' crates?
D) for warning signs. Do you see anything that makes you nervous? Think it through carefully.

If you're nervous, do an overnight trial before the big trip. Dogs who are overly anxious or aggressive may be not do well when boarding. Leave enough time to test a new one if the kennel is the issue.

You and your dog will both be SO happy you used these 3 parts to find the perfect match!

How to Remove Red Tear Stains From A White Dog

2009-09-09T23:23:00.004-04:00

Tear-stains are reddish-brown stains that develop below the eyes of white or light-colored dogs. Not just cosmetic, the area affected by tear-stains can harbor foul-smelling bacteria. The constant moisture can cause redness/irritation and pain for your dog. Most treatments take some time to have a noticeable improvement, so remember to try something new for at least a month before ditching it.

The Real Villain
Opinions vary greatly on the cause of tear-stains. They're generally caused by infection, improperly formed tear ducts, diet, water quality, poor grooming, genetics, or any combination of the above. By ruling out causes and trying different solutions, your pet can be clear-eyed and beautiful again.

Infection?
Eye or even ear infection can cause the staining. It's best to have your vet check to rule out an easily treated infection before taking steps that may worsen the condition.

Maybe she's born with it?
Most vets checking complaints of tear-stains are quick to recommend surgery to open blocked tear ducts or irrigate them. I would never suggest disregarding vet recommendations, but it is my personal belief that surgery should be a last resort and other possible causes should be first eliminated.

Erase the Evidence!
If your dog has long hair, like a maltese or bichon frise, take your dog to an experienced groomer (help in choosing a new groomer in a previous article) to have the area around the eyes trimmed very close. Old, stained hair may be hard to lighten and it's easier to start with a fresh surface. Once trimmed, keep the area clean by wiping gently with warm water and cotton gauze at the first signs of tear secretions. If you have a short-haired breed like a bulldog or a dalmation, skip the trim and just keep the area clean.

Doggy Dinner - Featuring New and Improved Tear-Stain Production!
I always stress the importance of a dog's diet because your dog is limited by the vitamins and proteins you choose for him. Try at least to switch (slowly and gradually) to a food without artificial colors and preservatives. Some dogs may also have tear-stains as an allergic reaction to something in their food. Ask your vet to check for signs of food allergy before making any definitive assumptions.

Does Drinking Kool-Aid Cause Tear Stains?

Well, no, Kool-Aid doesn't really change hair color, but the water your dog drinks might. High levels of minerals commonly found in tap water are safe and beneficial for human consumption, but often too much for dogs (especially the littlest ones). Switch your dog to bottled, distilled, or filtered water could make all the difference. This solution, along with the food change solution, may take about a month to really show a difference.

Over-the-Counter Cures
I've bought, sold, and heard about dozens of store-bought or even at-home remedies for tear-stains. The only product I've ever seen work was Angel Eyes. A bichon frise client had chronic tear stains covering most of his face for his entire life. After 3 weeks on Angels' Eyes, I trimmed away all the old and stained hair, and he looked like a perfect little bichon. I've heard other treatments may work, but this product is the only one I have actually witnessed to be 100% effective. This product claims to work "from the outside in".

Keeping your dog's tear-stains under control can be difficult, but there are many options and many solutions. With a little patience and time, your dog can smile into the mirror without the unsightly marking of tear-stains.

Happy hairdays, everyone!

4 Easy Ways to Reduce Your Cat's Shedding

2009-09-03T23:36:00.001-04:00

"My cat is shedding all over the place! Please help, what do I do?"

By popular demand, I offer the best way to reduce your cat's shedding. Save your lint-roller, let the vacuum rest, and target the shedding at its source - Fluffy!

