bathing

Why Does Pet Grooming Take So Long?

Pet groomers hear this question all the time. While most people believe that grooming a pet is as simple as popping it into the bath and running a clipper over it, this couldn’t be further from the truth. From the moment that your pet enters a grooming salon it is being assessed.

It can be difficult for pet parents to notice small changes when they see their pet every day. However, competent groomers are able to spot many health problems and issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. While your pet is being groomed, your groomer is handling every single inch of its body. Your groomer serves as an early warning system, alerting you of any lumps, bumps, sores, wounds, nail issues, skin problems or restricted movements. If something is wrong, your groomer is bound to discover it. In addition, your pet groomer can offer you valuable advice on a variety of problems from training to dealing with the passing of a pet.

While your pet is being groomed it receives a number of different services. The ears will be cleaned and checked for signs of infection. When necessary, excess hair in the ears will be removed. Your pet’s teeth and gums are inspected for infection. Their nails are trimmed. When necessary, the hair between the pads is removed, and the sanitary area is clipped to promote optimal hygiene at home. Your pet’s skin and coat will be evaluated for the most suitable shampoo. Before its bath, your pet’s coat might need tangles removed or its undercoat blown out. Once in the bath, your groomer will check and express the anal glands and possibly soak your pet in a therapeutic shampoo. After its bath, your pets coat will be thoroughly dried and combed. If desired, your pets coat will be clipped and styled. This is only a small list of the steps involved in the grooming of your pet.

When a dog is regularly groomed every four to six weeks the grooming process typically doesn’t take very long. However, if your pet is extremely matted or dirty, you can expect them to stay for quite a while. For example, the dogs in the picture above took three groomers over three hours to finish. An experienced groomer will not rush the grooming process. They will do what is necessary to ensure that your pets coat is properly taken care of.

Claws N Paws Day Spa has been providing quality pet grooming services in Fountain Valley, California since 2001. For more information, or to schedule your next grooming appointment, please call 714-962-1005.

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Basics of Dog Grooming

Grooming is one of your dog’s basic needs. Just like people, dogs must be physically maintained in order to look and feel their best. Luckily, dogs don’t need to bathe as often as humans do. It is up to you to learn just how much grooming your dog actually needs. Typically a dog’s grooming needs depend on its breed and hair type. The following are the basics of dog grooming:

Hair brushing

A dog’s brushing needs depend largely on their hair type. Long-haired dogs typically require daily brushing in order to prevent tangling of the fur. Medium-haired dogs should be brushed weekly or more depending on how prone they are to matting. Short-haired dogs should be brushed every two to three weeks. Regardless of their hair type, dogs can be brushed daily if they enjoy it. Regular brushing not only keeps their coat shiny and healthy, but it will strengthen the bond between you and your dog.

Nail Trimming

Nail trims are usually the least favorite part of grooming for both dogs and their owners. Most dogs don’t like having their paws handled because they know how much it hurts to have their nails cut too short and pet parents are often uncomfortable with the process because they are afraid of hurting their dog. Dogs will develop an aversion to nail trimming once they have experienced pain from it. Ideally, nails should be trimmed by a professional groomer or veterinarian to avoid any injury or undue stress. Most dogs require monthly nail trims although some need less or more depending on their nail’s rate of growth.

Bathing

Most dogs should be bathed monthly, but bathing as often as once a week is not considered harmful. Dogs should be bathed with soap-free shampoo that is specifically made for use on dogs. Depending on the condition of your dog’s skin and coat, special shampoos might be necessary.

Ear care

Your dog’s ears can quickly become home to yeast and bacteria if they are not cleaned properly. Some dogs can go their whole lives without any ear problems, only requiring ear cleaning during their monthly bath. However, many other dogs suffer from chronic ear problems and require multiple ear cleanings each day.

Haircuts

Long haired dogs such as Poodles and Shih-Tzu’s need their hair cut every two to four weeks. This task is best left to a professional groomer who has the right tools and understands how to cut your dog’s hair without causing them injury.

Claws N Paws Day Spa offers dog and cat grooming in Orange County, California. For more information, or to schedule a grooming appointment, please call 714-962-1005.

Receive a free teeth brushing for your pet when you mention our blog!