Dear Labby: Tip the groomer?

Dear Labby,

I take my dog to a groomer. Am I supposed to tip? If so, what is the standard amount?

Signed:

Really Is Necessary to Spend Extra?

Dear R.I.N.S.E.,

Certainly a tip is not appropriate if your Chihuahua comes back smelling like a garbage dump or your Husky returns with a Poodle cut. (Unless, of course, you specifically requested that Nanook be shaved around the ankles. And in that case, whether or not to tip is not your biggest issue right now.)

But if your dog reappears smelling clean, sporting a smart new haircut, and doesn't seem to be particularly traumatized, you should tip. Fifteen percent is standard, and I suggest tossing in an extra buck or two when the groomers have been asked to express the anal glands. Yeah, it's their job, but that part just... well... stinks.

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	i should hope that people tip more than 15% i know that's the standard but it's just not enough these days to keep groomers eating... in what world is 15 enough. However i'm curious to know how groomer tipping is handled in other countries 3 months ago by Anonymous
	I always tip and it's usually a little more than the 15%, not that my dogs are bad. They are very good at the groomers. I am just very grateful for them washing, clipping nails, cleaning ears etc. If I try it on my own my dogs are bad because they think just because it's mommy it's ok to be bad LOL They save me a lot of trouble and clean up. over 1 year ago by Anonymous
	I am a dog groomer and have owned and operated my own business for over 20 years. It is not the groomers job to express the anal glands. This is not only my opinion but that of several vets I know. This can be very dangerous if not done correctly and also should only be done when there is a medical problem. The glands are self regulating. So those who think this is a groomers job are wrong! about 2 years ago by Anonymous
	My daughter is a dog groomer, and gets paid very little for her hard work and love she gives her doggy customers. It is a shame when she spends 3+ hours on a dog and receives no tip. Just like wait staff and hairdressers, a groomer should be tipped for good service! about 2 years ago by Anonymous

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