Does my dog have to be vaccinated for mobile grooming?

Yes, but only rabies vaccination is required. You can either provide proof when booking or the groomer can contact your vet to confirm it's up to date.

A lot of pet parents ask this question before they book mobile grooming. Many are not sure if they still have the paperwork, or are worried the groomer will want a full panel of vaccines and their dog's bordetella expired six months ago.

Boarding facilities need proof of rabies, distemper, bordetella, and sometimes canine influenza because they're putting multiple dogs together in close quarters. Mobile grooming is one dog at a time in a van with no other animals present.

The rabies requirement is legally mandated, because if a groomer gets bitten and the dog’s rabies status is unknown, it can be a serious health issue. If you don't have a physical copy of your dog's rabies certificate, let your mobile groomer know in advance. Most can contact your vet directly for confirmation.

Sometimes age or health issues mean a dog can't get vaccinated. If this applies to your pet, you can always give the groomer a call before you book. They might be able to accept a formal exemption letter from your vet. However, be aware that this is subject to local laws and the shop's own policies.

If your dog’s rabies shot has lapses, it’s usually very easy to fix this. You can call your vet, and most clinics can fit you in for a brief appointment so you can get back on the grooming schedule.

Woofie's mobile grooming in Lee's Summit only requires proof of rabies vaccination. You can upload it when you book, email it over, or just give them your vet's contact info and they'll confirm it directly. Once the rabies vaccine status is confirmed, you can look forward to your dog being groomed in your driveway.