OK... You've got a dog, you know he stinks... where do you go? You know you can't wash his big furry butt alone, & you don't feel like soaking the entire bathroom trying. Guess what! That's where you have to find a qualified groomer to wash him for you. Generally your going to look for a few things.

• You want someome that knows what they are doing. Check with friends and family and ask around. Referals are always good. If Mrs. Jones has the cutest sweetest smelling pup in the neighborhood, ask where she has his hair done.

• If you don't know anyone who has their dog professionally groomed you'll need to look around. Call and ask about prices & scheduling. If you have a lab will the groomer take him on one days notice? Are they open weekends? Do they know the proper way of handling older dogs or puppies? Do they know the proper cut for the breed?

• When you bring your dog to a shop, pay attention to the dogs reaction. Some dogs love to be groomed, some hate it. If your dog is dragging you into the shop... that is a good sign. If you're dog has been to other shops & hated them but hates this one less... also a good sign.

• Does the groomer offer play time? I try to let the dogs play before they get groomed. It lets them get some energy out of there system, & for new dogs it allows them time to sniff around & realize that it's not a bad place. Once they are satisfied that they are not getting a shot in the butt they are usually pretty happy. We always have toys & bones to play with, and the owners dog is the official greeter. It seems that if one dog thinks it's ok then sometimes the new dogs feel a little more at ease.

• Does your dog wake you up on bath day? Does he or she get all excited as you near the place? Does your dog love the groomer? If so, you've made a really good match!

Feel free to email me with questions or comments. We all (just like animals) could use some positive reinforcement. :o) But please be sure to put regarding my web page so that I don't delete your email. Or you can sign my guestbook! I'm sure your pets would if they had opposable thumbs and or could type.

FastCounter by LinkExchange

All graphics were made by .....drum roll please..... ME! :o) I discovered Paint Shop Pro 5 & I made all of these myself. I also create Fractals! You can get to my fractal Art Galleries through my home page or by clicking Here!