The Pet Shoppe - Gloucester, Ontario

Rob

Review of The Pet Shoppe Grooming Experience

We’ve visited The Pet Shoppe several times over the last few years for grooming services for our Westie, and while the store itself is lovely—clean, well-stocked, and staffed by genuinely kind and welcoming employees—our experience with the grooming service has been disappointing and, ultimately, concerning.

Each grooming appointment was followed by criticism from the groomer, ranging from scolding us for not trimming our dog’s nails (despite that being a core part of the grooming service) to insisting we must buy and use a specific conditioner sold in-store. When we brought in a vet-recommended medicated shampoo for our dog’s skin condition, the groomer refused to use it, claiming it was too harsh—directly contradicting veterinary advice.

More distressingly, over time we noticed behavioural changes in our very gentle, passive dog. He became noticeably agitated and defensive when touched around his neck or collar. After a vet consultation, it was suggested that these changes could stem from overly tight or uncomfortable restraint during grooming sessions—something that, if true, is deeply upsetting and unacceptable.

We’ve since switched groomers, and our dog is now thriving. The new groomer regularly compliments his temperament and grooming readiness—there have been no issues since the change.

While we still shop at The Pet Shoppe and appreciate the retail team (4.5/5 for the store itself), we strongly caution pet owners about the grooming services. Based on our experience, we’d rate the grooming a 1/5 and hope the business takes feedback seriously to ensure no other pets are put in a similar situation.

T B.

Took my lil energetic lil guy here for grooming this morning and they did it in just over 1 hr. He looked so amazing and happy. We are very pleased with his hair cut. Thanks for the great experience

Suba T.

Highly recommend! Shay has been our dog’s groomer for the last few years and has provided exceptional care and service for our golden doodle. Shay takes the time to create a loving relationship with our dog. My dog always loves going in for his grooming appointments. She also addresses any concerns we may have regarding his coat’s health. We are very pleased to have found a great groomer for that our dog adores!

rita N.

I have been taking my 50 pound dog to Shay at the Pet Shoppe for years. They have always done a great job,and he trots off with them for his grooming. Before I started taking him here he was terrified when I would take him for grooming to the point where I had to give him tranquilizers. Shay put a stop to that. She is very professional and discusses aspects of your dogs health and grooming. I am very happy with them.

Maryanne

Shay has been an amazing groomer to many dogs of all sizes for MANY years, she puts what's best for the dogs and herself(& staff) first. She also puts a lot of time into continuing her education to do best by the dogs, is always honest with her clients and will do her best to work with any dog within her means.
Prices unfortunately have gone up for everything else in the world since covid - meaning grooming prices will also go up a bit to cover additional costs.
Hateful review aside, I would always recommend Shay!

On top of that, what a great pet store where the staff will (almost) always know your dog and be ready with a treat 💓

Cassandra N.

I’ve brought my cat Teo to Shay to get a brush out a few times now and I’m always super happy with the outcome. My cat is super fluffy and she always does an amazing job. Shay is super patient especially when he has some pretty nasty knots in his fur she always takes her time to remove them as gently as possible. If I could I’d give a 10 star rating!

Kaitlyn R.

We've been taking our dog named Senza to see shay for many years. She is an amazing groomer and really connects with the animals. The shop has a great variety of products as well as knowledgeable and friendly staff. Highly recommend! The only place a go for my fur baby.

Chris M.

We have been taking our Golden Doodle - Chloe - to Shay for grooming for four years now! Chloe loves to go see Shay and always comes back with a beautiful cut. Shay's service is fantastic and has always been able to accommodate booking Chloe in around our schedules. Shay and her team go above and beyond! Would definitely recommend!