PetSmart Grooming: Everything Your Groomer Doesn’t Want You to Ask
🐕 KEY TAKEAWAYS AT A GLANCE
| Question | Critical Answer |
|---|---|
| Is pet grooming regulated? | ❌ NO state requires groomer licensing |
| How many dogs reportedly died at PetSmart? | 47+ deaths documented 2008-2018 (NJ Advance Media) |
| Which breeds face highest risk? | 🐶 Brachycephalic breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers) |
| What training do PetSmart groomers receive? | 800+ hours at Grooming Academy + annual safety recertification |
| Can I watch my dog being groomed? | 🎥 Cameras installed; most salons discourage in-person watching |
| What’s the “Look Great Guarantee”? | If unhappy, PetSmart promises to make it right |
| Average grooming cost? | $40-$120 depending on size and services |
| How long does grooming take? | ⏰ Typically 2-4 hours |
NO, Your Dog Groomer Doesn’t Legally Need Any License Whatsoever
This revelation shocks nearly every pet owner who learns it. Currently, there are no states that mandate a license for dog grooming. Unlike your hairdresser, dentist, or even your tattoo artist, the person wielding sharp scissors around your dog’s eyes and neck faces zero mandatory licensing requirements anywhere in the United States.
Pet grooming is completely unregulated with no state requiring any licensing. The implications are staggering. Anyone can purchase clippers, print business cards, and begin grooming dogs tomorrow without demonstrating competence, passing safety exams, or proving they understand canine anatomy.
New Jersey attempted to change this with “Bijou’s Law” in 2018, introduced after several high-profile dog deaths at grooming salons. However, this bill has been “dead” since January 2020. Colorado stands as one notable exception, requiring facilities to obtain licenses and mandating that someone must always watch a tethered animal.
📋 GROOMING REGULATION REALITY CHECK 📋
| What You Might Assume | The Actual Truth |
|---|---|
| Groomers must pass exams | ❌ No federal or state exams required |
| Facilities are inspected | ⚠️ Only in select states like Connecticut, Colorado |
| Training is mandatory | ❌ Voluntary industry certifications only |
| Someone monitors your dog constantly | ⚠️ Not legally required everywhere |
| Insurance is required | ❌ Recommended but not mandated |
YES, 47 Dogs Died After PetSmart Grooming Sessions—And That Number May Be Understated
The numbers are documented and disturbing. Over the past decade, 47 dogs have died during or within days of grooming at PetSmart stores across the country, an investigation by NJ Advance Media found. Thirty-two of the deaths have occurred since the start of 2015—the same year PetSmart was bought out by a private equity firm.
These weren’t isolated incidents confined to one problematic store. NJ.com’s count is based on reports by PetSmart customers in 14 states, and said it is not definitive because there is little public accounting of such deaths. The true number remains unknown because no centralized reporting system exists.
The investigation uncovered deeply troubling patterns. The investigation uncovered “secret agreements,” poor training, and pressure put on employees to meet sales quotas. Former employees described an environment where productivity metrics overshadowed animal safety.
One case became national news. CBS reporter A.J. Ross dropped off her dog Kobe for a routine nail trim. A local veterinarian confirmed the hyperextension of the neck as well as that the suspension of the dog above the grooming table led to Kobe’s airway being crushed which resulted in his death. All four employees involved (two groomers and two store managers) were reportedly charged with felony cruelty to animals.
PetSmart’s official response emphasizes their safety record relative to their volume. PetSmart does millions of groomings a year, so the deaths cited represent only a tiny fraction of the pets it works with. The company stated they have “set the highest grooming safety standards in the industry.”
FLAT-FACED BREEDS Face the Highest Grooming Mortality Risk—Here’s the Science
If you own a Bulldog, Pug, French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, or Boxer, this section could save your pet’s life.
Brachycephalic dogs—those with short noses and smushed faces—accounted for 20 of the 47 documented deaths. That’s nearly 43% of fatalities coming from breeds that represent a much smaller percentage of the overall dog population.
The veterinary science explains why. Brachycephalic dogs can suffer from a range of health and welfare issues including breathing problems, digestive issues, exercise and heat intolerance, and sleeping difficulties. Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is a disorder commonly seen in brachycephalic dogs, in which obstruction of the airways results in breathing difficulties and significant compromise to the dogs’ welfare.
The grooming environment creates a perfect storm of danger for these breeds. Dogs rely on their airways to help maintain and regulate their body temperature, as they do not sweat as a primary cooling mechanism. Air comes in through the nostrils or an open, panting mouth. It is easy to imagine that dogs with a long face and head would have a lot more room for the passage of cool air than one with a short head.
Professional groomers identify high-velocity dryers as particularly dangerous. Even brachycephalic pets that breathe without a struggle under normal conditions need special care while being dried to maintain proper body temperature. Using heated cage dryers on brachycephalic pets can be dangerous.
