I am thinking of a certain Shih Tzu with a ME vs THEM mentality when her every-six-weeks visit to the groomer comes around. Her attitude states firmly “Take your tub, shampoo, brushes and scissors, and especially, your blow dryer, and use them on that wimpy little Schnauzer. But in your wildest dreams don’t touch me with them.”
The owner of this particular Shih Tzu has made the rounds of the Capital District grooming community, hoping to find a salon willing to take off the muzzle and trim the dog’s scraggly face without encountering teeth.
I can sympathize with the dog.
And the owner.
And the groomer.
The dog, because the salon smells like wet frightened dogs, there is the incessant noise of the blowers, the cash register and phones are ringing, and hey! don’t touch my butt! or there either!
The owner, because its humiliating to have what she believes is surely the ONLY dog that acts like a brat at the groomer.
And the groomer, who is a small business owner as well as a skilled artisan, and who loves dogs and does her best to keep them clean and attractive. She shouldn’t have to chance a bloody altercation to get her work done.
But there it is.
So here are some thoughts on getting your Shih Tzu, or Bichon, or Maltese, or Husky, or Labradoodle, or any other canine needing a bath and a haircut on occasion, ready to bring to your friendly neighborhood groomer, who will certainly be glad you did:
Before the actual appointment, take your dog to the groomer for a brief visit. Let him meet the staff, have them give him a treat and a sniff around, on leash of course.
At home, during quiet times, help your dog get comfortable with being handled. Brush him on different areas of his body while he is relaxed, like when you are both watching TV. Touch around his eyes, ears, mouth, belly, feet and toes (nails, too).
Just as you don’t want your dog to associate the only car ride he gets with going to the vet or the groomer, take him on some practice drives to fun places, like the dog park or a play date.
Like everything in a dog’s life, a good run or a game of fetch beforehand makes any stressful experience easier to tolerate.
If you are anxious about the grooming visit, your dog will be, too. Try to stay relaxed, calm, and unconcerned.
Keep your dog on leash and in control since other dogs may be coming and going at the same time you are.
If you have a small dog, take him into the salon in his carrier. He’ll feel more comfortable being in his familiar space, with his blanket and toys.
After the appointment, bring your dog somewhere fun to play to reward him, and you, for surviving the ordeal. Who knows, one day he may even look forward to his next visit to the salon.
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