We are thrilled to offer cat grooming to our animal hospital patients! Charlene McLaughlin, a professional groomer with almost 28 years of experience with dogs & cats, joined our team in early 2020. Many of our dog patients have been enjoying her services for months and we’re excited to extend those services to cats in need of a touch up!

​For the safety of your cat and all of our feline guests, all grooming guests must have had a veterinary exam within a year and must be current on their Rabies and Distemper vaccines. Vaccinations must be administered at least 48 hours in advance of your cat's grooming appointment. These requirements are to make sure that your cat is healthy enough to be groomed and all of our grooming guests are protected from diseases that can spread easily in communal settings.

​What made you decide to become a dog groomer?
I always wanted to work with animals. Growing up we had a cat but a neighbor’s small shepherd mix was over all of the time. I adored her! As soon as I turned 18 I got my own dog, a husky-keeshond mix, and I’ve had dogs ever since. Right now I have two rescue dogs, Knuckles and Betty, my sidekicks that typically come in to work with me.

My first job was at a horse barn and then I worked at a boarding kennel. The kennel had a groomer that I would visit – it was there that I decided I would become a groomer. I opened my own shop at the age of 26!
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I love grooming dogs because I love dogs!! I enjoy making them feel better, seeing the transformation, and making owners happy. I have a true passion and understanding of dogs. I look for cues and body language to understand what they are feeling: if they’re scared, happy or just want to get the grooming over with! I try to cater to older and more nervous dogs. I work to gain their trust and keep them comfortable but also get them in and out and home to alleviate stress. ​

​What training did you complete to become a dog groomer?
I have a few different certifications: from the New England Institute of Pet Grooming, from International Professional Groomers, and most recently I earned my Fear Free Groomer certification. It’s really important to make sure your dog’s groomer is trained because a pair of scissors in an untrained hand can mean a bad haircut or even an injured dog.

Along with breed-specific styles, grooming certification programs teach grooming professionals how to properly and safely handle dogs. My Fear Free Grooming certification reinforced what I’ve been trying to do throughout my grooming career – handle dogs gently and earn their trust so that they’re happy to see me the next time they come in.
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Aside from these programs I’m also a member of New England Pet Grooming Professionals where groomers share new techniques and best practices. I’m always learning!

​What should clients and their dogs expect when they can to you for grooming?
Generally, dogs should be groomed every four-to-six weeks depending on the breed, coat, and preferred style. When you come in for your dog’s grooming appointment, you can give them a couple of their favorite treats to create a positive association with coming to see me. I try to keep the atmosphere relaxed with classical music and a calm demeanor.
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After aligning with you on the desired haircut and asking about any health issues or anxiety around grooming, I’ll bathe your dog with two gentle and natural shampoos that won’t strip the coat of its natural oils. Then I use a natural conditioner to make the fur extra soft. After they are clean and dry I will brush them out, give them the desired trim, and make them look beautiful!

We are thrilled to offer dog grooming beginning on Monday, February 4! We are taking advanced appointments now. Call 978-369-3503 or  email us to book your dog's first grooming appointment!
 
Cindy Reilly, who owned and operated her own pet grooming business and worked as a groomer at Especially for Pets in Acton, is joining our team at Concord Animal Hospital. We are so happy that someone with almost 25 years of experience, a Certified Professional Groomer and true animal lover, will be heading our professional grooming service!