How to Book and Manage a PetSmart Appointment

How to book a PetSmart appointment online or by phone

You can book a PetSmart appointment through their website, their mobile app, or by calling your local store directly. The online route is fastest: go to PetSmart.com, select "Services" from the main menu, choose your service type (grooming, training, or Banfield veterinary care), enter your zip code, and pick a location and time slot. The app works the same way and sends you reminders before your appointment.

If you prefer to call, find your store's phone number on the PetSmart locator and ask for the grooming or training desk. They can tell you what times are open in the next few weeks and book you on the spot. Some locations fill up faster than others, so calling ahead is useful if you need a specific day or time.

For Banfield veterinary appointments specifically, you can also book through Banfield's own website or app if your pet is already a patient there. Either way, you'll need your pet's name, breed, and age, plus your contact information.

Key Takeaways

• Book online at PetSmart.com or through the PetSmart app by selecting your service, zip code, and preferred time slot.
• Call your local PetSmart directly to check availability and book over the phone, which works well if you need a specific time.
• Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with your pet's vaccination records if you're seeing Banfield, and any medical history relevant to your visit.
• Cancellations and rescheduling can usually be done online or by phone up to 24 hours before your appointment.
• Grooming appointments typically take 1 to 3 hours depending on your pet's size and coat type; training sessions are usually 30 minutes to an hour.

What to bring and how to prepare your pet

For a grooming appointment, bring your pet on a leash or in a carrier, even if they're usually calm. Groomers work faster and safer when pets are already used to being handled by someone other than their owner. If your pet has any skin conditions, matting, or behavioral issues the groomer should know about, mention them when you book or arrive early to tell the staff in person.

For a Banfield veterinary visit, bring your pet's vaccination records, any previous medical records from another vet, and a list of current medications if your pet is on any. If this is your pet's first visit to Banfield, you'll fill out a health history form. Bring your ID and a payment method—Banfield accepts most credit cards and also offers CareCredit financing for larger procedures.

For training classes, bring treats your pet likes and wear comfortable clothes you don't mind getting dirty. Training sessions are hands-on, and you'll be working with your pet the whole time, not just dropping them off.

How long appointments take and what to expect

Grooming appointments vary widely by pet size and coat condition. A small dog with short hair might take 45 minutes to an hour. A large dog or one with a thick or matted coat can take 2 to 3 hours. When you book, the staff will give you an estimate based on your pet's breed and any special requests.

Banfield veterinary appointments usually run 20 to 45 minutes for a routine exam or vaccination visit. Dental cleanings, bloodwork, or other procedures take longer and may require your pet to stay for part of the day. The vet will tell you the expected timeline when you book.

Training classes are typically 30 minutes to an hour, and you attend with your pet. Some classes are drop-in, while others are multi-week courses where you come back at the same time each week.

Canceling or rescheduling your appointment

You can cancel or reschedule online through your PetSmart account or app up to 24 hours before your appointment. If you need to cancel within 24 hours, call the store directly. Some locations charge a cancellation fee if you don't give 24 hours' notice, though policies vary by store.

If your pet gets sick or injured and you need to reschedule a grooming appointment, call as soon as you know. Most stores will work with you to find another time without a fee if you're giving them notice. For Banfield appointments, the same rule applies—call the clinic directly if you need to change the date.

If you're running late, call the store right away. Groomers and vets have other appointments after yours, so letting them know gives them a chance to adjust their schedule. Some locations will still see you if you're 15 to 30 minutes late, but don't count on it.

Payment and pricing at PetSmart

PetSmart grooming prices depend on your pet's size, coat type, and the services you choose. A basic bath and trim for a small dog starts around $40 to $60, while a large dog or one with a thick coat can run $80 to $150 or more. Nail trims, ear cleaning, and other add-ons cost extra. Ask for a quote when you book so there are no surprises.

Banfield veterinary services are priced per service, not as a flat fee. A routine exam costs between $50 and $100 depending on your location. Vaccinations, bloodwork, and procedures cost more. Banfield also offers wellness plans—monthly subscriptions that cover routine care like exams and vaccines—which can save money if your pet needs regular visits.

PetSmart accepts credit cards, debit cards, and their own PetSmart credit card. Banfield accepts the same plus CareCredit, which lets you finance larger bills over time. Ask about payment plans if a procedure is expensive.

What to do if your appointment is delayed or canceled by PetSmart

If PetSmart cancels your appointment—usually because of staffing or an emergency—they'll call or text you as soon as they know. They'll offer to reschedule you at another time or location if available. If the cancellation is last-minute and you have nowhere else to take your pet, ask the manager if they can fit you in later that day or the next day.

If your appointment is running very late (more than 30 minutes), ask the staff for an update. Sometimes groomers or vets are behind because of an emergency with another pet, and they'll let you know how much longer to expect. If the delay is extreme and you need to leave, you can reschedule without a fee.

For Banfield specifically, if there's a long wait, ask if you can wait in your car or come back at a specific time rather than sitting in the lobby. Many clinics will text or call you when they're ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I stay in the room during grooming?

No, PetSmart groomers work in a separate area and don't allow owners in the grooming space. This keeps the environment calm for the pets and lets groomers work safely. You can pick your pet up when the appointment is done and see the results.

What if my pet has anxiety or aggression issues?

Tell the staff when you book or arrive. Groomers and vets are trained to handle anxious or aggressive pets, and they may recommend a quieter time slot, a shorter appointment, or sedation for a vet visit. Some pets do better with a specific groomer or vet, so ask if you can request the same person each time.

Do I need to bathe my pet before a grooming appointment?

No, most groomers prefer to bathe your pet themselves as part of the service. If your pet is visibly dirty or has something stuck in their coat, a quick rinse at home helps, but a full bath isn't necessary.

Can I book a same-day appointment?

It depends on availability. Call your local store or check the app to see if any slots are open today. Grooming and training appointments are easier to fit in same-day than Banfield vet visits, which often book weeks ahead. Walk-in grooming is sometimes available, but you may wait several hours.

What happens if my pet has a bad reaction to grooming or a procedure?

Tell the groomer or vet immediately. For grooming, they'll stop and let you know what happened—sometimes a pet just needs a break. For Banfield procedures, the vet will examine your pet and discuss next steps. If your pet has a serious reaction, Banfield can provide emergency care on-site or refer you to an emergency clinic.