Ask Pet Vet Guest Article on Dog Grooming - AskPetVet is Not responsible for content

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Pet Grooming Made Easy
by: Gary Allison

One of the most asked questions that I get before someone buys a puppy is does the breed require much grooming. Some potential owners don�t mind and the others do. This article is for the latter and how you can make pet grooming easier. In order to groom your dog you have to get you dog use to water. There are several steps that you need to take in order to accomplish the task.

Dogs do not like to take baths. Lets face it you are going to groom your pet properly you are going to have to give him the dreaded bath. One of the ways you can start getting your dogs to like water is to introduce your dog to it. If you have a swimming pool take your dog out there with you. Depending on the size of your dog you can sit the dog on your lap as you float around. You can also have a friend stand at one side of the pool and you at the other and put your dog in there. Both of you can encourage the dog to come to the other. Take the dog to the lake for the day and get you dog in the water. If you do this often you will find it easier to get your dog in the bathtub. In fact some dogs do like to take baths. One word of caution is don�t just throw the dog into the water as that may scare him badly and then you�ll have to start from square one.

In the bathtub your dog should feel relaxed. If he isn�t quite use to the water yet you can say soothing words to help him. The sound of your voice can reduce tension in your dog. You dog loves you and loves to hear your voice of calm gentle words.

Make the bath as comfortable as possible. If you�re scratching, scraping and pulling his hair out he will be on the edge. When you were a kid did you like it when your mom washed your own head? Enough said. Keep the water out of his eyes if you can and their nose away from the faucet. They will feel like they are drowning. Another relaxer for your dog is to take your time. Give your dog a message. Talk to them while you are doing it. Nothing like have fingers rubbed all over your back and it�s real easy with the soap on your dog.

Grooming does take patience. You can incorporate the kids help as they love to do it when they are little. Consistency is the key. It may take up to six months to get your dog use to the water. It doesn�t have to be a chore when you get the whole family involved. If after trying these suggestions and you dog does not respond well, you may need to go to a professional.

About The Author

Gary Allison is a third generation of professional dog breeders. It all started with his grandparents in 1970 with the Boston Terriers and has expanded to Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, Pugs and Pomeranians. He is also actively involved with dog rescue.

source: articlecity.com

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Pets: Choosing A Groomer
by: Gary Allison

Different pets have vastly different grooming needs. Some pets need a lot more grooming than others. The majority of animals will need some kind of grooming service at some stage of their lives. Whether it's bathing or trimming, or even a large matt that needs to be removed - there are some things that need to be done by professionals.

Choosing a groomer is not just a matter of opening the phonebook however, there are just too many choices. But when choosing groomers some standards cannot be negotiated. You want the best for your pet and need to be sure you can safely place your trust in your chosen groomer.

Before sending your beloved pet to a grooming service - here are some useful tips to consider when it comes to choosing the right service for you.

1. References: This is the most important of the criteria! A simple way to make sure you choosing right is just to ask your friends/family where they take their animals. Word of mouth works well. Look online to see if there's any evidence of good work or happy clients.

2. Their level of experience: Do they have some kind of qualification? Are they affiliated with any grooming associations? If your pet has exotic or unusual needs ask them if they've dealt with - for example a French treatment. Ask if they have any photo albums of their work or happy clients they could refer you to.

3. Staying there: Many places allow you to stay with your pet while they do their work. A trustworthy establishment should have no problems with letting you stay - and even if you don't intend to stay - their reaction to the question will tell you a lot.

4. Evaluate their place of business: is it clean and well lit. Does it give a good impression? Are the animals there happy and calm? Does the establishment have a happy feel to it?

5. Of course your own pets' reaction will also have a lot to do with whether you choose a groomer. If your pet becomes upset or reacts badly to them - find another groomer. Groomers should handle your pet gently.

The best places love your animal as much as you do and treat them well. And if you aren't happy with their service - find someone else. You wouldn't leave your children with just anybody - why should your pets be any different. Take your time while choosing - it'll be time well spent.

About The Author

Gary Allison is a third generation of professional dog breeders. It all started with his grandparents in 1970 with the Boston Terriers and has expanded to Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, Pugs, Shih Tzu�s and Pomeranians. He is also actively involved with dog rescue.

source: articlecity.com