8 Questions You Should Ask When Choosing a Groomer

May I see all your facilities?

-The shop should be clean and well-ventilated. Most dogs spend at least half a day there and should be comfortable and safe.

What services are included?

-Most places include a bath, brushing, ear and eye cleaning, nail trimming and complete drying service. Teeth cleanings are not usually included, but may be available for an additional charge. If your dog has special needs, make the staff aware of them. You may be able to bring preferred shampoos or ear treatments, for example.

·         Are certain vaccinations required before a dog is accepted for grooming?

-If there is a requirement, ask how compliance is documented. For example, on the first visit, does the owner need to present written proof of current vaccination?

·         Does the grooming facility has a policy on dealing with sick dogs that are presented for grooming?

·         How long does a grooming session last and how quickly you can pick up your dog?

-In some cases, you may leave your pet at the grooming location during the day. What kind of arrangements are made in these situations and are additional charges incurred?

·         How far in advance must I make an appointment?

-Most groomers can see your dog with only a few days notice, but make sure that they can accommodate you before you go.

·         Do you have emergency services?

-Dogs can be sprayed by skunks or roll in noxious substances.

·         Do you keep records of every visit?

-This is important information that may be needed by a vet at a later date

Grooming Tips: Select an option below to read.

+ Not Just For Appearance

Grooming your dog accomplishes much more than a nice, shiny coat. It gives you the opportunity to spend some quality time with your dog, combing, brushing, bathing and generally bonding with him. You will be able to check your dog closely for any problems while grooming. Move the hair aside and examine the skin closely for signs of flea, ticks or skin irritations. Look for any unusual problems with the coat such as mats, tangles, dandruff, etc. Mats and tangles can be carefully removed while grooming.

Learn where he likes to be combed and brushed and where he doesn't. All dogs have sensitive areas that need to be groomed a little more carefully than others. By paying special attention to these areas, you will make your dog more comfortable during grooming sessions and he’ll be less likely to resist in the future. You’ll also become familiar with areas he enjoys having groomed. This is helpful if you need to calm him at stressful times like veterinary visits.

Let your dog sniff the brush and comb before you begin grooming. Talk to your pet in a reassuring tone while grooming. If you create a comfortable grooming, he’ll begin to look forward to regular grooming sessions.

+ Health

Regular grooming is essential to your dog's health and well-being. Regular combing and brushing with good quality tools will keep the coat clean and healthy. It will stimulate the skin and allow natural oils to circulate through the coat. It will also allow you to carefully check for potentially serious problems. Check areas for hair loss, inflammations, unusual tenderness or lumps under the skin. Constant scratching in a particular area may also indicate a problem. Check with your veterinarian about any unusual problems found.

+ Combing

Comb in the direction of hair growth, combing small sections at a time, until the coat is tangle free. If the coat has a particularly stubborn knot or tangle, you may have to trim it off with scissors. You can also use special de-matting combs that are also available.

+ Brushing

Begin brushing at the head, working toward the tail and down the legs. Always brush in the direction of hair growth. Pay particular attention to the legs and flanks, as these areas easily mat. A pin brushcan be used to fluff the coat by brushing against the direction of hair growth. Regular brushing will help distribute the natural oils from the skin, producing a healthy, shiny coat. Brushing several times a week is recommended for most dogs.

+ Bathing

Most dogs should be bathed about once a month, but some need it more or less often. Use your nose- that tell-tale doggy smell is a sure sign that it’s time for a bath. If a dog is bathed too often the skin will be stripped of its natural, protective oils, resulting in dry itchy skin. If you need to bathe your dog more
frequently make sure to use a pet shampoo that will also moisturize your dog’s skin. You may also want to follow up with an after bath pet coat conditioner specifically formulated for dry skin.

+ Puppies

Like children, puppies have short attention spans. They will require some special attention. Select a time when the puppy is less energetic. Begin with short grooming sessions, five minutes or so. Constantly talk to your puppy in a gentle, reassuring tone while grooming to make him feel comfortable. Be sure to check his ears, paws, teeth, and underside during the grooming procedure. This will, in time, make him accustomed to being handled and examined. Eventually, he will be quite comfortable being groomed, and will look forward to these sessions with you.

+ Frequency

It is important to establish and adhere to a regular schedule of grooming sessions. Schedule these at a convenient time for both you and your dog. A good time to do this is after the dog has been walked, while he is relieved and calm. Select a time when you will not be interrupted and have ample time to do a proper grooming.
Longhaired dogs should be groomed daily, while shorthaired breeds may require grooming only twice a week. You will soon see what frequency your dog requires.

+ Nail Trimming

Regular nail trimming keep your dog healthy and comfortable. Never use ordinary scissors to trim your dog's nails. Use trimmers that are specially designed for dogs. Hold the dog's paw firmly and cut off the tip of the nail with a single stroke. Be very careful to stop short of the quick, the blood vessel inside the nail. Cutting the nails right after bathing will make the quick more visible. You can also apply baby oil to achieve this.