[QUOTE]Originally posted by chatty lady:
There are NO qualification to say you are a groomer, no tests they need to take, no licensing to worry about, so anyone can say they're a groomer.

Apparently.

Irresponsibility in any business can lead to injury, and even death. Media reports state it happens in daycares, home daycares, nursing homes, hospitals and the list goes on. I would be lacking in judgment if I stated that ALL handlers who enter a show ring, also have their own backyard puppy mills. But it has happened, and continues to happen.

When seeking out ANY kind of professional, you must be proactive and ask questions, tour facilities, and ask questions again. When seeking information, get ALL the facts, not just someone's biased opinion who obviously is seeking reaction and kudos only.

As you can read on this thread, there are MORE compassionate, skilled groomers in business than the minority of slum grooming shops. A little bit of incentive should easily lead you to one who cares about your pet as much as you do.