You Are What You Eat... And So Is Your Cat
If your cat is eating El Cheapo's Cat Slop, he probably doesn't have the vitamins and minerals he needs to grow a healthy coat. The first 3 ingredients should NOT include "by-products" or corn. Skeptical? Dedicate yourself to trying a slightly better food for two months, then evaluate any changes.
Brushing
The best brush for short-haired cats comes from the Kong company - the Zoom Groom! Gently, its soft rubber nubs massage while they pull-out dead hair. Also use a steel flea comb to brush out thick areas.
Kitty need a massage?
Is your cat stressed-out? Any major changes at home? Recent vet visit? High levels of stress can cause increased shedding. Try, for one week, giving your cat 5-10 minutes of dedicated petting time after dinner. It just might reduce your cat's stress level - and maybe their owner's, too!
Ditch the Dirt
Keeping your cat clean makes your brushing a lot more effective. Dirty, greasy hair also tends to stick to furniture or clothing more noticeably. If your cat isn't exactly thrilled about bathing, try a waterless bathing foam, spray, or mist. You can also try special refreshing pet powders or pet bathing cloths. Most are available at local pet retailers.

Live with your cat, but not with its shedding. Try these tricks. Just in case, look for a reusable lint-roller that can be rinsed off once full. I like to keep one in the glovebox of my car just in case.

Happy hairdays, everyone!

9 Ways You Accidentally Train A Misbehaving Dog

2009-08-31T20:20:00.002-04:00

1. "Max, STOP! Be a good boy!"
All your dog understands is "Max", maybe "stop", and "good boy!" He doesn't understand the rest! Choose your words carefully and only use positive phrases like "good boy" when your puppy is actually behaving. Stick to simple "No" or "Stop" for misbehavior.

2. No jumping rule that only applies to certain people
It's ok to jump on your husband, but he's not allowed to jump on your mother? Dogs don't understand that only some people can handle their weight. Set a no-jumping rule and stick to it. Nobody in your family should ever encourage your dog to jump up. Stay away from teaching tricks that include jumping on people, even to "give kisses", "give a hug", or "high-five".

3. It's only ok if he bites when he's playing
Same as with the jumping rule, dogs don't always understand when biting is and isn't allowed. Ban biting completely from his list of acceptable behavior. Be especially careful of games where people tap on the sides of puppy's face and try to evade his bite. These games, commonly played with puppies, are a lot less cute when his adult jaw is stronger or when the vet tries to look inside his mouth and gets bit.

4. Using treats to lure a runaway dog back inside
If your dog gets loose once, maybe it won't be a disaster to use a little ham to lure him back, right? Well, now your dog knows that running away means she gets a tasty bit of ham. Next time she wants some ham, she might just dart past the UPS driver.

5. Yelling at a barking dog
She's barking to let you know the neighborhood kids are riding bikes again. You yell at her to be quiet. She hears you barking at the kids with her. It's better to make noise using a whistle, silent whistle, shaking a can of pennies, or clapping your hands. Now she knows you're not yelling with her because you think those kids are annoying, too... or do you?

6. Put her nose in her poop
Poop isn't just gross, it's got lots of bacteria in it that can make your little lady sick. Putting her nose in it is a great way to teach your dog not to let you find out where she poops. This could make her afraid to poop outside while you're watching and you might find evidence left in closets or behind chairs instead.

7. Give him the old shoes so he'll leave the new ones for you
He will love the taste of your gross old shoes and who could blame him? Unfortunately, he doesn't know the difference between cheap and expensive or old and new, so he may help himself to the shoes you bought for your brother's wedding because he likes the new leather smell, too.

8. You REALLY spoil her. She's your baby.
Giving your dog everything and everything she wants can make her really insecure and scared on the day when she finally hears "NO!" If nobody teaches her the limits of good and bad behavior, she won't know what to expect when you reprimand her for the first time. Like children, dogs also want to know the rules and they want to know what the consequences will be.

9. Your small dog gets carried everywhere
Being independent from you, on a leash, can give your dog confidence. He needs to know that he can walk by himself in the world without being harmed so that he doesn't get scared when you put him down. That kind of fear often leads to biting. Walking also burns off nervous/pent-up energy that can make little dogs pretty neurotic. Nutty attack chihuahuas? Put 'em on a leash and walk 'em!

How to Pick A Shampoo for Your Dog

2009-08-24T23:12:00.001-04:00

Dog shampoos is readily available both online and in stores. The right shampoo for you depends on your pet's coat type, their specific needs, and your scent preferences.

Always avoid the eyes, ears, nose, and mouth with shampoo (even with a tearless formula). If necessary, use a washcloth to wipe the face with a small amount of shampoo and water.

