A pet grooming station includes an electrically actuated separable coupler mechanically coupled between a tether point and a lead to a collar or a noose. At least one pressure sensitive mat is adapted to sense a presence of a person standing on the at least one pressure sensitive mat. The electrically actuated separable coupler is in a coupled state when the pressure sensitive mat senses the presence of the person standing on the mat. Or, when the person is not standing on the mat, the electrically actuated separable coupler separates following a predetermined or selectable time delay in a range of about 0 to 2 seconds. An upgrade kit or modification kit for a pet grooming station and a method for safely grooming an animal on a grooming table are also described.