4 minute read
Paw Quarterly • Winter 2023
PREPPING YOUR PUP FOR A DAY AT THE SPA
Have you added a new dog to the family over the holiday season, or are you planning to in the new year? Here are some easy steps you can take to help your pet learn to enjoy grooming, even if they aren’t a puppy anymore.
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INVEST IN PROPER EQUIPMENT
Research and invest in proper equipment for the coat in front of you.
Having the right tools for the job can save you and your dog from a lot of frustration. Brushes, combs, and shampoo can make a difference from coat to coat. Good quality nail trimmers are important too. Poor quality nail trimmers can crush the ends of nails instead of making a clean cut. If you prefer a dremel, a pet branded dremel isn’t always better. Do some research, or ask a professional for some quality advice.
CREATE A COMFORTABLE SPACE
A comfortable space in your home for grooming sessions will help create a positive experience.
A slightly raised, non-slip platform that is sturdy and big enough for your dog to comfortably stand or lay down on is ideal. Finding a way to safety tether your dog, or a second person to assist you, can be helpful to prevent them from wanting to walk away. Holding certain positions, such as three legged stands, can be difficult or even painful for some dogs without proper support. Creating a comfortable work space will help alleviate this type of stress.
TAKE THINGS SLOW AND CREATE A POSITIVE EXPERIENCE
Several short sessions spread out over a day or two every week can be more productive than one long session every couple of weeks.
Take things slow - you don’t have to touch every toe or brush every hair when you first start. Limit your beginning sessions to a handful of treats before giving yourself and your pup a break.
WORK WITH A PROFESSIONAL GROOMER
If you are apprehensive about trimming nails, try working with a professional groomer on a bi-weekly schedule to help your dog get used to the process.
Puppy nails grow especially fast, older dogs aren’t as active so their nails don’t get worn down as quickly, and overgrown nails can be very painful for any dog (not unlike poorly fitted shoes for humans).
Eventually you may be able to take over nail trimming at home, or lengthen the time between trims to once every 4 - 6 weeks. Trying to do it yourself when your dog is napping or having an unpleasant experience at home can make things worse for everyone.
REGULAR BATHING
Getting your dog used to regular bathing from a young age can be very beneficial. Common practice is every 4 - 6 weeks.
Today’s good quality pet shampoos and conditioners are not harsh like they were many years ago when people used to say not to bath dogs often.
Not only will your dog’s skin and coat be cleaner with regular bathing, but it’s also a good time to get your hands all over your pet to check for changes in their body. If bathing is part of a dog’s regular routine it can become an enjoyable experience.
EXCESSIVE SHEDDING AND TANGLED COATS
If you find your dog sheds more than expected, regular bathing, a blow out with a high velocity dryer, and a thorough brushing can help cut down on hair around the house.
If your longer coated dog is getting tangly, it is often better to work on it after being cleaned and conditioned to avoid breakage.
Be sure to always rinse your dog’s coat thoroughly and properly dry it after baths to avoid issues with product and moisture being trapped on your dog’s skin.
Nicole Vaughn, Grooming Manager Pawsitively Purrfect – With over twenty years of professional grooming experience, Nicole is always happy to help people keep their dogs clean and happy.
