As a pet owner, you want your furry friend to be healthy, happy, and well-groomed. Regular grooming not only keeps your dog looking and smelling great, but it also promotes good health and prevents potential health issues. But grooming your dog can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to pet parenting. That’s where Splash & Dash comes in – we are here to provide you with the best dog grooming tips to help you keep your pup healthy and happy.
Table of Contents
The Importance of Grooming Your Dog
Proper grooming is essential for the health and well-being of your furry friend. Here are some of the benefits of regular grooming:
Promotes healthy skin and coat
Reduces shedding and prevents mats and tangles
Helps prevent infections and skin irritations
Allows you to check for lumps, bumps, and other abnormalities
Enhances the bond between you and your pet
Ready to give your pup the ultimate grooming experience?
Book an appointment with Splash & Dash today and let our professional groomers pamper your furry friend! From baths and haircuts to nail trims and ear cleaning, we offer a wide range of grooming services to keep your dog looking and feeling their best.
Regular brushing is essential for maintaining your dog’s coat and preventing matting and tangling. Here are some tips for brushing your dog’s coat:
Use a brush that is appropriate for your dog’s coat type.
Brush your dog’s coat in the direction of hair growth.
Start at the head and work your way down.
Be gentle around sensitive areas like the ears, tail, and belly.
Reward your dog with treats and praise to make brushing a positive experience.
Bathing Your Dog
Bathing your dog is an important part of grooming, but it should not be done too often as it can strip the natural oils from your dog’s skin. Here are some tips for bathing your dog:
Use a shampoo that is specifically designed for dogs.
Wet your dog thoroughly before applying shampoo.
Massage shampoo into your dog’s coat and rinse thoroughly.
Use a towel to dry your dog, or a blow dryer on a low heat setting.
Reward your dog with treats and praise to make bathing a positive experience.
Trimming Your Dog's Nails
Long nails can be uncomfortable for your dog and can even lead to health problems. Here are some tips for trimming your dog’s nails:
Use a nail clipper that is appropriate for your dog’s size.
Cut the nail just below the quick, which is the pink part of the nail that contains blood vessels and nerves.
If you accidentally cut the quick, use a styptic powder or cornstarch to stop the bleeding.
Reward your dog with treats and praise to make nail trimming a positive experience.
Cleaning Your Dog's Teeth
Good dental hygiene is important for your dog’s overall health. Here are some tips for cleaning your dog’s teeth:
Use a toothbrush and toothpaste that is specifically designed for dogs.
Start slowly and gradually increase the time and frequency of brushing.
Be gentle and use circular motions to clean your dog’s teeth and gums.
Reward your dog with treats and praise to make teeth cleaning a positive experience.
The frequency of grooming depends on your dog’s breed, coat type, and lifestyle. Dogs with longer hair and thicker coats may require more frequent grooming than short-haired breeds.
Yes, you can groom your dog at home, but it’s important to have the right tools and follow proper grooming techniques to avoid injuring your dog. If you’re not sure how to groom your dog properly, you can always take them to a professional groomer.
Some signs of skin conditions in dogs include itching, redness, bumps, and scabs. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to take your dog to the vet for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Reward-based training is a great way to make grooming a positive experience for your dog. Give your dog treats and praise for good behavior, and take breaks if they seem uncomfortable or stressed.
Conclusion:
Grooming your dog is an important part of responsible pet ownership. By following these best dog grooming tips from Splash & Dash, you can keep your furry friend healthy, happy, and looking their best. Remember to always be gentle and patient, and to reward your dog with treats and praise for good behavior. Happy grooming!
Baton Rouge, Louisiana is a welcoming community that embraces the life of being a Dog parent. This is why a Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique location is perfect for the area. There are so many dog friendly amenities you will find here. There are many parks you can take your dog, as well as stores and restaurants. There are several options for Dog Grooming in Baton Rouge as well as any other service you can think of. Take a look through this list to find the stores and doggy services that will best fit your needs. If you find that we have missed something in our list, let us know.
Dogs at Play
Play is essential for dogs. It allows them to learn how to interact with people and other animals. It also help them to get the exercise they need to be healthy. In addition to this it can help them to expend their excess energy so they are less likely to take it out on your home. There are many ways that you can allow your dog to play in the area. You can take them to dog parks in Baton Rouge, or even parks that allow your dog on a leash. This can be done with meetups or you can simply go by yourself and enjoy some time with your dog.
Dog Parks in Baton Rouge
Getting exercise is essential as a dog. If you want some place fun where your dog can run free and off leash, then one of the several dog parks in Baton Rouge may be the best option. Even if you have a large yard that your dog can run free in, this still does not replace the fun of going to the dog park. You will find that this allows your dog to make new friends and have some time to play with you.
This park is located in the southwestern part of East Baton Rouge Parish by LSU. The Raising Cane’s Dog Park at City Brooks Community Park was opened to the public on May 31, 2008. The dog park is open seven days a week, from sunrise to sunset, at no charge.
Your pup is sure to love this off-leash dog park at Burbank Park in Baton Rouge. This dog park is highly recommended for smaller-dogs. The large gated area for large pups is complete with mud and a walking trail with benches for humans, a separate agility area, and a gated lake area.
The Forest community park is more than just a dog park. This park includes tennis courts, softball fields, picnic tables, splash pads and fishing areas. This is a lovely park in the Baton Rouge area and your dog is sure to enjoy it.
Parks That Allow Dogs in Baton Rouge
Although your dog can’t run off leash at these dog parks in Baton Rouge, you will find that they still enjoy getting some fresh air as well as taking in new sights and smells. You can go to one near your home that you can walk to or get in your car and drive there. Keep in mind that these parks do not have accommodations for pets so you will need to bring your own supplies.
This park is located in the center of East Baton Rouge Parish. Independence Park serves a larger geographic area than a neighborhood park and is designed to engage the entire family for a whole day. The perimeter of the park is lined with hundreds of American flags. Your pup and family will enjoy a day at Independence Community Park in Baton Rouge.
This park is located in the southeastern part of East Baton Rouge Parish. Highland Road Community Park is the perfect place to spend the day with your pup and family. It is a very popular park because of all the features it has to offer and for the scenic landscape.
Dogs Around Town
Gone are the days when you are forced to leave your pooch at home. Whether you want to go to dog restaurants, or simply to a store that allows pets, you will find many options in the Baton Rouge area. This can be the perfect activity when you need to take your pet for dog grooming in Baton Rouge or simply because you want to spend time with them.
Dog Friendly Restaurants + Bars in Baton Rouge
Going out to eat or grab a couple drinks can be even more fun when you have your furry best friend with you. There are several dog restaurants in Baton Rouge you should know about. You can find just about any type of food you are looking for with these dog friendly places.
La Divina Italian Cafe has Gelato (as well as gelato for dogs), sorbeto, espresso, full breakfast, lunch and dinner menu. Patio dining tables allow dogs so there is no excuse not to bring your pup with you for lunch!
Grimaldi’s 6401 Bluebonnet Blvd, Mall of Louisiana Baton Rouge, LA 70836
Grimaldi’s of Baton Rouge, LA, serves New York style pizza and features a dog-friendly outdoor patio. This is a welcoming place to take your dog and family for some good pizza and a great time.
Chimes East prepares authentic Louisiana style cuisine, including chargrilled oysters, crawfish etouffee, red beans and rice with sausage, shrimp po’boys, and blackened salmon sandwiches. Covered outdoor seating area is dog friendly.