Puppy's First Bath
With all of the attention your puppy gets, he'd better smell good! If your dog is 6 months old or less, check labels carefully to make sure they're tear-free and safe. Some have stronger cleaning formulas and specifically warn against use with younger dogs.

A puppy formula may also be preferred if your adult dog has a tendency to lick the shampoo as you bathe him.

Consider Fido First
Shampoos are made to match specific coat colors, textures, and even breeds. Read labels of "whitening" or "coat brightening" shampoos carefully, as some may contain harsh bleaching agents. Aromatherapy formulas with chamomile or lavender may help a nervous pet relax.

Itchy, Scratchy, Scaly?
Does your dog have allergies? Only consider fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, and maybe even "soap-free" formulas. Very gentle, but they can still be effective.

Medicated shampoos can soothe or numb irritated, painful, or itchy skin. Oatmeal and aloe are naturally soothing ingredients that can also help itchiness. Tar and sulfur shampoo will definitely reduce your pet's itching, but the smell it leaves behind is rarely appreciated.

A Softer Side
Moisturizing shampoos and creme rinses are best for dogs with long or dry hair, but can soften any coat. They are especially beneficial during the dry indoor-heating of winter months. Keep in mind that sometimes the added moisture means your dog will take longer to dry. Avoid these products if your dog's coat typically gets oily or greasy.

Waterless?!
This option is perfect for elderly dogs or those terrified by the idea of water. Please check the labels first, but waterless shampoo is usually designed to be applied directly to your pet's dry coat. Typically, it dries as it deodorizes. Some may require brushing or blow-drying to remove residue.

Does Deshedding Shampoo Work?
Groomers give mixed reviews of deshedding formulas. It is my personal opinion at this time that the best way to reduce shedding is with good brushing habits and a good diet. In my experience, deshedding shampoos are often more disappointing than effective.

So Cheap, So BIG!
Buying a concentrated groomer-sized bottle of shampoo (often sold by the gallon) is a great way to save money. It's extremely important, however, to dilute the concentrated formula as specified to avoid irritating your dog's skin. It may be best to buy the regular, small quantity first to make sure you like the scent and how well it cleans.

Smells Like Clean Spirit
If at the store, sometimes it's possible to flip open the tops of shampoo bottles to check the scent. Many formulas labeled "fresh scent" have an almost baby-powder-like smell that tends to last longer. Keep in mind, too, that your dog might be bothered by scents that are too strong or soothed by relaxing essential oil blends.

Go on! Put on your bathing suit and scrub down Scruffy with your new shampoo.

Happy hairdays, everyone!

Home Grooming Basics for Short-Haired Dogs

2009-08-24T21:56:00.000-04:00

In this difficult economy, more pet owners are trying to learn grooming techniques at home for their lower-maintenance short-haired-dogs. The right tools and techniques can make it easy to keep your dog beautiful and healthy at very little cost.

With short-haired dogs, the most common complaints are of excessive shedding, and body odor. These breeds include the labrador retriever (lab), beagle, bulldog, pug, boxer, chihuahua, rottweiler, vizsla, and more. Luckily, these doggy dilemmas are some of the easier ones to fix.

The Right Brush
Brushing helps supply air to the dog's skin, distributes natural oils that condition the hair, and even reduces shedding. It can also build the bond between owner and pet. The wrong brush can have no effect or sometimes even hurt your dog.

Rubber-nubbed brushes are the best choice for these breeds. The massaging, soft rubber points will feel like a special treat to your dog while you easily brush out huge piles of dead hair. You'll notice a shinier coat, sometimes after the very first use!

Groomer's Pick: Zoom Groom by Kong

Brushing Technique
Brushing should be with the direction of the coat growth, from neck toward the tail. Reversed-direction brushing may be uncomfortable for some dogs, but others prefer it.

Start slowly with your dog, working up to firmer strokes. As long as your dog is comfortable, don't be afraid to brush vigorously with this tool. There are no sharp points and very little r isk of injury.

Groomer's At-Home Tip
Use this tool outside because quite a bit of dead hair will fall with each stroke. Brushing indoors is easy to clean up if your dog stands on a plastic tablecloth. When you're done, just pick up the plastic and shake the loose hairs right into the trash!

