Kennels are more than just temporary boarding facilities—they’re second homes for pets when their families are away. As the pet care industry evolves, kennels are expanding their offerings to include premium services that enhance comfort, health, and well-being. One of the most valuable additions is professional grooming. From basic hygiene to pampering spa treatments, grooming services in the kennel setting provide tangible benefits for both pets and their owners.
In this article, we’ll explore how grooming services in kennels add value, keep pets happy and healthy, and elevate the overall boarding experience.
Cleanliness and Health: The Core Benefits of Grooming
At its core, grooming is about maintaining cleanliness and health. Pets in kennels are often in close proximity to other animals, increasing the risk of skin infections, parasites, and hygiene-related discomforts. Offering in-house grooming helps mitigate these risks. Services like regular baths, ear cleaning, and nail trimming are essential to keeping pets clean and comfortable during their stay.
Moreover, groomers often act as the first line of defense against early signs of health issues. They may notice abnormalities such as lumps, skin irritations, or infections before the owner or even the kennel staff does. Catching these issues early can lead to faster treatment and better outcomes, saving pet owners time and money.
Reducing Stress Through Routine and Familiarity
Many pets experience anxiety when away from home, especially when introduced to a new environment with unfamiliar smells and sounds. Adding grooming services to the kennel experience can help reduce this stress. Routine grooming activities—brushing, washing, or massage-like treatments—can provide a sense of familiarity and calm.
Kennels that offer personalized grooming based on the pet’s preferences (e.g., warm baths, specific brushes, or a calm, quiet environment) often report happier, more relaxed animals. Grooming also ensures that when pets return home, they look and feel their best—giving owners peace of mind and improving overall satisfaction with the boarding experience.
Enhancing the Value Proposition for Kennel Owners
From a business perspective, grooming services are a significant value-add for kennels. Not only do they offer a new revenue stream, but they also differentiate the facility from competitors. Pet parents are increasingly seeking one-stop solutions for their pets, and combining boarding with grooming is a major convenience.
Kennels that promote bundled services—such as “Stay & Groom” packages—can increase customer retention and upsell opportunities. For example, offering discounts for combined stays and grooming appointments can entice pet owners to book both services. Additionally, well-groomed pets leave a lasting positive impression, increasing the likelihood of word-of-mouth referrals and repeat business.
Customization and Luxury Add-ons: Going Beyond the Basics
Today’s pet owners often view their pets as family members deserving of pampering. This mindset has fueled demand for upscale grooming options that go beyond standard care. Kennels that cater to this trend with customizable services such as de-shedding treatments, coat conditioning, blueberry facials, or even paw balm applications can significantly enhance their appeal.
Some kennels also offer breed-specific grooming, which is especially valuable for long-haired or high-maintenance breeds. Others provide seasonal grooming packages—like summer cuts or winter moisturizing treatments—to help pets stay comfortable year-round. These luxury add-ons not only meet the needs of more discerning clients but also boost revenue per customer.
In conclusion, grooming services in kennels are far more than an aesthetic perk—they’re an essential part of quality pet care that contributes to health, comfort, and owner satisfaction. From improving hygiene and reducing stress to creating business opportunities and offering tailored luxuries, grooming adds undeniable value to the boarding experience.
Kennel owners who invest in professional grooming, trained staff, and customizable options will not only meet modern pet owners’ expectations but also build a stronger, more trusted brand in a competitive industry.