Grass Seeds
Grass seeds can be highly dangerous to your dog as they can pierce your dog’s skin and can cause an array of problems if not spotted early and removed. During the summer months it is not uncommon for me to find them on dogs during their grooming session. It is important to regularly examine your dog throughly at home in combination with keeping them on a regular grooming schedule. A short and practical haircut will help reduce the chances of them picking up grass seeds on their coat and also will make it easier for you to spot them if they do.
Dewclaws
Dewclaws are located higher up on the inside of a dog’s leg (sometimes hard to see if they are fluffy!) . Dewclaws are not worn down with road walking like their other nails can and so its important they are monitored and trimmed when necessary. If they grow and aren’t trimmed then they can curve round on themselves (as pictured), crack and/or even penetrate the skin.
Hot Weather
My salon is equipped with air- conditioning, cooling mats, fans and plenty of cold water is available in bowls which will keep your dog cool whilst in my care.
However, please keep your dog safe and avoid walking to me in extremely hot weather or in a car with no air conditioning. I am happy to postpone your appointment free of charge if you cannot get them to me safely, although would appreciate as much notice as possible.
Spay/ neutering operations
If your dog is booked in at the vets for their spay/neutering operation then it is important to allow them time to recover and heal from this before bringing them to me for a groom.
Vets usually recommend waiting at least 14 days post spay/neutering op before getting them professionally groomed. Please check with your vet, they should be able to tell you whether it’s ok for them to be groomed when you take them for their post-op checkup.
Dental Care
Did you know over 80% of dogs show signs of dental disease by the time they reach three years of age?
The best and most cost effective way to take care of your dog’s dental health is to regularly clean their teeth with a toothbrush and dog toothpaste at home. If you have a puppy try and get them used to this early on in life so it becomes part of their routine. In combination with home maintenance, it is worth having regular checkups with the vet to ensure their teeth are in good condition and do not require a professional clean under anaesthetic. If you don’t have time brush your dog’s teeth everyday then even 1-2 times a week will be better than nothing and could save you £££ in the long run as will hopefully prevent your dog needing dental work at the vets further down the line!