Stinky Dog
Short-haired dogs should be bathed whenever the coat gets greasy or dull, but generally once every two months. Odor relief in-between baths comes easily with the variety of pet colognes, powders, waterless bathing foam, and wipes available at your local pet supplier or online. Use hypo-allergenic only products if your dog has sensitive skin, but these gentler formulas are often less effective.

Excessive odor can also be caused by allergy or infection, especially if you notice any discoloration or painful areas on your smelly dog. Check with your vet if the problem persists.

If He Eats Garbage, He Might Look Like It, Too
A poor diet can cause more shedding and increased body odor. Food quality is judged not by price, but by the ingredients. Look for foods without by-products, or at least make sure "by-products" are not in the top 3 ingredients. Corn or corn meal provides only minor nutritional value, but will make your dog eat more and poop more often. Dry kibble also has many benefits over moist food, even reducing bad breath!

With these tips and tricks, home grooming for short-haired breeds can be easy and even enjoyable for you and your doggy.

Happy hairdays, everyone!

Reduce Your Dog's Anxiety At The New Groomer

2009-08-19T18:03:00.001-04:00

Maybe your last groomer was your dog's soul mate until she retired. Now you and your dog are both nervous, and you've got an appointment at a new groomer.

These easy tips can help you both glide easily through to your shiny new grooming experience.

As natural pack animals, dogs will look to their owners as pack leaders for cues about new situations. Know that they watch every move and can detect your unconscious hints of fear, anxiety, and aggression. Walk tall, smile, and be friendly. "Follow me, Fluffy!"

Don't feel bad for your dog! Realize that grooming is not punishment, but can be more like an indulgent trip to the spa. You feel cleaner and happier after a refreshing shower, and we all walk just a little bit prouder after a fantastic haircut. "My dog is going to love this."

Avoid negative phrases like, "I'm so sorry you have to go to the groomer, honey, but you'll feel better and you'll get lots of treats when you're done." You can even substitute your mother's phrase, "Think of all the crusty homeless dogs in Africa who would love to go to this groomer."

Focus on how nice your dog will look when they're done to help you send out positive signals about the situation. Think calm, happy thoughts when walking into the grooming shop to announce to your pet that you've arrived at a welcoming place. "You are going to look great."

Introduce yourself to the groomer with a smile and a handshake. Initiating this kind of touch in front of your dog can help build trust. "See, puppy? The groomer touched me and nothing bad happened."

Most groomers pet down a new dog before admission to check the condition of the coat. Let the groomer know if your dog doesn't like his head scratched or if she prefers to sniff first. "Fifi, meet Sarah. Sarah, Fifi prefers to sniff and lick your hand first"

Lastly, when it's time for you to leave, firmly hand the leash over and walk away calmly. Don't try to sneak out or linger because it can give the impression that you expect something bad to happen. Know that dogs get groomed with great results every single day. Remember that most groomers are also dog owners and dog lovers who will treat your dog like their own.

Say this last phrase out loud as you hand off the leash and know that it's true for you both:
"I know you'll be fine".

5 Things to Check After Your Dog Gets Groomed

2009-08-19T00:02:00.001-04:00

You're on the way home from the groomer and Spunky is looking and smelling better than ever!

Now what?

Check these doggy parts to make sure your pampered little one has received the best quality of care:

Inside the ears to make sure they have been cleaned and (depending on breed) plucked. If your dog had a full hair-cut, check that the two ears are trimmed evenly.
The tips of nails, if your dog will let you, to make sure they have been clipped short. If you notice any bleeding, they may have been clipped slightly too short. It is not a health concern as long as the bleeding isn't excessive. Use cornstarch to stop the bleeding faster. Notice, too, if the groomer has missed a nail or two - including the "dew claw" which is usually higher up on the paw and often missed.
The danger zones: armpits, belly-button area, genital area, and ear edges for nicks, cuts, abrasions, or small red bumps (a rash known as clipper burn). These areas are especially vulnerable to injury. Most times vet treatment is not necessary and often it is not a reflection of the groomer's skill. If you notice any unusual marks, contact your groomer immediately. Groomers may not tell you (or lie) about these minor incidents. The areas should be kept clean and monitored for infection.
The pads, or bottoms, of your dog's paws to make sure there are no knots or tufts of hair sticking out. Highly-detailed groomers will usually shave this area, where the foot meets the floor, to keep the hair from becoming knotted. It also makes it easier to keep paws from picking up dirt outside and tracking it all over your home. Check this area, too, for hidden nicks and cuts.
Any places your dog usually gets knotted/matted should be checked (possibly even " noted in #3, as well as behind the ears and around the collar.

