Pet Grooming in Altoona

Altoona-area groomers range from neighborhood salons and pet-store grooming counters to mobile vans that work from your driveway. A full groom usually covers a bath, haircut, nail trim and ear cleaning; most groomers also offer bath-only visits, de-shedding and quick tidy-ups between full grooms.

Licenses and the groomer

Pennsylvania does not license groomers: the state's business guide lists only a sales tax license for a grooming business, so ask how long the groomer has worked, where they trained and whether they groom your breed often.

Your dog's license

Pennsylvania dogs must be licensed by January 1 each year, from the time you buy or adopt them (as early as eight weeks old) or at three months of age, whichever comes first, according to the Department of Agriculture. In Altoona the license is bought through the city rather than the county, as the state's county treasurer page points out. Dogs and cats three months and older also need a current rabies vaccination, so keep your dog's records handy for groomers.

Winter salt and summer heat

Pennsylvania winters mean snow, ice and salted sidewalks. Wipe your dog's paws after walks, and ask the groomer to keep the fur between the pads trimmed so ice and salt do not build up. In summer, book early-morning appointments, never leave your dog in a parked car, and for double-coated breeds such as huskies, shepherds and golden retrievers, ask for a de-shed rather than a shave: the undercoat protects them from heat and sunburn.

Before the first appointment

• Tell the groomer about your dog's health, age and temperament.
• Ask how dogs are dried; if a cage dryer is used, someone should check the dog often.
• Ask which vaccines they require, and reschedule if your dog is coughing.
• If the coat is badly matted, ask about a short clip rather than hours of brushing out.

About these listings

Many listings here were added from public business data and have not been claimed by the business yet. Check hours, prices and services with the groomer directly. If you run one of these businesses, you can claim or correct your listing from its page.