Pet Grooming in Washington, DC

Washington'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.

What DC law requires of groomers

DC law says that no one may own or operate a commercial pet care facility without first obtaining a basic business license with an Inspected Sales and Service endorsement and a health permit from the Mayor. The law defines the term to include a facility that provides day or overnight boarding or pet-related services such as bathing or grooming, and it lets the Mayor set standards of care and require initial and periodic inspections. A groomer should be able to show its license and health permit, so ask to see them.

Experience matters too

A license is not a measure of skill, so ask how long the groomer has worked, where they trained and whether they groom your breed often. Before the first visit:

• 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.

Your dog's DC license

DC Health's Division of Animal Services issues dog licenses. An owner of a dog over four months old must obtain an annual license before July 1 each year, within 10 days of acquiring the dog or within 10 days of the dog turning four months old, and proof of rabies and distemper vaccinations is required. Groomers will ask for proof of rabies vaccination too.

Extreme weather rules

DC Health says it is unlawful to leave pets outdoors in extreme weather, defined as below 32 degrees or above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, without human accompaniment or adequate shelter for more than 15 minutes. After winter walks, wipe your dog's paws: salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate the pads of the feet.

Summer heat

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.

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.