⚠️ BRACHYCEPHALIC BREED RISK FACTORS ⚠️
| Risk Factor | Why It’s Dangerous During Grooming |
|---|---|
| Shortened airways | 😰 Cannot cool down efficiently when stressed |
| Elongated soft palate | Blocks airflow under physical restraint |
| Heat sensitivity | 🌡️ Dryers can trigger overheating rapidly |
| Stress intolerance | Unfamiliar environment compounds breathing difficulty |
| Narrow nostrils | Already limited oxygen intake worsens under duress |
PetSmart responded to these risks with policy changes. We now solely offer an Express Service for English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers and Boston Terriers. This features an uninterrupted service provided by a dedicated grooming professional, limiting the amount of time your pet will spend in the salon. When the groom is complete, your pet will be returned to you right away, so we will ask you to stay in or near the store.
800 Hours of Training Sounds Impressive—Until You Understand What It Actually Means
PetSmart heavily markets their Grooming Academy credentials. Academy-trained stylists complete over 800 hours of hands-on instruction and safety certification, working with at least 200 dogs of all breeds and sizes.
But lawsuits and former employees paint a different picture. The Grooming Academy doesn’t provide a recognized degree or credentials, and leaves workers thrust into a demanding and sometimes dangerous job, often working for barely above minimum wage. Trainees are quickly grooming dogs for paying customers with limited supervision from trainers or managers.
The training pipeline works in stages. Salon trainees become safety-certified bathers by learning basic anatomy and bathing at least 125 dogs. Selected bathers attend classes and in-salon training where they learn to use grooming tools and how to groom specific breeds.
One controversial element received legal scrutiny. PetSmart charges groomers $5,000 if they fail to stay with the company for at least two years after starting their training, and $2,500 if the person leaves after one year. In 2024, PetSmart reached a settlement with Pennsylvania’s Attorney General over these training repayment agreements, with the state finding them unenforceable.
In 2024, PetSmart reached a settlement with Pennsylvania Attorney General Michelle Henry over its use of TRAPs in the state, requiring the company to no longer use TRAPs and pay a fine to the state.
🎓 PETSMART TRAINING BREAKDOWN 🎓
| Training Stage | What It Involves |
|---|---|
| Bather Phase | Learn basic anatomy, bathe 125+ dogs |
| Grooming Academy | 4-week, 160-hour intensive program |
| Apprenticeship | 33 hours hands-on with 125 dogs (apprentices) |
| Ongoing Education | Annual safety recertification required |
| Specialization | Breed-specific techniques taught |
SENIOR DOGS Need Special Handling—And Most Salons Won’t Admit They’re Unprepared
If your dog is over seven years old, conventional grooming protocols can cause serious harm.
Senior dogs may be less tolerant of stress or lengthy grooming sessions. Shorter, more frequent grooming sessions typically work better for them than longer ones.
The physical realities of aging demand accommodation. Conditions such as arthritis, thinning skin, and a weakened immune system can make grooming more challenging and even uncomfortable if not done carefully. Senior pets may struggle with mobility issues, making it harder for them to stand for extended periods.
High-velocity dryers pose particular dangers for older dogs. A high velocity force dryer can cause a Reflex Seizure in pets also known as a “bark seizure.” This seizure is when the pet starts making uncontrollable noises—uncontrolled high pitched barking while frantically trying to escape. This kind of seizure can be caused by loud noises for short or long periods of time.
Dogs with cognitive decline face additional challenges. Elderly dogs with dementia often experience anxiety and sensory sensitivities during grooming. Grooming panic in elderly dogs with dementia is triggered by noise and unfamiliar sensations like hair dryers or vacuums.
👴 SENIOR DOG GROOMING MODIFICATIONS 👴
| Standard Practice | Senior-Safe Alternative |
|---|---|
| High-velocity dryers | ✅ Low-velocity or towel drying |
| Long grooming sessions | ✅ Multiple shorter sessions |
| Standing throughout | ✅ Allow lying down, frequent breaks |
| Standard restraints | ✅ Gentle support equipment |
| Harsh products | ✅ Hypoallergenic, gentle formulas |
THE QUESTIONS Every Pet Owner Must Ask BEFORE Handing Over That Leash
The American Kennel Club recommends treating groomer selection with the same seriousness as choosing any healthcare provider.
Your dog should have a crate to themselves, with clean padding, plenty of air, and in view of salon personnel. A first aid kit should also be in plain view. You also want to know if a staff member familiar with first aid is always present.
Insurance matters more than most people realize. Knowing that your groomer has liability insurance can give you peace of mind. If for any reason your dog is injured while under the groomer’s care, any medical expenses you incur as a result should be covered.
Medical history disclosure prevents dangerous oversights. Warts or skin tags can be easily nicked by the unsuspecting groomer. Vision problems can cause the dog to startle more easily, which can lead an otherwise gentle dog to inflict a nasty bite. Arthritic animals may have difficulty getting onto the table or standing for grooming.
📝 ESSENTIAL PRE-GROOMING CHECKLIST 📝
| Question to Ask | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| “What certifications do your groomers hold?” | Voluntary credentials show commitment |
| “Can I tour the facility?” | See cleanliness and safety measures |
| “How do you handle anxious dogs?” | ⚠️ Reveals their approach to stress |
| “What drying methods do you use?” | Critical for senior/brachycephalic dogs |
| “Do you carry liability insurance?” | 💰 Protects you financially |
| “What’s your emergency protocol?” | Shows preparedness for worst-case scenarios |
| “Will my dog ever be left unattended?” | 👀 Tethered dogs should always be supervised |
| “How do you handle behavioral issues?” | Reveals experience level |
YOUR DOG ISN’T Property—But Legally, That’s Exactly What They Are
Understanding your legal rights helps set realistic expectations if something goes wrong.
