Reducing Your Pet’s Stress When Visiting The Groomer
Pets can experience a significant amount of stress when visiting a pet salon, especially for the first time. While it might not be possible to completely eliminate their stress, there are ways to ensure that it is minimized during these visits.
An important first step is to make sure that your pet’s arrival to the grooming salon is a pleasant one. As you enter the salon, talk to your pet in a happy tone of voice that communicates that this will be a nice experience. Always avoid using anxiety ridden tones, as this will solidify your pet’s fears. Offer treats to your pet upon arrival and provide extra treats for your groomer to offer them. For cats, dropping a bit of canned tuna through the door of their pet carrier can work wonders.
When you bring your cat to the grooming salon, make sure that any wire, or parts that they can see through, are covered. This will ensure that your cat will not become frightened by unfamiliar sights. It is always best for your cat to remain in its carrier at the grooming salon as it is familiar territory that does not smell of other cats or dogs. Your groomer will take your cat out only for grooming and then return them to the carrier until it is time for them to go home.
Frequent socialization visits are an extremely important part of reducing stress for your pet. You should take your pet to the groomer often so that they can get to know the staff and become familiar with the facility. Consider bringing your pet to the groomer, even if they don’t require grooming. Have the groomer talk to your pet and offer them treats. These visits can help your pet understand that “bad things” don’t always happen when they visit the salon. Most groomers will be happy to accommodate these types of visits as they will make your pet easier for them to handle and care for.
Claws N Paws Day Spa offers professional pet grooming in Orange County, California. Our experienced groomers understand the anxiety that pet’s sometimes feel when visiting a pet salon. We will do our best to reduce your pet’s stress whenever possible. However, sometimes pets are too fearful for us to groom and must be taken to their veterinarian.
For more information or to set up your next grooming appointment, please contact us today!
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