Located in the heart of Baton Rouge, The Bulldog offers one of the best dog-friendly patios in town, complete with a large-screen TVs and the famous beer-tap fountain. Choose from any of 81 fine draft beers or 100+ bottled beers, along with a full selection of cocktails and award-winning pub fare such as roasted garlic hummus, quesadillas, Tex-Mex egg rolls, shrimp po’boys, pulled pork sandwiches, Buffalo chicken sandwiches, and 100% Angus beef burgers. Your dog is sure to love The Bulldog in Baton Rouge.
The Londoner 4215 S Sherwood Forest Blvd Baton Rouge, LA, US, 70816
The Londoner maintains the authentic feel of a true British Pub experience, serving traditional dishes like shepherd’s pie and bangers & mash. Dogs are welcome on the patio.
Dog Friendly Hotels in Baton Rouge
Need a couple of days to unwind in a hotel? Or perhaps you’re visiting the area and want to know the hotels that accept your pet. Either way there is good news, there are many hotels in the Baton Rouge area that offer this service. Each one of them has a slightly different policy so make sure you pay attention to this before booking your stay.
Set 6 miles from Louisiana State University, this casual hotel is also 7 miles from the Old Louisiana State Capitol.
The traditional rooms offer free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs with premium channels, as well as mini-fridges, microwaves and coffee-makers. Suites add separate living areas with pull-out sofas.
The hotel provides complimentary hot breakfast, afternoon snacks and parking. Other amenities include an indoor/outdoor pool with a whirlpool, plus a 24/7 exercise room and business center.
This modern hotel off I-10 is 2.8 miles from Louisiana State University, 3 miles from Tiger Stadium and 10 miles from the Blue Bayou Waterpark.
Featuring Mediterranean, Asian, modern and retro motifs, the rooms come with free Wi-Fi, 37-inch flat-screen TVs and work desks. Upgraded rooms have full kitchens or whirlpool tubs, while suites add separate living rooms with wet bars, mini-fridges and microwaves. No dogs allowed in the whirlpool, a dog can dream though.
There’s an American bistro and a pub, as well as an outdoor pool, a sauna and a gym. Other amenities include a business center and meeting space. Parking is free and pets are welcome for a fee.
Off I-10 in south Baton Rouge, this sophisticated hotel is 4 miles from Louisiana State University and 5 miles from Baton Rouge River Center arena.
Classic rooms have free Wi-Fi, iPod docks and flat-screen TVs, plus mini-fridges, microwaves and coffee-makers. Club level rooms offer access to a lounge with complimentary breakfast and afternoon appetizers. Suites add wet bars and either sitting areas or separate living rooms.
A casual restaurant/bar with a patio serves classic Louisiana fare. In addition to complimentary parking, there’s an outdoor pool, a sundeck and a 24/7 gym, plus 32,000 sq ft of event space and a business center.
Animal Services
There are many services you may need for your pet throughout their lifetime. This is why it’s helpful to know the options that are available to you. Whether you are looking for vets in Baton Rouge or simply someone to help you walk your dog in the afternoon, we have a list of the companies you can call. Studies have found that owning a dog can actually improve your health.
Pet Stores in Baton Rouge
Taking your dog to the pet store can be fun for both of you. There are toys, clothes and so much more you can explore together. There are several options for pet stores in Baton Rouge. Dogs need a bath and grooming too! Take them to a dog groomer in Baton Rouge today. We can’t forget to mention the awesome dog franchise that is in Baton Rouge.
Neighborhood Pet Market 12871 Perkins Rd Baton Rouge, LA 70810
A local pet store in the Baton Rouge area, they provide many food options and accessories for your dog. Neighborhood Pet Market in Baton Rouge is a good place to buy dog toys or accessories.
At Splash and Dash, they believe that dogs should be treated as family members and equals. They deserve to get the same enjoyment out of life, to be able to feel comfortable and clean, and to eat delicious foods that provide them with the nutritious energy they need. In other words, “Play Dirty – Live Clean.”
That’s why Splash and Dash has introduced relaxing spa treatments for dogs, and developed treats made with 7 human-grade ingredients or less. Plus, with their affordable monthly memberships, it’s never been easier to keep ‘em clean year round.
Petco Animal Supply 3535 Perkins Rd Baton Rouge, LA 70808
Chain with pet food & supplies, such as toys, beds & apparel (many offer pet services & adoptions).
Vets & Animal Hospitals in Baton Rouge
Vets in Baton Rouge are some of the best around, and not to forget to mention a service that every dog needs. You want to find a vet that works well with your pet and specializes in the issues your pet may have. Be sure to take your pet in at least twice a year for wellness checkups. You can make a whole day of it and even take them in for dog grooming in Baton Rouge at the same time.
The mission of the Associated Veterinary Clinic has been the same since its beginning in March of 1981. “To provide affordable quality Veterinary services for the people of Baton Rouge.”
Capital Heights Veterinary Clinic is a small animal veterinary practice in the heart of the Baton Rouge area. They strive to deliver quality care to pets with a focus on personal service and convenience in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
Perkins Road Veterinary Hospital is proud to serve Baton Rouge, LA and surrounding areas. They are dedicated to providing the highest level of veterinary medicine along with friendly, compassionate service.
Adoption & Shelters in Baton Rouge
If you want to help a dog in need, then dog adoption in Baton Rouge might be the right option for you. There are also breeders in the area though if you go this route make sure they follow responsible breeding practices.
The mission of Friends of the Animals Dog Adoption House is to rescue, rehome, or otherwise save as many dogs and puppies as possible from the Baton Rouge Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA).
Since starting in 2010, FOTA has found forever homes for more than 2000 animals from the EBR Parish shelter and PASS program.
Since 2011 CAA has been focused on improving the lives of shelter animals, finding good homes for as many of them as possible, and upgrading shelter operations. This is a great place in the Baton Rouge area for adopting pets.
The Capital Area Animal Welfare Society (CAAWS) is a non-profit organization committed to the well-being of animals in the Baton Rouge community. Caaws helps with the facilitating and adoption of homeless animals, teaching the community responsible companion animal ownership. They also promote the humane treatment of animals, and the practice of spaying/neutering your animal.
Dog Grooming in Baton Rouge
Although it depends mostly on the breed, hair length, and type of coat, regular dog grooming should be done about once a month. For young puppies and dogs who have never been groomed, more frequent dog grooming or brushing at home should be done to get the dog used to being handled and to avoid grooming issues into adulthood.
The Royale Treatment LLC 7657 1 Perkins Pl Dr Ste A Baton Rouge, LA 70810
Royale Treatment is a canine salon and spa in the Baton Rouge area. They have a unique mix of dog grooming and handling experience. All dogs are required to have current vaccinations. This includes 6-month Bordetella, DHLPP and Rabies. Bordetella is not effective unless given 72 hours prior to appointment.
Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique is the premier dog grooming service in the Baton Rouge area. Splash and Dash breaks away from the typical “big box” pet stores (like Petco/Pet supplies). Splash and Dash is family owned and run and offer professional grooming services and natural dog treats and products.
All Splash and Dash products, dog food, and dog treats are 100% sourced in the USA and USDA approved. All of their dog treats are 7 Human-Grade ingredients or less. Play dirty, Live clean, Eco-Friendly dog supplies are in abundance around Splash and Dash.
Splash and Dash Memberships start at $39.95 a month! This unique monthly membership offered by Splash and Dash allows your pup to get unlimited baths and brushes all month long.
Petz Plaza 4763 Perkins Rd Baton Rouge, LA 70808
Petz Plaza opened their doors to the Baton Rouge pet community in 2002 and have continued providing a high level of customer service to local pet owners ever since.
Intestinal parasites often referred to as “Worms” can cause severe and life threatening diseases. Much to the surprise of many pet owners, several canine parasites are transmissible to humans as well. This is why understanding these parasitic health symptoms, hazards, and treatments are important to set preventative measures for the whole household.
It is important to realize there are many more parasites other than just roundworms and tapeworms that commonly come to mind. Whipworms, Hookworms, and many other worms can cause serious life threatening complications.
How do dogs get worms?
Most tapeworms require an intermediate host, which means most of the time they aren’t passed from pet to pet. Common intermediate hosts include fleas and small rodents. It’s important to note that dogs will become reinvested with tapeworms if these hosts aren’t controlled.
Dogs can become infected with roundworms by eating worm eggs from contaminated soil or stool. Although more common in cats, dogs can also become infected by eating infected rodents.
Although human infection occurs rarely, it can cause significant health issues depending on where the worms migrate to. If you have been exposed to a pet with worms, we recommend talking with your physician to discuss any potential problems.
Types of worms
Roundworms
Usually spread in feces or during pregnancy or nursing, the roundworm causes a serious infection in dogs and puppies. The roundworm eats the food of its host and may cause diarrhea and other symptoms. It’s important to note that roundworms in puppies can be fatal. Human infection of roundworms can cause even more serious symptoms and implications.
Hookworms
Hookworms suck the blood out of their hosts, mostly in the small intestine. Mothers can infect their puppies, and adult dogs can be infected through their skin or when cleaning themselves. Infection causes many symptoms, mostly weakness and malnutrition which can lead to death in puppies. Humans can also become infected with hookworms from unwashed vegetables or by walking barefoot on sand and soil.
Heartworms
One of the most dangerous worms, heartworms are spread through mosquito bites. They can be up to 14 inches long, and commonly live in the heart and arteries. Heartworms can affect how the heart functions and can cause blood clots which are likely to cause death if untreated. Monthly heartworm preventatives are are effective andSplash and Dash recommends to use a monthly heartworm treatment.
Whipworms
Whipworms live in the area where the small and large intestines meet. Similarly to hookworms, whipworms also suck the blood of their hosts. Dogs commonly pick them up from contaminated soil or by grooming. Whipworms can be quite serious and symptoms include bloody diarrhea especially when there are a large number in the intestine.
Tapeworms
Dogs most commonly are infected with tapeworms from fleas, which carry them. Tapeworms absorb dog’s nutrients from the intestine where they often attach. Tapeworms are each about the size of a grain of rice. These are commonly passed in stool and can be seen around the dog’s anus. Humans can also get tapeworms, but can’t get them from an infected pet.
Ringworm
Despite its name, ringworm is actually not a worm at all. It is a skin infection caused by a fungus. In dogs, ringworm is often seen as a dry, gray, and scary patch. Although it may cause no symptoms at all, it is still important to take your dog to the vet if you notice anything abnormal. Humans can become infected in ringworm as well, however they usually cause a red lesion with a ring-like appearance (hence the name). Infection comes from spores which are commonly found in the soil or on cats, humans can become infected by touching an infected pet. Treatment for ringworm can involve medicated shampoos and ointments. More commonly, an oral medication will be needed for a couple of months. It is important to take extra measures to clear ringworm from the environment to prevent the spread.
How can I tell if my dog has worms?
Although there is no obvious outward signs of infection when it comes to your dog having worms, normal bowel movements don’t rule out the possibility of a parasite infection. However, when signs are present they can include diarrhea, bloody stool, mucus in the stool, change in appetite, weight loss, and vague signs of abdominal or rectal discomfort.
Other signs are abdominal enlargement, scooting of the hindquarters, and excess licking or irritation around the anus. Some parasites even can cause severe blood loss and even death, especially in young, weak, or old and malnourished pets.
Can I see worms in my dog’s stool?
One way to see if your dog has worms is examining their stool. Adult roundworms and hookworms will appear as small to large, off-white to tan, spaghetti shaped parasites. Human infection can be examined in stool as well.
Tapeworms will often appear in stool or clinging to hair around the genital area. Fresh segments will be white, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch long, and may expand or contract. Dry segments resemble sesame seeds or rice grains and will be darker in color.
Treatment for Worms
Tapeworms and other variations of worms are not effectively treatable with over-the-counter dewormers, which means a veterinary examination is necessary. All of us atSplash and Dashwant the very best for your pet, please don’t take any symptoms lightly.
Most pet parents know the responsibilities of owning a dog. Caring for your little four-legged child holds the same weight as caring for your two-legged child. Some dogs are high maintenance. They might need special diets, particular grooming, and specialized care. Other dogs are less demanding. Just as some dog breeds need tons of exercise, some dogs will need constant grooming. Breeds with heavy coats like Chow Chow, Golden Retrievers, and Maltese will need regular dog grooming services to keep up with their health.
When a dog’s coat is kept too long, and is not regularly brushed, matting occurs. This is extremely painful for dogs. Imagine a twisted knot in your hair constantly pulling at your scalp. Ouch! A rule-of-thumb is that if you have not brought your dog in for professional grooming after 6-12 months, your dog may need to be shaved down. Splash and Dash, and any reputable groomer, will choose humanity over vanity. This means that the most humane option for dogs with severe matting is shaving over subjecting them to the painful de-matting process. Groomers will extend the option between giving your dog a professional shaving or letting you take your dog home to attempt a de-matt yourself.
This is only in worst case scenarios. Most dogs with common matting issues can be treated with de-matting dog grooming services. A standard de-mating service will not force a dog to suffer any unnecessary discomfort. Regular grooming also keeps a dog’s coat pristine by circulating natural skin oils and removing dander from the coat. Regular brushing and bathing are essential. Trimming your dog’s nails and keeping their teeth brushed is also very important to their health.
What Does Splash and Dash Offer?
Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique offers amazing dog grooming services that not only safeguard your pet’s health but is great for their happiness too! This article tours all the awesome care options you can spoil your dog with at Splash and Dash.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is getting more and more popular with pets. This treatment is great! With proper techniques not only will your dog smell great but each scent can help induce a certain emotional state.
The benefits of aromatherapy begin with dogs experiencing the world through their nose!
With aromatherapy, anxious dogs can learn—with some conditioning—to respond well to relaxing aromatherapy blends infused with Lavender and Chamomile in our Relax treatment. We have an answer for any case. If your dog’s coat needs a moisturizing boost, a fusion of Coconut, Cucumber, and Green Tea can replenish their coat and skin with the Hydrate treatment. With Renew—Argan oil, Vitamin E, and Antioxidants quench a dog’s coat and invigorates their skin. Lazy couch surfing pups can get a zeal of Energy with Ginger and Orange essential oils to pep them up.
Pawdicures
Imagine walking around on your hands all day. Walking through gas stations, chemically treated grass, and concrete—havens for bacteria. Common chemicals in fertilizers like molybdenum or sodium chloride in ice melting products can be harmful to your dog. This makes dirt and mud almost the least of your worries when it comes to your dog’s paws.
A pawdicure includes a healing effervescent treatment that cleanses away bacteria and chemicals. Pawdicures also attend to cracked pads and inflamed nail beds. Just as soothing as a pedicure is for humans, a pawdicure will melt away tension in your pupper.
Facials
Dogs love this! A facial purges out those puppy pores and removes debris from tear ducts. Splash and Dash have human-grade Blueberry and Pinkberry facial scrubs that revitalize a dog’s skin. If your dog has tear stains or built up ‘crust’ in their facial fur, this treatment is a great option for them!
DeShed Service
All dogs shed. There are two ways to keep hair from getting all over your couch. The first is daily brushing. Take your dog outside and brush out all the dead hair that is trapped in their coat. Next, treat them with a DeShed service.
The way it works is using a specially-formulated DeShedding shampoo that is packed with moisturizers and essential omega fatty acids. This shampoo replenishes dry, brittle hairs. The shampoo is massaged into your dog’s coat for at least ten minutes, then rinsed out repeatedly. After this, thorough brushing with professional grooming equipment is used to remove excess hairs.
The process of shedding is constant throughout the whole year but some dogs shed more seasonally. If your Malamute sheds after the winter months, the best time to bring him in for a DeShed is in the spring. DeShedding helps contain the endless amount of loose hair that gets everywhere!
Nourish Conditioning
This is the dog service treatment that keeps on treating. Nourish Conditioner is an ultra-nourishing leave-in or rinse-out conditioner which is hypoallergenic and adds a protective layer between groomings.
Nourish helps a dog’s coat retain vitamins and protects their skin as their being dried. The detangler-properties helps eliminate static and support coat shine. The conditioner allows your dog to get the most out of their vitamin-enriched bath!
Teeth Brushing
Brushing your dog’s teeth is one of the most important and pain-in-the-butt parts of grooming. Veterinarians recommend brushing your dog’s teeth at least twice a week to prevent bad breath, periodontal disease, and even kidney disease. Why not let your groomer do this for you? Let them take care of the tedium so you can get back to playing and cuddling with your pooch, who now has minty fresh breath!
Ear Cleaning
An ear infection is no fun. Monitoring ears for redness, inflammation, and an odorous discharge is vital for a dog’s health. During a bath, dogs need to have debris removed to prevent ear infections.
An ear cleaning takes this one step further. Using non-abrasive cleaning solutions and professional grooming supplies, a groomer will cleanse a dog’s ear canal. This is super important for long-term health and hygiene.
Nail Trimming
This is another exhausting part of dog grooming that is just as important as it is tedious—nail trimming. If you can hear the clicks and clacks of your dog’s nails making contact with the floor, your dog’s nails are too long! Gangly nails are painful for a dog. It forces them to torque their spine in unhealthy posture and decreases the chance of nail bed infection.
The professional and loving hands of a groomer can keep nails at a healthy length and will prevent toenail bleeding.
Sanitary Areas and Anal Glands
Tending to these areas of a dog might not be tedious but it is kinda gross. Cleaning up a dog’s genital areas helps them maintain cleanliness as they do their business.
Dogs naturally “express” their anal glands as they defecate but most toy breeds need extra help with this process. If you ever see your dog dragging their butt across the floor, this means their anal glands need to be expressed and this is their way of trying to alleviate the pressure. You can do this at home but we don’t blame you for letting your groomer take care of it for you.
Full-Service Grooming
Splash and Dash offers safety-first grooming for dogs of all sizes and breeds. Whether you have a tiny Yorkie or a giant Bernese, our groomers can tidy up your dog’s coat into a stylish new look. From showroom styling, that the American Kennel Club recognizes, to a casual cut for the summer, our groomers can do it all. We also use eco-friendly shampoos made with all-natural human grade ingredients.
One of the best parts about Splash and Dash is the Signature Monthly Membership. You can pay a flat fee and take your dog in for unlimited bathing and brushing. Whenever you have guests, or the squirrel chase gets extra muddy, you can bring your dog in for sudsy pampering. Being a Splash and Dash member also entitles you to free add-ons and major discounts on dog grooming services.
Angie’s List members reported paying on average between $53 and $90 for a single cut. As a Splash and Dash member, your dog’s grooming can be much less depending on the size of your dog. Plus, you can get your dog washed and brushed literally whenever you want!
If you’re looking for a pet salon that will treat you and your dog like royalty with trained-professional and loving hands, consider Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique. Play Dirty, Live Clean!
Regular Spa Treatments are Vital to a Dog’s Health
Owning a dog is one of life’s most joyful experiences. Coming home to a wagging-tail and happy, expectant eyes is an amazing feeling that dog owners relish. As you know, dogs have amazing abilities to enrich our human lives. Owning a dog has been shown to lower Cortisol, the stress hormone, which is why therapy dogs have such impressive results. Studies have even shown that having a dog around your infant helps strengthen a child’s immune system. Your dog gives you unconditional love and care! Showing this requisite love is pretty simple: provide healthy foods, spa treatments, and lots of affection.
At Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique, we are here to help with all three! The spa treatments we offer are made with your dog’s needs in mind, and the products in our stores are the same products we use at home with our own dogs.
Grooming is a vital part of a dog’s general health. A trained groomer can help keep a dog’s skin pH balanced, provide a wellness check for diseases or parasites, and style your dog’s coat in a way that is healthy and chic. Grooming is preventative care that can stop medical issues before they begin. This helps save money by avoiding costly visits to the vet. It also saves you time, you would otherwise spend cleaning your dog and house from all the shedding! Regular grooming for many dogs is a tedious process and it’s not always easy to get it done with a busy schedule. This makes professional grooming a practical part of owning a dog.
Veterinarians suggest beginning dog grooming around eight to 12-weeks-old and no later than 16-weeks-old. Starting early allows your puppy to associate grooming as a good thing. This will make grooming easier for them and their groomer for life. It’s also important to start early because establishing good grooming habits for your dog is important for their health. Common issues like matting, periodontal disease, and kidney disease can all be easily prevented by regular trips to the groomer.
This article walks dog owners through the importance of spa treatments for a happy and healthy doggo!
Brushing
Brushing is one of the most overlooked parts of spa treatments.
All dogs shed. Hair shedding is a continuous process despite the season. Regular brushing removes any dead hair and dander that is trapped in a dog’s coat and stops painful matting from turning a coat into a knot. Brushing also distributes a dog’s skin oils—preventing hot spots and other skin irritations.
Dogs need to be brushed every day. You can brush your dog at home, or have a professional do it as much as you needed on top of a wash with the Splash and Dash signature service!
Bathing
Having your dog bathed regularly is another important part of a healthy grooming schedule. It’s just as easy with the signature service, which lets you take your dog in for a bath whenever you want!
We use all-natural eco-friendly dog shampoos that remove the debris and chemicals—picked up from lawns and concrete–away from your dog’s coat. Quality shampoos also help lock in needed moisture and vitamins for a vibrant coat shine and healthy skin.
Ears & Eyes
Cleaning a dog’s ears and eyes are important to make sure your pup doesn’t get an infection.
Dogs that are prone to tear staining (epiphora) have a higher risk of yeast infection and the area around their muzzle will need to be cleaned often.
A dog’s ears are also susceptible to infection. To prevent redness, swelling, or a smelly discharge your dog’s ears need to be cleaned at least twice a month. This also inhibits parasites from making their home in your dog’s ears.
Nail Clipping
If you can hear the click-clack of your dog’s nails making contact with your floor, then their nails are too long!
Before domestication, dogs’ nails grind down naturally as they walked over rough terrain. Most dogs today will get their daily walks in, but this not nearly enough for their nails to wear down. When a dog’s nails are too long, they will compensate with bad posture—torquing their spine and locking their legs into what’s known as ‘goat on the rock’ posture. This can lead to joint issues and immobility later on in life.
Keeping your dog’s nails trimmed also helps prevent overgrown nails from cutting into their pads and infection in their nail bed.
Teeth Brushing
Bad breath is only the beginning. Brushing your dog’s teeth and providing dental chews will stop gingivitis and periodontal disease along with that bad fishy smell we get when our dogs lick our faces. Built up plaque hardens into tartar, a magnet for bacteria. This overabundance of bacteria can leak into a dog’s bloodstream. This causes kidney disease and other organ issues that are preventable with good oral care.
Splash and Dash offers dental care and will work with your dog to freshen breath and brighten smiles!
Glands & Sanitary Areas
Have you ever watched your dog do the infamous drag-the-butt-across-the-carpet move? We all have. We all laugh. But the reason they’re doing this is grosser than you would think!
All dogs have anal glands that naturally express themselves as they do their business. Toy breeds sometimes have a harder time expressing their glands and need some help relieving the pressure. When a dog scoots their butt across the ground, they are attempting to relieve this pressure themselves. This move also leaves some stinky-smelling stuff on your carpet. You can express your dog’s glands at home, but there is no shame in having a professional do it. We don’t blame you.
The sanitary areas are also important for ‘doggie business.’ Long hairs can trap urine or fecal matter in their fur and no one wants to have that in their house! Regular trimming of the sanitary areas keeps everything hygienic and will be much more comfortable for your pet.
Specialty Spa Treatments
On top of the signature service, Splash and Dash offers some awesome pampering spa treatments that will leave your dog looking and smelling great.
Doggie Facials
We have a Blueberry and Pinkberry doggie facial which cleanses the pores around a dog’s face and muzzle. A facial also helps rid tear stains caused by epiphora and cleans up the fur around the muzzle if your pupperoni is a messy eater.
Pawdicures
An effervescent pawdicure attends to your dog’s cracked pads and will cleanse away any chemicals found in fertilizers.
Aromatherapy
What pet spa treatment is complete without some blissful scents formulated to induce a desired emotional state? Yes. We’re still talking about dogs here. Splash and Dash offers four different scents that help relax your dog with a safe ratio of all-natural botanical fragrances.
DeShedding
All Splash and Dash spa treatments are 100% guaranteed and this guarantee can be seen in the lack of dog hair no longer accumulating on your couch. Using specialty shampoos and grooming techniques, your dog’s coat will be sleek and shiny on their body, not your furniture!
At Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique we have a variety of care options administered by trained professionals to give your dog that same spa experience you receive at a human spa. We also offer top-of-the-line products like toys, treats, food and more! Come on by and check out all the fun happenings at our stores across the nation!
Use These Tips to Get Your Nervous Dog to Enjoy Grooming
At Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique we understand the needs of a nervous dog. Many adopted or rescued pets come from a difficult past. Dogs like this need special devotion to help them overcome their anxiety.
Some dogs love the pet salon while others fear it. A reputable grooming salon takes strides to make a dog’s time there a luxurious and soothing experience. Understandably, for a dog, even this pampering experience can be scary. A pet salon is full of loud noises from the clippers and blow dryers. Dogs can become fearful of other dogs that are also there for a grooming even when dogs are kept separate. All these foreign stimuli can make grooming a traumatic experience for a nervous dog. In some severe cases, dogs can have a full-blown panic attack from not being properly acclimated to the situation.
The issue with nervous dogs is that, for their safety, a professional should be the one doing their grooming. Every dog needs grooming. Without regular brushing, washing, and a trimming a dog’s coat can develop matts. Dogs that are neglected—without grooming—can develop skin irritations. Not to mention a dirty dog means a dirty house. Even though your dog may have some anxiety, she’s still going to need the pet care that comes with grooming.
No matter your dog’s situation, follow these ten steps to help prepare your dog for a positive grooming experience.
Step 1: Massage
When a dog goes to the groomer, a specialist will attend to areas of her body that need to be cleaned—even the sensitive areas. Her ears, groin area, paws, and glands will need to be handled. To get a dog ready for this, you can give your dog a full-body massage. Gently pet your dog from head to toe. Play with her paws and make sure you spread her toes apart. Play with her ears and scratch her bum. Making sure your dog is used to being handled is the first step.
Next, give her a massage on a raised table. This simulates the experience she will have at a grooming salon. Take baby steps with a nervous dog. Whatever you can do to make your dog more comfortable is a good idea. Plenty of soothing languages, treats, or a blanket will help her association with these foreign experiences a pleasant one.
Step 2: Bathing, Brushing, and Supplies
Try exposing your dog to as many of the sensations of grooming as possible. Re-create these experiences in baby steps at home first. Then when your dog is ready, take her to the groomer.
If you can safely give your dog a bath at home, give this a try. Constantly brushing your dog every day is also good for them. Get them used to as many sights and sounds as possible. Turn on a blow dryer so she can hear the sound then give her a treat. Hold up a pair of nail trimmers next to her paws without clipping—then give her a treat.
It might seem excessive, but for a nervous dog, this will help.
Step 3: Make Sure She’s Plenty Exercised
That old expression, “A tired dog is a happy dog” is very true. Not only do dogs crave exploring the world by peeing on everything, they need to get plenty of exercise. Before taking your dog to the groomer make sure she’s had a walk. This will give her time to relieve herself and workout any nervous energy.
Step 4: Find an Understanding Groomer
Not every groomer has the resources or the professional skills to handle an extremely nervous dog. If your dog suffers from anxiety or aggression, inform the groomer of the situation. Some groomers actually specialize in dogs with special needs.
Splash and Dash groomers are thoroughly trained with the professional skillset to accommodate for any dog. Our trained staff will work with you and your pup to ensure a safe and comfortable grooming experience.
Step 5: The Car Ride
When your dog is still a puppy is the best time to start acclimating them to car rides. Car rides can be very stressful for a dog. A car ride is a foreign experience. Your dog may anticipate a stressful destination like the groomers or vet. Take your puppy on car rides while they’re young. This can get them used to the motion of the car and the sounds of traffic. Drive around without a set destination. If your dog is older, you can still counter condition them to make car rides a more pleasant experience.
Bring your dog’s favorite blanket or toy. Make sure they are comfortable. Doggie car seats and restraints will ensure their safety. If your dog has stomach issues during the ride, this is most likely due to motion sickness. If this is the case, discuss anti-nausea medication with your veterinarian. Drive around without a set destination so that your dog will not relate a car ride to a stressful visit to the groomers or vet. This will curb their apprehension. Continually reassure your dog with a calm voice and plenty of treats.
Plan a trip to the groomers after your dog has mastered stress-free car rides.
Step 6: Training Visit
After finding a groomer you and your dog are comfortable with, ask if you can schedule a training visit. On this visit, you can walk around with your dog and help them slowly adjust. Your dog can see the facilities, hear the loud clippers & blow dryers, and can practice standing on a grooming table.
This also presents an opportunity for your dog to meet the groomer. A principled groomer will take the time to meet your dog and help her to relax. During this time a groomer can help coax her nervousness away.
Step 7: Special Equipment for a Nervous Dog
Dogs with anxiety are common. Over the years specialty grooming supplies have been made to adjust the grooming process for a nervous dog.
Scaredy Cut was developed with this purpose. Scaredy Cut are serrated blades with 7 comb attachments—1/2 to 1 or #1 to #6. This allows a groomer to trim a dog’s coat with the same precision of an electric blade. This silent clipper is a less abrasive way for a groomer to trim down a nervous dog’s coat.
Another specialty item that you can consider are Mutt Muffs. This headgear covers your dog’s ear to help them protect their ears against loud noises. Mutt Muffs fits the contour of your dog’s head and straps comfortably in place. The sound-reducing headgear was designed for airplanes but can be useful for dogs at the groomers. Another noise reduction product is the Happy Hoodie which wraps around a dog’s ears and head. This device was made specifically for dogs to help protect and calm them from the loud noise and high-pressured air from a blow-dryer at the grooming salon. The swaddling effect is similar to one that is produced from a Thunder Jacket.
Step 8: Aromatherapy
Many groomers, including Splash and Dash, have adopted aromatherapy into their pet salon treatments. The way aromatherapy works for dogs is through conditioning. You can train your dog to associate the calming scents with peacefulness. The ingredients of aromatherapy dog shampoos are typically botanicals like lavender, chamomile, and essential vitamins. These formulas are designed to induce a calm state.
Splash and Dash has a shampoo dedicated to getting nervous dogs to calm down. The shampoo treatment is aptly named—Relax.
Step 9: Acepromazine
Acepromazine is an over-the-counter tranquilizer and nervous system depressant administered for nervous dogs. The drug works as a dopamine antagonist. It is used to prevent anxiety during thunderstorms, fireworks, and vet or groomer visits. The effects of acepromazine last 6-8 hours and can combat nausea, stabilize heart rhythm, and lower blood pressure.
Before you give your dog any medication, consult your vet first! Your vet will be able to give you directions on a proper dosage for your dog and any expected side effects. Use of Acepromazine should be for a worst-case scenario option.
Some dog’s adrenaline will kick in under stress resulting in a more ‘drunken’ state where their behavior may become erratic. If your dog has been diagnosed with extreme anxiety, you may need to use prescription sedatives or have a veterinarian administer sedation.
Step 10: Take Your Time and Ease Into It
Allow your dog to adjust in baby steps. After a training session, maybe just have your groomer do a bath and brush. Next time, your groomer can try a nail trimming and ear cleaning. Your groomer will work with your dog toward getting a whole grooming session done in one appointment. Each time your dog gets a treat, and plenty of reinforcing loving approval. Over time, your dog will be less nervous and hopefully begin to associate the groomers as a relaxing part of their life.
If you are looking for a special place to bring your fur-baby click here! Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique is more than happy to offer their services toward nervous dogs who need accommodations and a loving touch to ease their way into grooming. Splash and Dash is not simply a grooming shop. The company offers a pet spa and salon experience that pampers your pets in sudsy luxury.
Finding a groomer is like finding a babysitter. You will want to leave your dog in trusting and professional hands.
Best Grooming Styles for Dogs that Live in the Snow
With the arrival of winter for pet owners in snow states comes a change in the dog’s grooming routine. Disrupting your dog’s grooming routine during the cold months can actually do unintentional harm to your dog. Dogs in snow will need additional tending to compensate for the cold temperatures but a longer coat in the snow is not the answer.
This is especially true for dog breeds that need more grooming maintenance like Maltese, Shih Tzu, Poodle, or Bichon. Nordic dog breeds with double-coats will also still need regular grooming to maintain their coat’s health. Pomeranians and Huskies both have a double-coat, but for the natural insulation process to work their coats need to be cared for.
The worst mistake a pet owner can make is to neglect grooming for their dogs in snow. When dogs walk through the snow they are more likely to collect debris. A longer coat doesn’t do much to keep a dog warm. Worse, it escalates the likelihood of severe matting.
Often in late February pet owners are scheduling appointments and their dog hasn’t been groomed in months. A few months worth of matting can severely damage a dog’s coat. It will take tedious brushing to remove the mattings and depending on the severity, your dog may need to be shaved down. Removing matts by brushing is painful for a dog and shaving is the most humane alternative. To prevent this, keep up with your regular grooming schedule during the winter months. If you choose to let your dog’s coat grow long, please brush them daily!
Grooming Style For Dogs in Snow
Depending on the temperature outside, we typically recommend maintaining the same regular cut you get during the rest of the year. If you get a “puppy cut” or “kennel clip” stick with this. Since every dog is different, speak with your groomer about the best winter trim options. The fact is, your dog will mostly be inside during the winter—cuddling up with you inside a toasty central-heated house. Unless you have a sled dog, keeping a “winter coat” isn’t practical.
If your dog is outside for an extended amount of time (we don’t recommend this) you can get them a sweater and booties to protect them from wind chill and snow melting agents on the ground. The rule of thumb for the winter is keeping the length around an inch. At this length, your dog will be warm enough while he’s outside and has a coat-length that is easily maintained.
A convenient way to stay on top of your dog’s grooming is to become a Splash and Dash signature service member. You can drop your dog off at your leisure for unlimited brushing and bathing.
Brushing is Essential!
As always, brushing is the simplest way to keep your dog’s coat in pristine condition. Brushing removes tangles, dirt, and dead hair. The process also increases skin circulation and distributes natural oils.
Even short-haired breeds will need daily brushing. We recommend a slicker brush, which can get down to the root of the hair. Thick coats trap dander and dead hair that needs to be removed. A good slicker brush can clear this away.
If your dog is starting to matt, be careful! If the matting is excessive you should let a professional groomer handle the situation. Matting is a painful experience for a dog. It’s a massive tangle of hair that is under constant pulling and pressure. Brushing stops matts from forming.
Protect the Paws
Walking through the snow is strenuous on our dog’s paws. Issues like cracked paws, irritation, infections from snow, salt, mud, gravel, and the overall low temperatures can develop from exposure to the snow. Also, snow melting agents like rock salt can be very harmful. Not only can they burn a dog’s paws but if a dog licks the substance off their paws it can upset their stomach or even be toxic.
If you see driveways or sidewalks with a blue or green colored substance poured over the walkway it’s best to avoid walking your dog over this area.
A good habit to establish for dogs in snow is to wipe off their paws after every outing. This will dry their feet and remove any debris. Watch out for snow or mud balls between the pads.
Winter Bathing
It is perfectly fine to have your dog washed during the winter. For a dog, walking through the snow is like walking through a freezing cloud of dirt. The snow is their new toy that gets them just as dirty as the mud. Dogs love it!
When you take your dog to the pet salon they should never leave wet. Dogs must be thoroughly dry before going outside into the cold temperatures to prevent hypothermia. Even during the warm month’s dog groomers should fully dry every dog.
Between baths, you can sprinkle dry shampoo or cornstarch into your dog’s coat. Be sure to brush the powder out completely. This will refresh your dog’s coat and remove any foul odors. Since your dog will be spending more time inside, in close proximity of the family’s noses, bathing will be vital.
Don’t Fleas Die in the Winter?
Fleas are less prevalent in the winter and ticks are mostly dormant while it’s cold out. For this reason, pet parents and dogs alike rejoice the snow.
However, fleas are resilient creatures and can still live for months in your dog’s bed or your furniture. Maintain your dog’s flea treatment and stay vigilant for ticks.
Most dogs love, love, love, the snow and watching a dog play in the slushy-cold warms the heart. Whether you live in sunny Florida or are shacking up for the winter in Minnesota, please exercise good pet care for your dogs in snow!
One of the coolest waves to hit the pet grooming scene is pet paint! The product was originally brought to light from ABC’s Shark Tank, but since then has been featured all over the internet and dog’s backsides.
Pet paint really started getting popular after pet owner, and artist, Bryn Anderson first painted her dog Nixie. Anderson sprayed some white lines over her black German Shepherd and posted them on the internet. Nixie’s fame skyrocketed from there as it quickly went viral. How could these pictures not explode over the internet? Nixie looked adorable as a doggie skeleton for Halloween! Her skeleton paint job was so cool, the now famous skeleton dog has her own Instagram and Facebook pages with thousands of followers.
Since Anderson first posted pictures of Nixie, pet parents from all over have been searching for a way to replicate this on their own dogs. Pet paint is a sensational twist on grooming that can give your pup a unique look for any occasion. Pet groomers have caught onto the trend and are offering a painting with your dog’s bath and haircut. Many groomers and artists have made stencils that make the pet painting process even easier.
Party with Pet Paint
Fourth of July? Spray some red, white, and blue stars over-and-down your dog’s coat and you’ll have the star spangled barker! Christmas? Spritz a few blue snowflakes on him, or maybe even design a Santa’s little elf costume without the hassle and discomfort of forcing your dog to get into a fabric costume. What about Halloween? With pet paint, you can make an artistic rendering of lions, tigers, and…a zombie! Numbered stencils make it easy for you to transform your dog into a football or baseball player. Or, with some creativity, you can dress them as the ball itself.
The ideas are endless and even if you’re stumped, a few clicks around the internet open the doors for dozens of awesome ideas for your festive doggie.
Are There Any Safety Issues?
First off, pet paint is not house paint.
Regular oil-based paint contains a slew of chemicals and carcinogens like toluene and formaldehyde. These chemicals are downright toxic for dogs. While humans can endure through painting the house by opening windows for ventilation, this is not always the case for our four-legged companions. If you paint the house, be cautious with your dogs. You might even think about letting a friend watch them for the weekend or taking them to doggie boarding.
Non-toxic pet safe paint does not contain the same resins, pigment, additives, or solvents that household paint formulas have. Make sure you’re using a safe non-toxic pet paint if you choose to decorate your dog!
Use a brand that is veterinarian approved and has been rigorously tested to ensure its ability to last and overall safety. Pay careful attention to customer reviews when purchasing pet paint. Most pet paint brands on the market are safe and non-toxic, but not all of them are easy to use. Products come in ink blow, marker pens, and spritzing paint forms.
Depending on your dog’s coat(wiry or silky), using marker pens for paint application can be difficult. You might want to consider letting your trained groomer handle the painting for your dog’s safety and for a professional quality paint job.
There are only a handful of trusted pet paints out there.
Trusted Brands:
PetPaint
PetPerri
Pony Paints (Grooming Chalk For Horses)
Bark Art
Safety Tips to Keep In Mind
Use pet safe paint!
We love our pets and it’s our duty to keep them safe. Most brands on the market are veterinarian approved but the specifics of this claim are vague. If you have questions about pet paint formulas ask your vet or groomer. You can always test the paint out on a small part of your dog’s body before applying to a whole costume.
Try spraying a small dot—let it dry–then wash it out. This will warm your pet up to the idea and confirm that the paint will not have adverse reactions.
Where is it safe to apply?
If your dog is a fan of licking their paws, groin area, or any other part of their body—be cautious! The idea that ‘what is safe for humans is also safe for our dogs’ is a false assumption. Many dogs like the Shetland Sheepdog and Yorkshire Terrier have sensitive stomachs. Even non-toxic pet paint can possibly make them sick.
Be careful around your dog’s face and hygienic areas too. You don’t want to accidentally spritz paint right into their eye or any other orifice.
Measure your dog’s patience.
If your dog is timid or anxious it might not be the best idea to paint them. Exotic grooming like this takes precision and they will need to stay still for a long time. Foreign experiences can be scary for all animals, and if your dog’s disposition makes them easily frightened, painting them might be too stressful. Consider their tolerance and go from there.
Professional Grooming is the Best Idea
Dogs require a lot of attention to detail when it comes to grooming. Groomers use equipment like clippers and dremmels which can be scary for a dog who’s not used to the grooming process. Reputable pet groomers are trained and certified to handle and groom animals.
This professionalism is especially important when it comes to painting our pets. Pet paint products are still relatively new. You never know what possibly dangerous ingredients comprise a pet paint formula that is beinging sold out there. Dog groomers will guarantee your pet’s safety.
Letting a dog groomer handle the painting also comes with the benefit of knowing the paint will come out looking great. Groomers have the hands for accuracy to turn your pooch into a tiger, clown, or even a billboard!
Responsible Pet Grooming Can Cool Down your Dog for the Summer with the Best Haircuts for Dogs
The summer months are full of vacations, barbecues, and the blazing heat of the sun that has us all shedding into swimsuits and cranking up the air conditioning. If us human are stripping the winter layers, doesn’t it make sense for our panting dogs to cool off too? Yeah, Fido could probably use a trim down to contend with the oppressive heat. What are the best haircuts for dogs this summer?
First a word of caution. Many pet experts advise against shaving your pet. Shaving down to the skin can be harmful to dogs and downright useless for cats. Depending on the breed, shaving can damage their coat irreparably. Both dogs and cats have a natural temperature regulation system built into their coat. So when it comes to the best haircuts for dogs, it’s better to let professionals give your dog a cooling trim before shaving them down.
Brushing is one of the most important things you can do for your dog. It removes dead fur from their undercoat. This helps circulate the air flow to their skin. Brushing also prevents matting—tense knots of interlocked hair. A daily brush and having a professional trim your dog’s hair will be a lot less expensive than a trip to the veterinarian.
Responsible Grooming: Dangers of Shaving
For the last 15,000 years of doggie domestication, humans have been breeding dogs to develop thicker coats than other breeds. Northern breeds like the Husky, Samoyed, Chow Chow, American Eskimo and their lap dog counterpart—the Pomeranian—have double coats. These dogs still need dog grooming, but shaving them can begin a condition called clipper alopecia.
This condition develops when the hair follicles of the outer coat are damaged. When the outer coat, or guard hairs, are damaged the coat will never grow back the same. Most owners of Northern breeds that are not ‘lap dogs’ do not want this to happen. These double coated breeds need the second layer of fur to insulate their heat during the cold months. Coats also grow back patchy, thinning, and balding spots are more prevalent after shaving. During the summer a regularly brushed coat will ‘loft’ as the dog walks, circulating air to the skin to cool him down. Northern breed dogs only need light trimming and have their hygienic areas tended. This will leave them comfortable without possibly endangering them.
Shaving a pet down to the skin also leaves them vulnerable to sunburn. Always leave at least one inch of fur as a protective barrier from the sun’s rays. Clippers need to be well lubricated to keep cool. If a clipper gets too hot, take a break and let it cool down before continuing the groom. Pet parents can talk to their groomers about the best haircuts for dogs that ‘choose humanity over vanity.’
If you have a Pomeranian and want to have the stylistic ‘teddy bear look,’ make sure you’re content to keep this style for life. If done properly, this trim will not be harmful to a dog. There are various techniques to pull of these popular haircuts without full shaving. Sculpting with a #7 blade combined with scissoring is the most common methods for the ‘teddy bear’ or ‘puppy cut.’
Summer Haircuts
The difference between shaving and a trim is the extent of hair that is removed. Professionals groomers have the training and experience to know how much fur to take off.
Breeds like the Poodle, Bichon Frise, and Cocker Spaniel must be trimmed. These breeds have hair that grows constantly and needs regular attention. The best haircuts for dogs like these are the bikini clip, continental clip, standard puppy clip, or standard kennel clip. Because dog grooming is so individualized, most groomers refer to general haircuts as puppy clips or kennel clips.
A kennel clip is most common for poodles but can be applied to all dog breeds with the same fur texture. It involves trimming the face, feet, and tail with a scissored topknot and poofy tail pompon. The kennel clip got its name from use hunting dogs. During the offseason, most dogs were ‘kenneled’ and needed a short cut with less maintenance. Thus, the kennel cut was born. The kennel cut is one of the best haircuts for dogs during the grueling heat of the summer.
Dogs that need to meet breed standards like Schnauzer, Wirehaired Fox Terrier, and West Highland Terriers are going to need expert trimming. These dogs have a harsh wire coat that needs stripping to fit the aesthetic criteria for a show. Stripping will make hair threads more wirey. This is ideal for pet owners who want to have their dog look as close to the breed standard as possible. If your dog isn’t a show dog, you can have their groomer clip them for the summer. Clipping the coat makes fur soft and silky.
Your dog’s summer cut depends on your vision and dog’s needs.
Safety Tips for the Heat
Never leave your dog in the car. Even if you’re just running into the store with the windows cracked, a parked car’s heat can swelter in just a few minutes. The temperatures can reach deadly numbers quick. The last thing you want to do is injure or threaten your pup’s life to save a few minutes.
Keep him hydrated. All our pets need to have access to clean and cool water. If your dog is a fan of ice cubes, by all means, add a few ice cubes to their dog bowl to encourage hydration.
Chill in the shade. Instead of sweating, dogs pant to regulate their body temperature. They draw air over their tongue which cools from the moisture. This panting process is nature’s air conditioning. Dogs have an easier time panting when they are under shade.Shady place’s air temperature is much cooler without direct sunlight.
Don’t leave your pets outside. Most dogs keep a core body temperature in the range of 100 to 103 Fahrenheit. When it’s baking outside, it is much harder for dogs to maintain this temperature. Don’t leave your dog outside for too long. The hot concrete can also burn your dog’s paws when the sun’s rays are concentrated on the street for hours.
Know the symptoms of dogs overheating. Heatstroke can be deadly, This is what it looks like:
Heavy Panting
Excessive Thirst
Glazed Eyes
Vomiting
Bloody Diarrhea
Bright or Dark Tongue & Gums
Staggering Posture
Fatigue
Seizures
Excessive Drooling
Unconsciousness
If you suspect your dog of overheating, get them to a veterinarian! Acting fast can save your dog’s life!
We at Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique hope you and your dogs can look cool, and stay cool, with the best dog haircuts and making informed decisions!
Consider Using a Pet Salon to Pamper Your Pooch and Safeguard Their Wellness with Professional Grooming
I remember the days before I found my dog. The family would get home from work and school to find an unsettling quiet within our house. Then we got Mercedes—my lovely Yorkshire Terrier—and things became pleasantly different. Mercedes is the princess of the house and I wanted to treat her like one. I started taking her to the pet salon where she was tended for as the furry diva she is.
This is what I wanted. Dogs are not simply pets, they are part of the family and won’t go rotten when you spoil them like kids. Of course, Mercedes gets the best food on a rotational diet, her choice of plush toys, and high-quality veterinarian service. But when I took her to these big-box pet salons for grooming we both walked away unexcited.
The service was mediocre. Usually some kid who didn’t know the first thing about my dog’s needs. The prices seemed a little outrageous for a standard grooming. I wanted a pet salon where the groomer knew Mercedes by name and would give her the affection I would, if I had the time to groom her at least once a week. This is when Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique started—a pet salon that is dedicated to education, love, and exemplary service that me and Mercedes perfected for other pet parents to fall in love with.
Using a pet salon saves time, money, keeps my house clean, and best of all I can trust the people who spoil my little Yorkie in extravagance. If you haven’t tried a pet salon for your fur-baby, I urge you to give it a try.
A Pet Salon Saves Time
Dogs of all breeds require a lot of attention to maintain the health of their coat, teeth, and nails. Dogs need to be brushed daily, especially when they’re shedding. Brushing keeps the house clean and coat and skin in good shape. The same goes for doggie’s oral care. Depending on the condition of your dog’s teeth, most veterinarians advise teeth brushing around every three days to once a week. Mercedes also needs her nails trimmed every two months and the process can be tedious. One top of all this, she still needed to get a bath!
As most pet parents do, I take my dog to the dog park routinely. The park is great fun for the dog, but it’s also a haven for dog’s to get insanely dirty. I had muddy paw prints and pet hair everywhere. We would come home from playing with mother nature strewn all over my house as Mercedes shook it off her coat! Dogs that live an exciting but dirty lifestyle need a bath once a week.
Who has time to do all this? I love my furr-baby but the last thing I want to do after work is groom my dog.
This is why a pet salon is so convenient! I can drop Mercedes off at the dog salon anytime I want where she can get a relaxing hydro-massage bath in sudsy luxury. If she needs any new toys, food, or even a new dog bed it’s all right there. Saves me so much time! If I were to gather all the grooming supplies and do it at home, I would spend hours every week tending to Mercedes’s wellness. I just don’t time have time.
With the pet salon, it’s a breeze.
They take care of everything which frees me up to do the things I actually love to do with my dog—her laying in my lap as I watch reruns of Roseanne.
No Mess, No Fuss
Mercedes is good with baths. She welcomes the suds, but I have so many friends who say the opposite. Getting their dog into the bathtub was like trying to walk away from a used car lot in a good mood. That Boxer was not getting in the tub!
Then once you get the dog into the tub they act as if you’re torturing them. You’ve taken every painstaking step to ensure their comfort—good water temperature, expensive hypoallergenic conditioner, you even busted out their favorite treats to make the whole situation positive. Yet as soon as you turn your back for just a second. Boom! The boxers out of the tub and bathroom is now a puddle of dog hair and dirty water.
Every pet owner in the world knows what comes next. The shake. Before you can even get the towel over them—their shaking every drip all over the bathroom, coating the mirror. You can’t get mad, that’s what dogs do. What you can do is cut out the hassle and take your dog to a pet salon.
Every Splash and Dash facility has all the conveniences and supplies to adequately wash your dog. Not only do they have the equipment, but the well-trained staff is knowledgeable in handling dogs that hate bath time. Just drop off your dirty dog—grab a cup of coffee or get some grocery shopping done—then come back to a lovely smelling and happy doggie.
Also, one of my favorite parts about the pet salon is the price.
I was paying $100 dollars at big-box pet grooming places for a grooming and bath. At Splash and Dash, the signature service membership starts at $39.95. If you take advantage of the membership and get your dog bathed once-a-week, it almost pays for itself in time saved, no longer needing to buy grooming products, and the bathroom tub is fur-free!
Professional Grooming Techniques
Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique signature service includes unlimited monthly bath and brush per month. If you just cleaned the house and don’t want Fido to ravage the place, take him down to the pet salon. Whenever you have houses guests, before vacations, or if the dog park was particularly muddy—you can take your dog for a bath whenever you want.
Pet salon groomers are also skilled in cutting any kind of doggie haircut you want. From Boo, the Pomeranian’s internet-famous teddy bear cut, to showroom style grooming, to a simple refreshing cut for the summer—pet salon groomers can handle it all. Just tell them what your dog wants.
Grooming a dog is a super involved task and if you don’t know what you’re doing you could hurt your dog. Professional groomers at the pet salon are trained to pamper your dog as they trim their coats. It’s a combination of precision and love that puts a smile on your dog’s face every time.
Splash and Dash Groomerie & Boutique services Include:
Bathing
Brushing
Full-Coat Grooming
Teeth Brushing
Nail Trimming
Gland Cleaning
Pawdicure
Facials
Nail Painting
Nourish Conditioning
Aromatherapy
DeShed Service
The difference between a pet salon and your run-of-the-mill dog grooming place is, of course, the spa element. It’s like the difference between a barber shop and a day spa. You can get your haircut at any old hair place, or you can get the full package of luxury-fueled indulgence at a day spa. Pet salons are the doggie equivalent. Humans deserve some R&R.
