It’s early July in Indiana and the sun is blaring down on you as you finish eating some of your favorite tasty watermelon and strawberry popsicles. You look over at your dog and notice they’re feeling the heat too- tongue out, flopped over in your yard, worn out from the twelve times they’ve already played in the doggie pool you set up for them. You start to wonder, “Hm, if only there were some dog-friendly alternatives to these refreshing summer treats.”

Well, you would be in luck! Chances are, if your dog has a favorite snack, there is definitely a frozen version of it. Perfect for cooling down in the summer, but nothing too hefty that it would spoil their dinner. Here are just a few homemade treats we’ve found online that your dog will love, and also give you something fun to do during these hot summer days.

1. Watermelon Pupsicles

Have watermelon and Greek yogurt in your house? That’s all you need to make this creamy, yummy, treat for your pooch! Learn how to make these watermelon pupsicles here. The website also provides a helpful link on where to buy a dog bone mold for when you make them.

2. Mint Froyo

Greek yogurt, fresh mint, and a touch of honey. Just three simple ingredients to cool your dog down AND freshen their breath. Who wouldn’t want that? Mint is known to be a powerful anti-bacterial that will aid in preventing bacteria from developing in a dog’s mouth. Get this minty-fresh recipe to satisfy your dog (and their breath) here.

3. Frozen Kong Recipes

There’s tons of unique, simple, frozen Kong recipes that will make your dog happy. They’re all healthy, dog-friendly, and super easy to make. You just mix the ingredients together, fill the Kong toy with the mixture, and freeze! Simple as that. Here is a small list of frozen Kong recipes you can make here.

4. Pumpkin Peanut Butter Ice Cream

The pumpkin and yogurt in this recipe are not only good for a dogs digestive system, but every dog loves peanut butter. Cool them down with some refreshing ice cream. The article recommends using freezer-safe cups, which you can find linked in the article. Learn how to make this homemade ice cream for your dog here.

5. Frosty Paws Popsicles

Using bananas, peanut butter, and Greek yogurt, your pup can be chowing down on these yummy popsicle-like treats! Put the ingredients in a blender or food processor, place them in molds, (using a milk-bone as the stick), and freeze them! Learn more about how to make these fun doggie popsicles here.

When our dogs feel good, we feel good. Take some time during these hot Indy summer days to experiment with some fun DIY recipes in the comfort of your own home. Although your dog might beg for more, it’s also important to remember these treats should be given in moderation! One or two tasty summer treats is the recommended amount to keep your dog feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to tackle on the rest of the day. Summer treats are for dogs too, not just humans!

As we approach almost the fourth month of quarantine, you may be looking at your dog and thinking, “Man, we really have got to get out of this funk.” Creating new habits and a healthy environment is essential for keeping yourself (and your pup) sane during these odd times. Many pet owners have claimed their pets are responding differently to their owners being at home all the time. Michael Waters’ article on Vox stated, “Some pets are growing clingy, others are pouncing on exercise equipment, gliding across countertops, or hiding in corners and shooting their owners concerned stares.” In order to combat these new strange behaviors, here is a list of activities (Tiki approved of course!) that you and your furry companion can do to keep each other busy.

Exercise, exercise, exercise!Staying active during this time is as beneficial for you as it is for your pet! If you’re going on walks, make sure to social distance (6 ft.), but even if you prefer to stay inside, there’s still so much you can do! Stretch and do some yoga, move the furniture around and play tug-o-war, or, if you have a backyard, run around with them and play chase. A little bit of exercise everyday could help you and your pup stick to a schedule and routine.
Play some mind games!Mental stimulation! We all need it, and so do our dogs. If you ever find yourself lounging on the couch- watching tv with nothing to do- look up how to teach your dog some tricks. There are so many helpful YouTube videos and articles online. It can be a great use of your time and also a fun way to impress your friends! (Take it from Tiki- he loves doing some tricks with us and showing off to other people too!)
Baking dog treats!Rosanna Pansino is an expert baker on YouTube, and has a very informative video on how to make DIY Dog Treats at home. The products she uses are all organic, and she offers substitute ingredients for any allergies your dog may have. Watch her video and give it a try for yourself! Baking these treats keeps your mind busy and will make your dog incredibly happy. https://youtu.be/l3Mb9RyW3V4
Get creative!Set up an agility course for your pup using everyday household objects! Examples include using boxes, laundry hampers, blankets, tunnels, and small forts for your dog to explore. Mix it up and even get your kids involved! Train them with treats and positive reinforcement. It’ll be a fun experience for everyone involved. (Safety permitted.)

