Pet Services

Your Puppies First Groom

Your Puppies First Groom

A Puppy's first visit to a groomer should be a pleasant time for the little one. Here are some things you can do to make that first visit easier on everyone involved:

Good grooming begins at home. Start the pups first session about 20 minutes after a meal. The puppy will settle down at this time and is possibly a bit sleepy. Use a soft brush and comb. Don't be surprised if the puppy wiggles about. Don't give in when this happens, just slow your hand motions and when he stops fussing, praise him and quit for a while, returning to it later. If there are still problems after a few sessions consult with a groomer or vet about handling techniques. If you bathe the puppy at home, be sure there are no knots in the hair coat before you begin. Knots tighten as they dry making them more difficult to remove. If you find knots that are too tough to remove gently with a comb, visit your groomer. Do not use scissors to cut the knot out- a tight knot can actually pull skin into the knot and you might cut the skin. During these sessions, gently handle the feet, toes, ears and tail areas. The puppy will accept this handling as bonding and allow it as a matter of course from the groomer.

When the puppy has had its second set of immunizations, make the first grooming appointment. (Many groomers require the pup to have had their shots before handling- they are concerned with your pets health as well as that of other customers pets.) The younger the grooming process begins, the easier it is for everyone involved.

Schedule your first few appointments 2 to 3 weeks apart, then lengthen the time between grooms gradually. Plan a couple of short "get acquainted" visits before the first grooming, meeting with the groomer and getting some treats for the puppy. On the first visit the groomer may choose to only bathe, brush and trim the face, feet and rear of the pup, along with cleaning ears and trimming nails. Many groomers may not do a full haircut at this time- that can be too much for the pet to accept comfortably. Expect the puppy to stay about 4 hours. Your pet won't be worked on this whole time, but allows for services to be performed in phases and is long enough to familiarize him with the surroundings. If your groomer attaches bows be sure to remove it and re-attach it every 2 or 3 days to ensure that it doesn't become knotted in the hair. Bandanas should be removed when the puppy is put in a crate or left alone for long periods.

Remember- all pets (just like their human friends) are individuals and may deviate from these plans just a bit, but following these guidelines will go a long way towards your pets health and happiness. If you have questions about your puppies first groom or anything regarding your pets care, please check our website http://www.carolsbows.com

About the author:  Carol is a Nationally Certified Master Groomer,  certified by the National Dog Groomers Association of America, Inc.  A pet groomer since 1993, she attained National Certification in 2002.  To visit her website, click http://www.carolsbows.com  Here you will find her selection of dog bows, dog collar charms and further articles on care for your pet.