We often get questions about grooming, which we love because it means you care about your pet!
We’ve compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions, and Pet Evolution Grooming Salon Manager & expert Jamie has answered for you:
How often should I groom my dog?
This very much depends on your breed of dog. It can be every 4 weeks or every 3 months! But its best to consider how much brushing and bathing you are willing to do at home in between appointments, as well as the season. Generally, we suggest every 4 to 8 weeks at least.
Why is matting such a concern? Are some dogs more susceptible to it than others?
Matting is when an animal’s fur becomes densely tangled in areas and forms clumps in their coats. Matted fur causes dogs discomfort and pain as it cuts off circulation to blood vessels and damages skin tissues. Matted clumps have to be cut very short or shaved off in order to be removed completely. While it’s more common in curly haired breeds, regular appointments every few weeks, even for a bath and brush, can prevent this painful experience.
When should a puppy come in for its first grooming appointment?
A puppy should first visit the groomer at 8 weeks old, and every 2 weeks after until adjusted to grooming. Generally, this is around 6 months of age when the dog can sit still and respond to a groomer’s commands.
What can I do if my dog is stressed about the groomers?
The way to solve this issue is to bring your animal in more often. Find a groomer you trust and communicate the animal’s issues with that groomer. With repeated exposure to the same groomer and grooming salon, the dog will build an understanding of what is happening and that will reduce anxiety. Additionally, practice at home! Brush your dog and touch its paws. It can also help to hold a motorized toothbrush near the dog so they get used to the buzzing sound, and practice putting the handle of a spoon by your pet’s face. This mimics the movement of combing and clipping beards, and your pet will learn to not shy away from the tools.
What kinds of tables and tools do you use?
Pet Evolution uses professional grooming tables and leashes, along with professional-grade tools. We sanitize the tools in between our clients, and that’s very important!
What are “add on” services and how often should we use them?
Additional services that you can add on to your regular grooming appointment include teeth brushing, which is great to do each time, and should be done daily at home! We also do nail trims and nail grinding. Nails should be trimmed monthly, and the grinding is helpful at each trim to remove sharp edges.
Rumor has it you groom cats, too?
It’s so fun! Cat grooming is something that only experienced groomers should do. It can be a lot more dangerous for cat and groomer because cats don’t handle stress as well as dogs do. It’s preferable to schedule cat appointments in the morning hours when there aren’t as many dogs around and the salon is quieter. Cats should be groomed yearly, and can be maintained as needed with a cat bath, brush, ear cleaning, nail trim and sanitary shave (booty shave).
Didn’t see your question? Feel free to call us or ask any additional questions when you come in the store! We want you to know that your pet is in good hands!