Under the law in the USA, pets are classified as chattels or personal property. Therefore, the primary legal recourse for injuries to a pet caused by the negligence of a professional grooming provider would be property damage claims.
This classification limits compensation primarily to veterinary expenses and the pet’s market value—not emotional damages that families experience. Several lawsuits have challenged this framework.
Lawsuits allege that an alarming number of consumers have reported serious injury and/or death to pets while being groomed at PetSmart. The injuries range from severe cuts, to overheating and “cooking” the animal, to strangulation and blunt force trauma.
PetSmart has settled multiple legal actions. PetSmart agreed to a $10 million settlement in a collective wage and hour class action lawsuit. If approved, the settlement funds will be distributed to 16,000 current and former animal groomers and other workers. Note this particular settlement addressed worker compensation issues, not pet injuries.
THE PRICING PUZZLE: What You’re Actually Paying For
PetSmart’s pricing structure varies by location, dog size, and service package.
The cost of bathing a small, medium, and large dog at PetSmart is $40.99, whereas bathing an extra-large dog costs $49.99. For a full groom at PetSmart, customers will have to pay $76 for a small, medium, or large dog and $89.99 for an extra-large dog.
Cat owners face different pricing. For cats, prices start at $15 to have your kitten bathed and brushed at PetSmart and from $30 to have it bathed and trimmed. You can also expect to pay $20 for a PAWdicure and $26 for a PAWdicure Plus.
💰 PETSMART PRICING OVERVIEW 💰
| Service | Small/Medium/Large Dog | Extra-Large Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Bath Package | $40.99 | $49.99 |
| Full Groom | $76.00 | $89.99 |
| Nail Trim (walk-in) | Starting ~$15 | Starting ~$15 |
| FURminator De-shed | $50-$70+ | $70+ |
| Cat Full Groom | $30-$60 | N/A |
What’s included in a full groom? A bath with oxygen-infused shampoo, a blow-dry, 15 minutes of brushing, a light face trim, nail trim, ear cleaning, removal of ear hair, scissoring the feet, shaving paw pads, a sanitary trim and anal gland cleaning for pets that need it.
BEFORE YOUR NEXT APPOINTMENT: The Critical Safety Measures You Control
You’re not powerless in this situation. Strategic preparation dramatically reduces risks.
Request specific groomers by name. Once you find someone your dog responds well to, book directly with them. Request a Pet Stylist with more experience who specializes in your breed’s specific haircut. Simply asking for someone who loves to groom your type of dog will result in a finished product more in line with your expectations.
Communicate medical conditions explicitly. Arthritic animals may have difficulty getting onto the table or standing for grooming, and may need special accommodations or equipment or a little extra time.
Stay nearby for brachycephalic and senior dogs. PetSmart’s express service policy for flat-faced breeds exists for good reason—use it.
Know the warning signs at pickup. Watch for lethargy, difficulty breathing, limping, unusual quietness, or reluctance to walk. One owner picked up their dog and could hear the dog panting loudly on the way home. The dog died a couple of hours later.
Document everything. If an incident occurs, photograph injuries immediately, obtain veterinary records, save all communications, and request surveillance footage promptly.
🔴 WHEN TO SKIP PETSMART AND GO STRAIGHT TO YOUR VET
| Situation | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| Dog over 10 years old with health conditions | 🏥 Vet-supervised grooming |
| Severe anxiety or aggression history | Specialist groomer or sedation at vet clinic |
| Brachycephalic breed showing breathing distress | Emergency vet evaluation first |
| Recent surgery or open wounds | Wait until fully healed |
| Heart conditions or seizure disorders | Vet clearance required |
| Dog has never been groomed professionally | Start with vet consultation |
THE BOTTOM LINE: Informed Decisions Protect Both Your Dog and Your Peace of Mind
PetSmart isn’t inherently dangerous. Millions of dogs pass through their salons annually without incident. Their 800-hour training program exceeds what many independent groomers receive. Their cameras, safety certifications, and express services for high-risk breeds demonstrate genuine attempts at improvement following publicized tragedies.
But the grooming industry’s fundamental lack of regulation means the burden of safety verification falls entirely on you. The questions you ask, the research you conduct, and the communication you provide determine whether your dog’s grooming appointment becomes routine maintenance or a preventable tragedy.
Your dog can’t advocate for themselves. They can’t tell you the dryer is too hot, the restraint too tight, or that they’re struggling to breathe. That responsibility belongs to you—and now you have the knowledge to fulfill it.
The smartest pet owners don’t just drop off their dogs. They interview groomers, tour facilities, communicate health conditions thoroughly, and trust their instincts when something feels wrong. Your dog’s safety isn’t guaranteed by company policies or marketing promises. It’s guaranteed by your vigilance.
