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Sunday, 14 March 2010

How To Choose A Groomer

How to Choose a Groomer

In today’s world, dogs are not treated as dogs. They are treated as our children. Next to veterinary care, grooming is the most important necessity in taking care of your canine companion. Some people do not even know that their breed of dog needs to be groomed.

How does one choose a groomer? The best way to find a groomer is word of mouth. If someone has a groomer they like, chances are you will to. The internet is also a vast resource to finding a groomer. Another option is calling the local Chamber of Commerce for a recommendation. An additional option would be checking the Yellow Pages.

Once you choose your prospective groomer, ask them the following questions:

1. Did you go to a grooming school? If they did, they would be more experienced with the correct breed styles, safety and handling of the pet. If they didn’t, it doesn’t mean they do not know how to groom, someone may have taught them.

2. How long have they been in business? Is it an established business or is it a new shop?

3. What is their experience with your breed of dog? Every year the American Kennel Club adds new breeds to the AKC.

4. How long will take to groom the pet? Some shops keep the dogs all day while some shops do them in shifts so they don’t have to stay all day.

Take the time to establish a relationship with your groomer. Ask questions. Take a tour of the grooming shop. You and your dog both need to be comfortable with your groomer. This extra time to find the right groomer for your dog will provide a safe and happy experience for you and your dog.

Lynn Edwards is the Owner of Dirty Dogs Pet Services. She has been grooming for 12 years. She owns a grooming shop and a mobile grooming van. She was voted 2009 Best Mobile Grooming in Hudson Valley Magazine. Any questions please contact at ledwards@dirtydogsonline.com

POSTED BY: Lynn Edwards AT 01:39 pm | Permalink | E-mail this

CALLING ALL DIRTY DOGS

Dirty Dogs Quote of the Week:: “Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole” Roger Caras

The cold weather is finally here. We were very lucky this year with a warm November. Now that the weather is cold, we must not neglect our furry companions this time of year. We recommend that you still have your dog groomed during the winter months, usually every six to eight weeks. If your dog gets a haircut, you may not want to have it cut as short as you normally do. I personally suggest that you keep your dog the same length all year round. Their coat keeps them warm in the winter and insulates them from the heat in the summer. That does not, however, mean that you don't have your dog groomed during the cold weather. They still need their nails and pads clipped, maintenance groin clip, ear cleaning, deshedding {removes dead hair} and a bath. Oatmeal and aloe vera baths are great for this time of year when the dogs spend most of their time indoors with the heat on. Your groomer must make sure your dog is bone dry before leaving the shop. If your dog does get his hair cut, you may want to buy them a jacket or sweater. I prefer fleece, flannel or nylon. I have a Standard Poodle, Michael, that I keep his hair not to long and not to short, and a full length jacket keeps those awful snowballs from sticking to his legs and belly. I don’t seem to have any luck with sweaters. They seem to knot Michael’s hair while the other materials do not. If you want your dog to wear booties, you may have to practice in the house several times before trying the great outdoors. Please keep in mind if your dog does not wear booties, you need to check their pads when they come in from the snow. They can get little ice balls in their pads which can cause frost bite. Also, be careful of using rock salt. This may be irritating to your dog’s feet. There are products like Soft Paw that specifically make salt that is safe to use for your pet.

Hopefully the cold weather will pass quickly and before you know it spring will be here. In the mean time, please keep your pet warm, healthy and happy.

~Lynn Edwards

About Lynn Edwards: Lynn Edwards is the owner of Dirty Dogs Pet Services. She has been grooming for nine years. She owns two grooming/retail stores and a mobile grooming service. Her company focuses on using and promoting all natural pet products.

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