Pet Grooming in Whitby

Whitby'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 Town of Whitby publishes a list of the business types it licences, such as food premises, lodging houses and refreshment vehicles. Pet grooming is not named on that list. A licence is not a measure of skill, so ask how long the groomer has worked, whether they groom your breed often and how they handle nervous dogs.

Your dog's licence

The Town of Whitby licenses dogs and cats through DocuPet, and its fee schedule covers dogs and cats over three months old. You can buy or renew online or at the Whitby Animal Services Centre, and the tag you receive doubles as your pet's official licence tag. Groomers will usually ask for proof of rabies vaccination, and many boarding and day care businesses ask to see the licence too.

Coyotes and wild birds

Whitby Animal Services advises owners to keep pets on a leash to prevent contact with sick or dead birds, and warns that feeding coyotes can make them bolder around small pets. Keep small dogs close on walks, and mention to your groomer any scratches or skin problems you notice afterward.

Winter salt and summer heat

Whitby 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.