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Imagine how you
would look and feel if you never bathed, brushed your hair, or
trimmed your nails. To be healthy and happy, your companion animal
needs basic grooming, too.
You can handle the brushing and other simple grooming procedures
yourself. This type of regular grooming helps build a close bond
between you and your pet, and keeps you informed of the condition of
his fur, skin, teeth, nails, and ears. In fact, it is not uncommon
to discover lumps, infections, and other problems during a thorough
grooming routine.
Should you take your pet to a professional groomer? The answer
depends on the type of pet you have and your comfort level. For
example, many people feel comfortable grooming their short-haired
cats, while owners of long-haired dogs prone to mats opt for
professional grooming. If you fall into the latter category, this
need not be a "hair-raising" experience for you, your pet, or the
groomer. The key is finding the right groomer to provide quality
grooming care for your pet.
What is grooming?
Grooming is more than just a hair cut. It may include bathing,
combing, brushing, clipping nails, cutting or shaving mats, cleaning
ears, and controlling external parasites.
Why choose a groomer?
You may not have the time, tools, experience, or physical ability to
adequately groom your pet. For example, some animals (like poodles)
have their fur groomed into particular styles that require a
professional. Or a pet may require regular or seasonal clipping,
medicated or flea baths, removal of skunk odors or harmful
substances, or removal of matted fur. Typically, a trained
professional can more safely and humanely handle tricky procedures
and temperamental or frightened animals. (Removing severe mats
should always be done by an experienced groomer to avoid accidental
cuts.) Keep in mind, however, that professional groomers aren't
miracle workers; it's up to you to stay on top of your pet's
grooming needs.
Where can I find a groomer?
Start with a recommendation from a friend, veterinarian, boarding
kennel, dog trainer, pet supply store, or animal shelter. Check the
Yellow Pages under "Pet Grooming." You can also contact the National
Dog Groomers Association of America; a link to its website is
provided below.
Some groomers are registered or certified by a grooming school or
professional association, but no government agency regulates or
licenses pet groomers. Check with your local Better Business Bureau
to see if any complaints have been lodged against a grooming
facility. Then, after narrowing your search, call groomers to ask
about services, costs, and hours of operation. Also request the
names of a few current clients to interview.
How do I evaluate a grooming facility?
Before selecting a groomer, tour the facility. Here are some factors
to consider during your evaluation:
• Is the facility well-lit?
• Does it look and smell clean?
• Does the staff appear knowledgeable and caring? Do they handle
pets gently?
• Are cages adequately sized? Are dogs and cats caged in separate
areas?
• Are pets monitored regularly to prevent overheating during
blow-drying?
• Does the groomer keep complete pet records (including grooming,
medical, vaccination, and emergency contact information)?
How much does grooming cost?
Grooming costs vary depending on where you live, your pet's species
and size, the severity of matting, and the simplicity or difficulty
of the cut. An average fee is $35 for a shampoo and brushing, and
$40 for a shampoo and cut. More extensive grooming services cost
more. Expect to pay $10–15 more for mobile grooming services that
come to your home.
How can I ease my pet's fears?
It's important for your pet to tolerate being groomed, regardless of
how often you take him to a professional. To train your pet, groom
him briefly when you're both relaxed. For example, begin by gently
massaging his coat each morning as you feed him. Gradually introduce
a brush or comb. Each day, increase the grooming time and work on
different areas. Reward your pet for cooperating. The more
comfortable your pet feels with home grooming and around strangers,
the better he'll tolerate professional grooming.
What should I do before the first visit?
For the health and safety of both your pet and the groomer, make
sure your pet is up-to-date on veterinary treatment, including
vaccines and sterilization. Spayed and neutered pets are generally
calmer, and sterilized dogs are less likely to bite. (Sterilized
pets also enjoy many health benefits and do not contribute to pet
overpopulation.) A pet who is particularly nervous or difficult to
handle makes the grooming process stressful for both your pet and
the groomer. If this sounds like your pet, work with an animal
behavior specialist or dog trainer.
When making the appointment, inform the groomer about your pet's
needs. To provide special handling, the groomer must know in advance
whether your pet is geriatric or has a chronic health condition.
Also warn the groomer about any habits that could interfere with
safe and successful grooming. Keep in mind, too, that groomers are
not licensed to dispense tranquilizers; if your pet needs sedation
to be groomed, find a veterinarian who employs a groomer. Finally,
when you drop your pet off at the groomer, bid your pet good-bye
quickly: Emotional departures will increase your pet's stress level.
When you pick up your pet, both of you will enjoy that clean,
mat-free coat that makes pets—and their people—more comfortable.
Information courtesy of the Humane Society of the United States
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