Proper grooming and hygiene is not something that should be required of humans exclusively. Dogs, and other pets, should maintain proper upkeep to ensure they are healthy and operating at their fullest potential. Now, we can take care of ourselves, but our pets rely on us to uphold their standard of living.
The ideal time for your pet’s first visit to the groomer is once they are fully vaccinated, between 16-20 weeks. Most facilities won’t even accept dogs unless they have current vaccination records.
There are certain things you should evaluate before sending your pet, so do your research. First, make sure the facility is sanitary. There should not be a lot of hair or debris on the floor. The utensils should be clean. Second, engage in conversation with people in the waiting room. See if they are repeat customers. Third, make sure the staff is not too physical. Some animals can be rambunctious, so you want to see how staff members respond to those particular animals. Be aware of how well the workers maintain their poise when they encounter a hyper-active animal.
After selecting a groomer, you shold properly prepare your pet for their first experience. If you pet is nervous or overcome with anxiety, give them a treat upon arrival and let them know they are in a safe place. Let the groomer make initial contact while you’re present. Maybe brush them out yourself while talking to the groomer, to put them at ease.
After your pet comes home, make sure they received all services that were requested and that they were performed to your liking. If the fur was cut, look for abrasions or scratches— especially around ears. Sometimes pets won’t be still, and they wiggle. So, occasional nicks may occur. (On the initial visit you may need to hold them to ease their tension.) Make sure they do not have pain or discomfort and that their demeanor is still the same as it was before the appointment.
Your pet’s activity level will determine how often they need grooming appointments. If they are outdoors often and play a lot, then take them more. If they are inside the majority of the time and only go outside to pee, they may only need appointments every month or so. It may also depend on how your pet’s hair grows. Yorkies, for instance, may need more frequent trimming (every 2-3 weeks). It really depends on your preference, however. But, sending them to the groomer once a week for a pedicure is something I would deem unnecessary.
In between visits there are a few things you can do to ensure proper hygiene. I’m a strong believer of dental care. If your dog allows you, I believe in brushing their teeth every day because one of the most common diseases in dogs is dental disease. It often goes unnoticed because owners don’t look in their pet’s mouth on a regular basis. Also, make sure you clip their nails, and clean their ears to prevent ear infections.
It’s a misconception when it’s said not to bathe your dog more than once per month. If the dog needs to be bathed, do so. Then, replenish the oils. Humans bathe sometimes one to two times per day. We use lotion to replenish lost oils. Bathing dogs every day is somewhat “extra,” but once per week or bi-weekly is good. If your dog plays at the park up to 3 times per week, they will need to bathe more frequently. There are supplements in food (fish oil, for example) that can add moisture to the skin. There are also leave-in conditioners and mousse that can be rubbed on the skin to prevent drying out.
There are several components of the grooming process, and it may take a few visits before your pet is totally comfortable. Again, if your pet has anxiety issues, help them relax. Even Benadryl can help. Or, you may want to search for a mobile groomer who can come to your home. Some pets cooperate better in their own environment. Regardless of the route you take, your pet will be happy to know you are devoted to caring for them in the best way possible.