Pros
Training is unsurpassed! It is very thorough, specific and useful. I've learned a lot about myself, being a better employee, and my current profession while working here. Bathers who show potential have the option to become groomers. PetSmart pays to put you through a grooming academy in exchange for signing a two year contract. Excellent opportunity! My current store manager is phenomenal. He has an open-door policy and is very down-to-earth and understanding, but he knows how to gets things done and is helpful. My salon manager has been exceptionally helpful with helping me arrange my schedule so that it fits with my college schedule. Customer service procedures and policies are very natural and comfortable. With new management, environment is welcoming and friendly. Very personal and close-knit group.
Cons
Some policies are tedious. Customer surveys are a major focus. One wrong survey is a big deal. Tensions run high sometimes and atmosphere can be excessively competitive due to the commision based pay for the groomers. Bathers sometimes get taken advantage of by ambitious groomers. Managers are given lots of freedoms. With a good manager this causes no problems. However, I've had experiences here with managers who should have been legitimately fired but were able to get by under the radar.