Ready to give your pup the best pamper session they deserve? Knowing what to do before, during, and after a dog grooming appointment can help make the experience a positive one for both you and your fur baby.
This blog will share some tips and tricks on how to ensure your dog’s grooming appointment is as stress-free as possible. Let’s grab our pup’s favorite treats, and their trusty brush, and get ready for an enjoyable groom!
Choose a Reputable Groomer
Choosing a reputable groomer for your dog is an important decision that requires research and due diligence. Start by talking to fellow dog owners and vet clinics for appointments or referrals.
When you contact the groomer, ask questions about their certifications, training, experience, insurance coverage, and fees. You should also request a consultation before making an appointment to meet the groomer and view their facility in person.
Be aware of the signs of a good, reputable groomer like Dog Grooming Madison such as the cleanliness of premises, presence of medical supplies (including antibiotics), use of all-natural products to avoid skin irritation or allergic reactions, knowledgeable staff members willing to answer questions easily, and with confidence in their work, proof of certification or membership in professional organizations upon request.
It is also important to choose a groomer who respects your pet’s paws — choose someone who will take time to make sure your dog is comfortable during the grooming session.
Your pet should be given plenty of breaks throughout the grooming appointment if needed. It is important that you feel comfortable with how the facility handles animals and share any concerns you may have before leaving your pet there.
Before a Dog Grooming Appointment:
Before you schedule a dog grooming appointment, there are a few things that you should do to ensure the safety and comfort of your pet.
First, make sure that all paperwork associated with your pet is up to date. If a groomer is aware of any allergies or medical conditions prior to the appointment, it may help prevent potential harm from certain treatments. Make sure all vaccinations are current as well.
Next, brush your pets’ fur and remove any knots they may have – being proactive will drastically reduce the amount of time required for the grooming session and result in a much happier pup!
Finally, consider what breed-specific cuts or styles would best suit the lifestyle and habits of your pup – an active dog with thick fur may not be comfortable in a precise buzz cut while a show dog will likely require special attention depending on his coat type. Quizzing your groomer beforehand could result in better prep work on their end as well as yours!
During an Appointment:
During a dog grooming appointment, your canine pal needs to feel comfortable and secure in order to have a positive experience.
This is why it is important to find a qualified groomer who is experienced with doggy behavior, as well as one who is willing to take the time to understand your pet’s needs.
Once you are at the groomer’s facility, some of the activities that will take place during appointments include:
-Visually inspect your dog for any skin conditions, fleas/ticks, or parasites.
-Examining your pet’s nails and providing nail trimming if necessary.
-Brushing out the fur coat and removing any mats or tangles which can cause stress and discomfort for your pup.
-Cleaning out their ears by removing wax buildup and doing a visual inspection for any medical conditions or parasites.
-Bathing your pup in warm water with a gentle shampoo formulated specifically for dogs.
-Performing any haircut/trim that you requested as part of his/her grooming appointment
– depending on the breed type different types of clippers may be used on specific areas of their coat.
-Applying flea/tick treatment if you requested it prior to bringing him/her in for grooming (this should never be used more than once every two months).
-Providing anal gland expression relief if that was requested prior to the visit (this should only be done by trained professionals).
At this point, once all activities listed above are completed, the groomer should review any special instructions that you or the lifestyle management team have noted with regard to breed standards, etc… Once this is completed it will signify the end of your dog’s session at their facility.
Monitor the Groomer
During the grooming appointment, periodically check on your pup to ensure he or she is comfortable with the process. Be sure to provide assurance and praise throughout the appointment, as this will help detox anxiety or emotional stress during the grooming process.
Additionally, show interest in their methods by asking questions like how long they expect it will take, what kind of product they are using, and how long should you anticipate in between grooming appointments based on your pup’s individual needs.
What to do after?
Once the grooming appointment has been completed, be sure to praise your pup for his or her great behavior. After the groomer leaves, it is also important to give your dog some time to relax before bringing him or her home. This will help ease the transition back into regular home life.
When you get back home, give your dog a thorough once-over and make sure they have not gotten cold or overly stressed from the process. During this time, you can replenish any food or water levels that may have declined during the appointment and increase exercise as needed for further calming down.
Finally, reward your pup for their patience by offering them special treats such as chews and/or toys that they can enjoy post-appointment relaxation sessions!
Provide Positive Reinforcement
Provide positive reinforcement both before, during, and after a dog grooming appointment. This is important because it helps set expectations for future visits and reinforces that the grooming experience can be a positive one.
Before the appointment, discuss with your groomer how they prefer to handle your dog and what methods they use to ensure their safety while they’re being groomed. This will help you feel more comfortable with the process.
During the grooming session itself, offer treats or verbal praise when your pup behaves well- this helps create that positive association with being groomed. Additionally, give your dog breaks during their appointment as needed. If they seem to be getting overly anxious or tired, let them take a break between activities or sections of their grooming session. It’s okay to take it slow!
Schedule Follow-up Appointments
While a groomer can only do so much in one appointment, regular grooming helps to keep your dog looking and feeling its best.
It’s important to plan regular grooming appointments for your pet. Depending on the type of coat and breed of your dog, you will likely need to schedule follow-up appointments between four and eight weeks apart for brushing and trimming.
