The rise of pet ownership in the UK unsurprisingly resulted in high demand for pet services, such as grooming, walking, and boarding. Gone are those days where dogs are reared as a watchdog, hunter, or barn dog. Nowadays, pet owners pamper their dogs as a valuable member of the family.
Statistics show 25 per cent rise in dog grooming market since 2010. What’s in dog grooming that makes it worth it? Should you do it yourself?
1. They have the right tools and resources.
Go to a facility that is specially made and equipped to accommodate pet grooming needs. Professional groomers have all the right tools, such as different kinds of clippers and a grooming table that can be adjusted according to the size of your dog. Moreover, they have the right products for dogs that have skin allergies, sensitive skin, irritation, and fleas.
Further, professional pet grooming takes precise and adequate attention to details in furnishing cuts and hairstyles. Even drying your canine takes extra caution. If not, it may expose your pooch to the risk of ear infection, cracked skin, or fungus that may grow in between the paws or armpit.
2. They are trained to handle all types of dogs.
There are dogs that dread taking a bath and would even get nervous upon sensing that it is almost bath time. Some would even get aggressive when one attempts to groom him. Professional groomers underwent training that taught them how to provide comfort to your pooch. There are also cases when a dog gets aggressive because of underlying infections, injuries, or any painful lumps. Groomers may help you detect such problems. However, for the worst cases, which mostly involve aggressive or older dogs, they may need to be sedated for proper and safe handling.
3. They handle the less appealing parts.
Dogs do get dirty in a lot of ways, like getting muddied, which make them attractive to fleas and ticks. Dog groomers know how to handle and clean every part of your canine, including his rear end where the anal glands are. Anal gland care is important in maintaining your dog’s health.
4. Schedules are set at your convenience.
Acquiring professional grooming includes essential services depending on your package. Mobile dog grooming is one of the pet grooming services that is now being offered. It is the best option if you have the busiest schedule and could, therefore, not take your pooch to the groomers. In mobile grooming, the groomers will bring treatments, special treats, and other necessities in their grooming vans right at your doorstep.
What is included in dog grooming?
Pet shops have upgraded their offers and not just merely a trim, blow-dry, and nail clipping. Nowadays, dog pampering goes over the top with fashion and fads in mind.
On the other hand, basic offers include:
- Full-service bath
- Professional haircut with style
- Bath with haircut
- Nail trimming
- Teeth brushing
- Ear cleaning
- Mouth freshener
- Pet care check
- Pet massage
- Spa package
- Check for fleas and ticks
- De-shedding treatment
Dog grooming prices may vary on the breed, location, and, service package.
Choosing a reliable groomer
There are a number of dog grooming shops set all over the country. Find one that is most convenient for you. Choose the best groomer by asking recommendations from friends, breed clubs, breeders, or your veterinarian. You may also search and read online for pet shop reviews.
Benefits of dog grooming
Having a regular dog grooming benefits your dog’s overall appearance as well as his health.
- The entire grooming process is at safe hands of professionals without the risk of improper handling and injuries.
- They can detect early health warning signs. Dog grooming includes a thorough inspection of your canine’s being, including inspecting the paws for unsuspected cuts or punctures and any skin condition.
- It promotes healthy skin and coat, safely removing matted-down fur and any hidden dirt in between the toes.
- It takes the burden of nail-trimming your dog. The groomer knows how to handle uncooperative dogs and would surely cut the nails to its appropriate size.
- Professional groomers will know and can suggest the perfect style for your dog, which will vary on different breeds.
- As the groomer handles your canine’s coat, he will be able to detect any forms of parasites such as fleas and mites.
- Regular grooming means less shedding and reducing the unwanted shedding in your home. The cleaning process will include removing loose hair and dander.
- Keeping regular grooming avoids unwanted concerns, such as long and matted hair, double coating, grass seeds, fleas, and dental disease.
- Finally, you may ask for helpful tips. They may be able to observe the wellness of your dog. If the skin is too dry or too oily, the groomer might recommend some dietary supplementary. For unhealthy skin, he may be able to identify skin problems that need immediate attention.
Did you find these tips helpful? Still have unanswered questions? Read more of our grooming articles and other blog posts.