Shaving the pads of the feet: many breeds grow hair between the pads of their feet. Dirt and other debris can get stuck in this hair, which makes the dog feel the way we do when we have a rock in our shoe. Getting rid of that hair will also reduce the amount of dirt/mud that is tracked into your house.
Sanitary area: Overgrown hair in the groin area can lead to urinary tract infections in both male and female dogs. It can also cause pet excrements to get stuck in the hair and trailed through your home.
Anal glands: If your dog is scooting his/her behind on the ground, the anal sacs may be full. If they are not emptied, they can become impacted and infected. We release glands externally (veteranarians release them internally). It is done by request at no additional charge.
Matting: Brushing out exccesive matts can be extremely uncomfortable for the animal, as well as labor intensive and therefore more expensive. Often, you and the groomer will agree it is in the animal's best interest to use clippers instead. It will result in a short haircut, but is far more comfortable for the animal.
How Much Does Grooming Cost?
The cost of a professional grooming depends on the size and temperment of the dog, the condition of the coat, and the cut you are requesting. Please understand that it is difficult for a groomer to give an accurate quote over the telephone without seeing the dog, as two dogs of the same breed may require very different amounts of work. Your groomer can give you a "starting price" over the phone, but your best bet is to bring the dog in and discuss specifics of the haircut with your groomer. You can receive an estimate before any work is done on your dog.
Should I have my dog groomed year round?
Simply answered, yes. The benefits and necessity of grooming are not seasonal. There is always the need to keep up with pet hygiene and the basics of grooming in order to prevent foot problems, various infections, matting, discomfort, and many other health issues.
Often times, pets visit their groomers more often than their veterinarians. Professional groomers get to know your pets very well. we can notice changes in your dog's behaviour, skin condition or growths, eyes, hearing, etc. Professional groomers are NOT veterinarians and do NOT have the clinical expertise needed to make a diagnosis. However we will bring any changes to your attention so we can work together to ensure that your dog gets the care he/she needs.
Every professional grooming
includes a bath, blow dry, cleaning and plucking (when appropriate) of ears, clipping and/or grinding of nails, shaving the pads of the feet, cleaning sanitary areas, anal gland release (upon request), and haircut.
Cleaning and plucking ears: it is important to keep the ears clean to avoid infections. Some breeds grow hair in their ears that need to be plucked to help prevent infections, mites, and other health issues. It is often a professional groomer who alerts a dog owner to foul smelling ears and infections that may need veterinary attention.
Clipping/grinding nails: If you hear clicking on the floor when your dog walks, his/her nails may be too long. Nails need to be trimed once a month. Nails that are too long can injure the dog's nail beds, cause splayed feet that are painful to walk on, and the nails can grow into the dog's skin. Regular trimming will also prevent the blood vessel in the toenail (the quick) from growing too long. Long quicks will result in bleeding and discomfort when the nails are finally trimed.