Monday, September 22, 2008

Lets hear it for the Hairy people!



Sounds like a country song huh? I don't care if you are covered in dog hair, cat hair or horse hair, people with alittle hair on them are OK in my book. I says to me that you care more about being with your furry friends then looking like the latest fashion. Thats Twinkie my Jack Russell female. I carry her hair with me most days. She is notorious for climbing trees and needing help to get down. I have one other named Forrest. He is her son and I don't have a pic of him yet.
But usually I start my day with a hug from this little guy, I mean who could resist, Right?
So If your day hasn't started a little hairy make sure it ends that way.

later

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Whos the boss?

One of the funniest things I see at my grooming salon is the power struggle between the dog and owner. They usually arrive three ways. One the dog is bounding through the door with the owner trailing in the wind on the end of the leash, two dragging the dog through the dog or trying to baby talk and convince the dog to walk through and three, carrying the dog no matter what the size.

I always love to see the dogs bound through the door. I usually take that as they like to see me. But the usually leave just the same, like they couldn't get out fast enough.
Having to drag the dog through the door makes sense to me because most dogs think they smell or look just fine the way they are.
Carrying the dog is usually the least tramatic however unless they are the size of a yorkie or chihuaha that can be hard on the back. And if they are puppies it can be detrimental in their development.

I strongly suggest at all times if possible to bring your dog or puppy in on a leash. Not only for safety sake, but for proper obedience. It is much healthy for the dog who knows how to walk on a leash for sunny, warm days and also visits to the vet or family.

Well have a good day, time to play in the hair!

Monday, September 15, 2008

Click Here!

Hair Today Gone Tomorrow

Hair today, Oh yea lots of hair! And sure they leave just as fast as they come but the truth is you want them to come back. So if you are trying to pick a grooming salon to take your new puppy to let me give you some pointers.
  • First of all Is the actual groomer the one that greets you at the door and visits with you? That is the biggest in my mind that you should be aware of. Many big grooming salons have receptionist that handle all the check ins and outs. But don't settle for that. Your puppy will be nothing more than a number. I prefer a salon of one or two groomers. That way you know who is taking care of your puppy.
  • Second, is the puppy wisked away down some unknown corridor never to be seen again until you come back? Many customers have told me that there dogs dissappear to a room that they never see.

Bad News! Make sure you can tour or atleast ask to see the cages and pens the dogs stay in. My cage room is to my immediate left so I can see the dogs and they can see me which actually helps in seperaton anxiety. They know that they are not left all alone.

  • Third, cleanliness. Is the shop free of clutter? (less for dogs to pee on). The work station of the groomer is it as neat and tidy as it can be. Although during very busy hairy days, it may be a mess. Are their cleaning supplies in reach?
  • Fourth, how does your dog act when you pick him up? Are they excited and happy? They should feel good about themselves. Even though some dogs get embarassed from a haircut, they should within a day start to feel very good about themselves.

Also make sure your groomer addressed your concerns and groomed your dog the way you asked. She (he) should have asked many questions so they have in their minds exactly what you wanted.

You will be able to tell if your groomer actually cares about each dog by those questions. I've seen alot of groomers loose customers because they don't interact with them. I always ask questions and have a phone number if I have more questions.

I'm sure I left some things out but this will get you started when looking for a new groomer.

have a Yappy day!
Click Here!