Getting the Most Out of Your Dog’s Grooming Experience
Visiting the groomer can be an exciting time for you and your pet. The following tips will help you get the most out of your dog’s grooming experience.
- Bring a photo of your dog in the clip that you liked best, or print out a picture of the style that you would like to see on your dog.
- Whenever possible, discuss the trim, style or clip with the groomer that will be working on your dog. They will be able to tell you if your dog has the right type of coat texture and length for the look you wish to achieve. They will also be able to check for any matting or tangles that might limit the type of cut that can be done.
- Remember that if you do not take the time to brush and comb out your pet’s fur, then there will only be so much that your groomer can do without causing your pet pain. If the coat is a matted mess, the only humane thing that can be done is to shave it off and start over.
- You are paying a professional for their experience and advice, if they tell you that a certain style cannot be done, then they are probably right. While asking questions is always a good idea, allow yourself to be guided by the groomer’s recommendations.
- If you have a puppy that is new to the grooming experience, or if you have a difficult adult dog, DO NOT expect perfection for at least the first two to three visits.
- Do not take your dog to a different groomer every time. It is important to develop a good relationship with your groomer while allowing your pet to do the same.
- When dropping off your dog, don’t hover or transfer your uncertainty to them. Make it a quick and upbeat drop off and be excited and pleased when you pick them up. This way your dog will learn to anticipate pick-up time.
- Try not to arrive early for pick-up. If you must wait for your pet, don’t knock on the window where they can see you and keep quiet while the groomer finishes. Dogs tend to get excited when they see or hear their owners, making it difficult to complete the groom, and increase the chance of injuries.
- Don’t arrive late for your appointment. Professional groomers are very busy. If you will be more than ten minutes late, call the groomer to make sure that you can still bring your pet in.
- Arrive on time to pick up your pet. A grooming salon is not a free pet sitting service. There are typically other pets waiting for your dog’s space.
- If you use a mobile groomer, it is extremely important to be home when your groomer is scheduled to arrive.
- If your dog was matted when it arrived for grooming, it probably has some skin conditions. Heavily matted coats are often hiding rashes and oozing sore spots. A dog that has had its matted coat removed will usually scratch excessively. This scratching can lead to further skin irritation and sometimes bleeding. This is a reaction to the mats and is in no way the fault of the groomer.
- Always let your groomer know in advance if your dog is difficult to groom. A severe bite to the face or hand can end a grooming career and put a groomer in the hospital for weeks at a time. Do not allow an unsuspecting groomer to take the brunt of your difficult dog’s aggression.
- It’s always a good idea to walk your dog before dropping it off at the groomer. A nice walk gives your dog a chance to do its business and get some energy out before it must sit still on a grooming table.
Claws N Paws Day Spa offers quality pet grooming services in Orange County, California. For more information, or to schedule a grooming appointment please call 714-962-1005.
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