When people visit a salon for a cut and style, it’s often to treat themselves. But pet grooming goes beyond just good looks; it is a necessity for all dogs. Whether it’s full-body grooming, a face or paw trim, a nail trim, or a nice bath, it’s important to make grooming part of your pet’s maintenance plan.

Reasons to bring your pet to a groomer

• Many pets do not like being groomed and become uncooperative, so it’s best to leave grooming to the professionals. We use positive methods to help your pet feel comfortable. Even something as routine and seemingly simple as cutting your pet’s nails can be difficult at home. Veterinarians often hear stories about well-meaning pet owners who accidentally cut the quick (the pink or black part on the inside of your pet’s nails), especially with black nails where the quick is difficult to see.
• Grooming also spreads natural, healthy oils from your pet’s skin throughout the coats, making it shinier and healthier. Aside from enhancing appearance, regular grooming helps maintain a pet’s healthy skin and coat. It removes unpleasant odours (especially those caused by encounters with skunks), loose fur, skin flakes, and debris, while preventing knots and matted fur. If you’d like, you can bring a specific shampoo for your groomer to use when your dog is being bathed. For some skin conditions, your veterinarian may recommend bathing your pet with a medicated shampoo as part of their treatment plan.
• Grooming can also be a preventative measure. When pets get shaggy, they are more likely to track dirt and mud into the house, and their longer hair/fur makes them bigger targets for ticks. Furthermore, moisture trapped underneath a matted coat leads to a lack of airflow, which can cause skin irritation and infection known as ‘hot spots.’

How often to bring your pet to the groomer

 Dogs’ grooming needs differ depending on their coat type, length, and their recent activities. For example, a dog who has been playing indoors most of the week is much less likely to need grooming than a dog who has been out playing in a muddy dog park.

Pets with short coats generally require less grooming compared to pets with medium- to long-haired coats. Dogs with short hair/fur often only need coat care and de-shedding in the spring and fall, and, of course, when they get exceptionally dirty.

Pets with longer coats tend to get tangles, mats, and debris trapped in them more easily. These breeds should typically visit the groomer every 4-6 weeks. Talk to your groomer for a recommendation.

Making grooming a positive experience

We recommend pets are exposed to the grooming process early in life with a positive approach like the one our veterinary clinic’s pet grooming salon has adopted. Kenmount Road Animal Hospital’s pet grooming salon books enough time to give your pet the best possible treatment. This is why it’s so important to let us know the exact condition of your pet’s fur, matting, and your requested style. Our groomer will take a good look at the condition of your pet’s coat and talk to you about what you’d like for your pet.

We take things slowly, so dogs of all ages feel relaxed and comfortable. We also teach your dog to associate grooming with the things they love. Here’s what to expect during your pet’s professional grooming experience: brush, bath, gentle moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, blow dry, style, and lots of love!

What to look for in a groomer

Good groomers will ask to see every pet’s up-to-date vaccines before administering grooming services. All pets must be fully vaccinated prior to their appointment and on a veterinary-prescribed flea and parasite medication. This is very important to us with our grooming services, so you can be confident your pet is in a healthy environment.

We can help your pet look and feel their absolute best, while keeping those pesky fuzzy tumbleweeds from taking over your home! Contact us today to set up a grooming appointment. 709-701-2030