Contact your groomer as soon as you notice any issue so that it can be corrected or refunded right away. You should be able to convince the groomer to pay the bill if a grooming injury requires vet care.

Above all, remain calm and know that even great groomers make mistakes now and then.

Happy haircuts, everyone!

10 Questions to Ask Before You Pick a New Dog Groomer

2009-08-18T21:45:00.001-04:00

Searching for a new groomer can be scary! Sure, hair grows back, but you want to make sure your precious pup is safe and happy.

Ask prospective groomers these questions before your first appointment. It's always best to call a groomer toward the middle of the day, as early morning and afternoon are typically high-traffic times. It's even better to ask the groomer for a good time to drop by (and bring Spike with you) to ask your questions.

What kind of training have you had? Professional training at a school or certificate program (not just an internship or work-study) is always preferred. If they learned from another groomer, it might be best to ask to contact that groomer and go through this list with the teacher, too. It's important that their training included safety and handling procedures that most I-taught-myself groomers may not know.
How many years have you been grooming? This answer would ideally include at least 2 years of full-time experience. If they say something vague like "I've been grooming my own (or my friend/family) dogs at home for years...", make sure they have quality training to make up for their unspoken lack of experience.
Are dog ever put into a crate? If the answer is yes, asking to see the crate area is a reasonable request, especially if there are no other pets in the area at that time. Quickly, smell for lingering odors like urine, feces, mildew, or other signs that it it isn't thoroughly cleaned. Are the crates visibly in good shape (not rusted or broken)?
Do the cage dryers use heated air or recirculated air? Heating on cage dryers is a big no! The air from a cage dryer blows directly at your pets, designed to be used without groomer interaction. Recirculated air usually isn't harmful, but heated air can cause breathing distress or even death for certain breeds, like Yorkshire Terriers or Bulldogs.
What brand of dog shampoo do you use? The quality of the shampoo can change the coat condition of your pet. Cheap ingredients can cause allergic reactions or hair damage. For this, it's best to look online to check the brand specifics. Look for its price relative to the others (try PetEdge.Com or RyansPet.com) to make sure they're not charging you top price for bottom quality.
What's included in the grooming package? Ask to see how many services the package includes and prices for added-on services: shampoo, conditioner, ear-cleaning, ear-plucking, nail trim, pet perfume/cologne, flea bath/dip, de-skunking treatment, dematting/detangling
Do you offer toothbrushing? Does it really work? Here's another trick question. Toothbrushing at the groomer only works if the owner ALSO brushes the pet's teeth at home. Think about it - would brushing your teeth once a month make a big impact? Be wary of the motives of a dog groomer who still insists on selling you a toothbrushing service after you mention that you wouldn't brush your dog's teeth at home.
Do you require shot records? While not mandatory, groomers who ask for vaccination records protect your pet by limiting Fido's exposure to risks for infection.
What is clipper burn? Throw this question in casually, almost as if you don't know, to see how they react. Clipper burn [little red bumps of irritation caused by a hot blade or by improper clipper handling] is mostly preventable and should happen rarely if ever. Be wary of responses like "Oh, it happens all the time,it's no big deal".
Do you offer any discounts or incentives for homes with multiple dogs? For frequent clients? If I refer a friend who becomes a client? Sometimes groomers (especially those who manage their own shops) will offer discounts if you bring your pack of dogs to them regularly. Just one dog? Bring Lassy in for a haircut every six weeks (depending on breed) and schedule a bath with the groomer in-between trims. If you have a friend or two with dogs, see if the groomer with give you a one-time discount for each new client you give her. Everyone wins!

Remember - you have a right to ask questions before you trust your pet with a new groomer! A groomer who doesn't want to give you the time to answer a few questions might not be patient with your dog.

Happy haircuts, everyone!