Clinical & Salon Overview
Nobody likes paperwork, but vaccination requirements are the reason grooming salons don't become disease outbreaks. Our rules are simple, they protect your pet as much as everyone else's, and they're non-negotiable. Here's exactly what we require in Memphis and why.
We require proof of current rabies vaccination for every dog and cat, plus age-appropriate core vaccines: DHPP for dogs, FVRCP for cats. Puppies and kittens mid-series need records of the shots they've received so far. These aren't arbitrary hurdles — grooming salons are high-contact environments. Dogs share airspace, surfaces, and the groomer's hands. An unvaccinated animal in that environment is at risk and puts every other animal at risk. One case of kennel cough traced to a salon can shut down appointments for a week and sicken dozens of pets.
Rabies vaccination isn't just our policy — it's Tennessee law.
Rabies vaccination isn't just our policy — it's Tennessee law. Dogs and cats over 12 weeks must be vaccinated against rabies, and groomers are entitled to ask for proof. The rabies certificate is the single most important document you can bring: it has the vaccination date, the expiration date, and your vet's information. Keep a photo of it on your phone permanently. If your pet's rabies vaccine lapses, get the booster before booking — we can't make exceptions, and neither can any reputable salon in Shelby County.
Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccination is strongly recommended for any dog visiting a salon, daycare, or boarding facility. It's a respiratory infection that spreads through the air — exactly the conditions of a busy grooming salon. Many salons, including ours, require it for regular clients. It's an inexpensive vaccine, often given as a painless nasal spray, and it protects against the most common salon-acquired illness. If your dog socializes anywhere, ask your vet about it at the next visit.
A photo or printout of your vet's vaccination records works.
A photo or printout of your vet's vaccination records works. The rabies certificate works. A vet's email works. What doesn't work: your word for it, a pet store receipt for a vaccine clinic with no dates, or "I'm pretty sure they're current." Records need to show the vaccine name, date given, and expiration or due date. Pro tip: ask your vet's office to text you a copy of the records after every visit, and keep them in a phone album labeled for your pet. You'll need them for groomers, boarders, daycares, and dog parks for the rest of your pet's life.
Young animals completing their vaccine series are welcome for age-appropriate services
Young animals completing their vaccine series are welcome for age-appropriate services — mini grooms, nail trims — with records of what they've received. Senior pets or medically fragile animals whose vets have adjusted their vaccine schedule: bring a note from your vet explaining the situation, and we'll work with you. Titer testing in place of boosters is a vet conversation; bring documentation and we'll honor a vet-directed plan. What we won't do is waive requirements on a promise — the rule protects your pet too.
Serving Pets Across Greater Memphis & Shelby County
Whether you live near Midtown, Germantown, Bartlett, Collierville, or Arlington, All About Pawz offers full salon appointments and concierge pet care.