Pet Grooming in Clayton

Clayton's 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.

Experience matters more than paperwork

North Carolina's Animal Welfare Section licenses shelters, pet shops, boarding kennels and dealers; groomers are not on that list, so ask how long the groomer has worked, where they trained and whether they groom your breed often. A groomer that also keeps dogs overnight is a boarding kennel and needs that state license, which the department says also applies to in-home boarding.

Rabies shots and town animal rules

The Town of Clayton says that state law requires all dogs, cats and ferrets to be vaccinated against rabies, and the state's Animal Welfare Section puts the starting age at four months. Clayton has its own animal control officer, reached through the police department, and the town does not run a shelter: it has an agreement with Johnston County Animal Services to impound animals. The town's FAQ also says its code of ordinances does not allow dogs to be tethered, tied or chained for any length of time, and limits households to four cats and/or dogs. Groomers will ask for proof of rabies vaccination.

Summer heat

Clayton summers are hot and humid. Book early-morning appointments, never leave your dog in a parked car, and for double-coated breeds such as huskies and shepherds, 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.