Inslee Releases Guidelines For Pet Grooming In Phase 2

WASHINGTON — Gov. Jay Inslee has released new guidance explaining how pet grooming services can operate during Phase 2 of the state's Safe Start plan.

Under Phase 2, a variety of businesses can get back to work, including pet groomers, retailers, bars, restaurants and more. However, all returning businesses must practice new, industry-specific, coronavirus safety guidelines.

When Phase 2 begins and the pet grooming operations get back to work, they must:

• Limit clients to 50 percent occupancy or lower.
• Provide personal protective equipment like masks and gloves to employees.
• Maintain a six-foot separation between employees and clients at all time for safe social distancing.
• Only allow clients in through the front door. All other access points should be barred.
• Pet owners must be held to safety guidelines including:
  • Clients must self-screen for coronavirus symptoms before going to the groomer.
  • Customers cannot bring guests with them.
  • Pet owners should call or text ahead to tell the groomer they have arrived and are waiting to enter the building.
  • Payments should be ideally made with cards to avoid using money as much as possible.
• Clients and employees alike must be provided access to soap, water, and hand sanitizers for frequent hand washing and sanitization.

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10 Washington counties have already been cleared to enter Phase 2 of Inslee's Safe Start plan to reopen the economy. The rest of the state is expected to enter Phase 2 on around June 1, barring any major outbreaks. The governor also announced Monday that dentist offices and small family medical practices can reopen their offices immediately if they meet select safety guidelines.

Read the full guidance from the governor on pet grooming here.