Pet Grooming in Kitchener

Kitchener's groomers range from neighbourhood salons and pet-store grooming counters to mobile vans that park outside your home. 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.

Business licences

The City of Kitchener lists the businesses that need a City licence, and the list includes "pet care establishment" and "pet shop". The page does not say whether a groomer counts as a pet care establishment, so ask the groomer which licences it holds. A licence is not a measure of skill, so also ask how long the groomer has worked and whether they groom your breed often.

Your dog's licence

The City says its bylaw requires all dogs to be licensed annually. Dogs in Kitchener are licensed through the Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo and Stratford Perth, online or in person at the Kitchener Waterloo Animal Centre on Riverbend Drive, and the fees go to the Humane Society rather than the City. Groomers will usually ask for proof of rabies vaccination, and many boarding and day care businesses ask to see the licence too.

Coyotes

Kitchener's page on coyotes and wildlife advises keeping dogs on a leash and not leaving them unattended, keeping them inside at night and cleaning up after them, because coyotes are attracted to dog feces. Keep small dogs close on walks.

Winter salt and summer heat

Kitchener winters bring snow, ice and salted sidewalks. Wipe your dog's paws after walks, and ask your groomer to keep the fur between the pads trimmed so ice does not build up. In summer, book early in the day, never leave a dog in a parked car, and for double-coated breeds such as huskies and shepherds, ask for a de-shed rather than a shave.

Coughs and respiratory illness

In December 2023, Global News reported on a wave of dog respiratory illness across Canada, and a pet insurer noted a 25.17 per cent year-over-year increase in respiratory claims in Ontario. The Ontario Veterinary College's Scott Weese advised taking a dog to the vet if it stops eating, has nasal or eye discharge or has trouble breathing. Ask your vet whether your dog's vaccines are current, and reschedule a groom if your dog is coughing.

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.