Henderson Dog Grooming

Dog and cat grooming part 4

Dog Grooming – Cat Grooming

A Groomer’s How To – by Candy Levine Doppert

Teeth brushing is an important part of health care, especially in smaller dogs. Some groomers provide this service and some don’t. My theory is that if you are not going to make this a daily routine at home, one teeth brushing session at the groomers every 3 months, isn’t going to make much of a difference. There are a few ways to get your dog/cat familiarized with teeth brushing. Purchase a rubber tipped messaging brush that fits on your finger tip and just rub this inside their mouths to get them use to the feel of it. No need for toothpaste at this point, you just want your pet to feel comfortable with this procedure first. After a couple of weeks or so, purchase toothpaste.

They have a variety of flavours to entice your animal to enjoy this whole experience. After they have gotten use to this, you can try using a regular pet’s toothbrush. Purchase doggie treats that help lessen the tartar build-up and something that makes them want to chew. For example, Dentabones & Greenies products are good, try to stay away from the rawhides, because they are not easily digestible in the stomach, and can cause a build-up inside the intestines & stomach. Of course, dental visits with your veterinarian are a must.

As you can see, our pets need a lot of love & care. Cats and dogs cannot look after themselves alone; they need their ‘human family’ for all of their needs. They can’t always tell us when something is bothering them, or if they are in discomfort. At least with a regular grooming regimen, skin problems, fleas, lumps & warts, or any other kinds of skin conditions, can be discovered just by a routine visit to your groomer. Your groomer can be your first link to discovering some skin problems, and can suggest, along with your vet, proper shampoos that can help turn the problem around.

“ Don’t be afraid to ask our groomer for tips!” Even if you think it may be a stupid question at the time, never let that stop you from getting the information you need. Many groomers do genuinely care about your pets’ needs, and are there to help you in any way they can. Your special family member deserves a long, happy & healthy life. They were special enough to be chosen to be part of your family, make sure that they stay that way.

… “Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole”