- Comb your pet as well as brushing, as brushing alone will not be enough to prevent matting (especially with long haired pets).
- When you comb your pet, the most important parts are its legs, underside and around its collar. If you're running short on time, get these areas instead of your pet's back and sides only.
- Practice handling at home. Your pet should allow you to touch any part of its body. Pay particular attention to your pet's feet, face and tail. Do this with lots of praise and rewards. Always end your session on a high note and on your terms.
- Start your pet's grooming schedule while they are still young. It will make the trip to the groomer's easier on them in the long run.
- Brush your pet often. It will remove dead hair, dirt and debris as well as keeping the coat and skin healthy.
- If your pet shakes when you drop it off, as hard as it is, try not to comfort it. Comforting is seen as praise and it teaches your pet that the behavior is acceptable. Instead, leave your pet as matter-of-factly as possible, just as you would with a child on their first day at school. The more you fuss, the harder it is on them.
- Please be on time. We need to schedule our days in order to keep things running smoothly. Delays in arrival or departure can affect the rest of the appointments for that day. I strive in operating a stress-free environment for everybody and your cooperation is required.
- Inform me of any health conditions your pet may have. If they have a heart condition, have seizures or even a broken toe nail, I would rather know about it so there are no surprises.
- If you bathe your pet at home, make sure to remove mats and tangles before washing them. Much like a wool sweater, these will shrink and tighten, making them harder to deal with afterwards.
