Boise Dog Grooming | Canine Design

Grooming tips

Imagine how you would look and feel if you never bathed, brushed your hair, or trimmed your nails. To be healthy and happy, your companion animal needs basic grooming, too.
You can handle the brushing and other simple grooming procedures yourself. This type of regular grooming helps build a close bond between you and your pet, and keeps you informed of the condition of his fur, skin, teeth, nails, and ears. In fact, it is not uncommon to discover lumps, infections, and other problems during a thorough grooming routine.

Should you take your pet to a professional groomer? The answer depends on the type of pet you have and your comfort level. For most pets and owners the experience of professional grooming is a positive. All dog breeds can benefit from a professional grooming, and Bath Brush, including short hair dogs ( labs, dalmations), and dogs that don't get hair cuts all over their body's (shelties, golden retrievers). Most clients comments are positive, and reflect decreased vacuuming time from decreased shedding.

What is grooming?

Grooming is more than just a hair cut. It may include bathing, combing, brushing, clipping nails, cutting or shaving mats, cleaning ears, and controlling external parasites.

Why choose a groomer?

You may not have the time, tools, experience, or physical ability to adequately groom your pet. For example, some animals (like poodles) have their fur groomed into particular styles that require a professional. Or a pet may require regular or seasonal clipping, medicated or flea baths, removal of skunk odors or harmful substances, or removal of matted fur. Typically, a trained professional can more safely and humanely handle tricky procedures and temperamental or frightened animals. (Removing severe mats should always be done by an experienced groomer to avoid accidental cuts.) Keep in mind, however, that professional groomers aren't miracle workers; it's up to you to stay on top of your pet's grooming needs.

How can I ease my pet's fears?

It's important for your pet to tolerate being groomed, regardless of how often you take him to a professional. To train your pet, groom him briefly when you're both relaxed. For example, begin by gently massaging his coat each morning as you feed him. Gradually introduce a brush or comb. Each day, increase the grooming time and work on different areas. Reward your pet for cooperating. The more comfortable your pet feels with home grooming and around strangers, the better he'll tolerate professional grooming.

Ideally, most dogs get started with grooming when very young, preferably before 12 weeks of age. 10-12 weeks of age is the best time to expose a vaccinated puppy to a grooming salon and all the things they will have done as an adult. The Puppy VIP Package is a great start.

What should I do before the first visit?

For the health and safety of both your pet and the groomer, make sure your pet is up-to-date on veterinary treatment and necessary vaccines. A pet who is particularly nervous or difficult to handle makes the grooming process stressful for both your pet and the groomer. If this sounds like your pet, work with an animal behavior specialist or dog trainer.

When making the appointment, inform the groomer about your pet's needs. To provide special handling, the groomer must know in advance whether your pet is geriatric or has a chronic health condition. Also warn the groomer about any habits that could interfere with safe and successful grooming. Keep in mind, too, that groomers are not licensed to dispense tranquilizers; if your pet needs sedation to be groomed, find a veterinarian who employs a groomer. Finally, when you drop your pet off at the groomer, bid your pet good-bye quickly: Emotional departures will increase your pet's stress level. When you pick up your pet, both of you will enjoy that clean, mat-free coat that makes pets—and their people—more comfortable.

Canine Design does use aroma therapy with essential oils like lavender for promoting a more calm grooming atmosphere.

Any and all appointment changes that are not done with 24 hours notice will be subject to a $35 fee.
Call us today at 208-336-3413 or fill out our online contact form.