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.
