Dog grooming can be a very fulfilling line of work. You get to interact with pooches of all sizes and breeds and transform them into the clipped and clean creatures they deserve to be. But it can also be frustrating, especially if the pup has physical or mental health conditions you were not alerted to or if they don’t respond well to people. Fortunately, there are things owners can do to ensure that grooming appointments are as mutually rewarding as possible. Read on to learn what the experts suggest.
Aiden Taylor is a self-confessed ‘dog-lover’ and the driving force behind FurDooz, where he shares his passion and tips for grooming dogs and other pets.
Brush and groom them regularly
Groomers are well trained to respond and deal with different canine personalities, but they are not dog whisperers. You are the one who knows your dog better than any professional. And dogs tend to react badly to having someone demand their ears or, God forbid, clip their nails! So a vital thing is to prepare doggo for that fearful encounter with a groomer. The preparation should begin long before the actual visit – in fact, while the dog’s still a pup.
First off, make it a habit to regularly touch their paws. Dogs dislike having their paws touched, to put it mildly. But if you don’t acquaint them with the process early on, how can you expect them to face the utmost horror of having their nails clipped? It’s every dog’s worst nightmare, so you should do your best to alleviate the stress. You should also brush and groom them regularly. True enough, it’s a groomer’s job to do it. But if your dog’s coat is a mess, they’re in for a potentially traumatic experience. And you don’t want your first visit to the groomer to be the last!
Tell your groomer everything!
Before taking your dog to the groomer, especially if it’s their first visit or a new groomer, there are a few things to keep in mind. Prepare to tell your groomer EVERYTHING! Please be totally forthcoming about any behavioral issues, and definitely let your groomer know if your pup has had a previous bad experience or is nervous (and may bite) for trimming nails, scissoring around the face, etc. If your dog has any medical issues, disclose these during booking the appointment and again during check-in. These would include: the dog has a sore paw, had a back injury, is in heat (some groomers may not accept an unspayed female), has a history of seizures, etc.
Also, tell your groomer if your dog is on any medication or if they are allowed to receive any treats during grooming. Some, not all, groomers may treat your pet, and you won’t want this if your dog has reactions to oatmeal, for example. Always be kind and courteous, your groomer does a very physical job and wants the experience to be good for them, you, and especially your pet.
Wendie Patrick – Owner, Dogs of Pride & Finnessiam Health.