Take some time out of your day to enforce some new habits into you and your dog’s lives, and everyday will start to feel a little more productive. Exercise, Watch YouTube videos for inspiration, and mix things up at home. In the end you and your dog will enjoy the new changes, and learn more about each other in the process.

In part one we discussed ‘human’ foods that your pup shouldn’t eat. In part two, we will go over common household items that should be kept out of reach of your pet!

Human and Animal medication: The Acetaminophen in Tylenol and other pain relievers may interfere with the animals oxygen flow and could severely harm their liver. Do not give any ‘human’ medication to your pet without consulting with your vet first. On the other hand veterinary pharmaceuticals should be given with caution as well. Just because they are prescribed to them, doesn’t mean they can’t overdose on them if given the wrong dosage. Always give medication of any kind under veterinary guidance.

Antifreeze: As many know, antifreeze gives off a sweet smell and taste. We as people of course know not to drink it, but our pets don’t and they may very well be tempted. Even a very small amount can be lethal for pets. Consumption can result in fatality for not only animals but humans as well.

Fertilizer: These contain harsh chemicals that are made to combat pest and weed problems. If your pet happens to eat some grass that has fertilizer on it, chances are he/she will probably be fine. The real problem is when it is ingested straight from the bag in its purest form. If this happens, it can result in tremors, seizures, and more.

Laundry Detergent: If detergent is ingested- this can cause gastrointestinal problems and lethargy in pets. The biggest concern is that the pet will begin to aspirate after the ingestion, which can result in aspiration pneumonititis (a type of lung infection) that can be very serious.

Plants: There are certain plants that are specifically poisonous to pets, while others are completely safe. Before purchasing a new house plant check to make sure they are pet-safe.

Rodenticides: These are specifically formulated to attract and exterminate small mammals. They may contain flavorings like fish, peanut butter, and more to attract the pest. However, these have a good chance of attracting your pet as well. Opt for baits that are considered ‘pet friendly’. These are created in a way that protects pets as they are resistant to tampering.

Insecticides: Just like with rodenticides, these are made with the purpose of extermination. If pesticides are necessary, there are a handful of safer options available.

Cleaning Products: Most cleaning products contain many harsh chemicals for removing dirt, grime, etc. With that being said- some of these products are of course harsher than others. It is just safer all around to keep all window cleaners, bleach, bathroom cleaners, etc. nice and tucked away.

Batteries: Because batteries are so acidic, if ingested they can cause mouth, throat, and stomach issues. When chewed or punctured alkaline batteries can leak a toxic substance that can potentially burn the inside of the mouth and throat. Not to mention- if swallowed whole they can cause blockages in the intestines.

Children’s toys: Any toy that isn’t specifically made for your pup, should not be given to your pup. Many children’s toys that have small bits and pieces can break off and potentially get lodged in the throat or intestines.

Dogs and pets in general tend to try to get into stuff every once in a while because they’re simply curious by nature. It is up to us to keep things secure and out of reach. This means locking up any potentially harmful substances that may be in our kitchens, bathrooms, etc. No one is perfect and accidents happen. Pets can be crafty little critters. If your pet ingests something that could possibly hurt them- contact your vet or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Center Hotline at 888-426-4435. Healthy pets are happy pets, and the more prepared we are the better!

Did you know that March is national pet poison prevention awareness month? Of course, most dog owners know the obvious foods dogs shouldn’t have, like chocolate for example. However, there are a lot of things that you shouldn’t give your pups that most wouldn’t think twice about. With March being the month to highlight these things, this gives veterinary professionals the opportunity to educate on what could potentially harm pets. To start, we’ll just go over some of the most common ‘human’ foods that dogs shouldn’t have.

‘Human’ foods to avoid giving your dog:

#1. Grapes and Raisins: Although science has yet to discover what is in grapes that makes them so toxic to dogs, we know there is a substance in them that can lead to sudden kidney failure. Until more is known, it is best to avoid giving these to your dog all together. Common symptoms include lethargy, diarrhea, vomiting, weakness, and decrease in appetite.

#2. Milk or Dairy products: This can really upset your dog’s stomach due to the fact that pets do not have a sufficient amount of Lactase which is needed to break down Lactose. This can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, and overall abdominal discomfort.

#3. Yeast Dough: Because yeast dough rises, this can cause a gas build up in the digestive system- as it produces Ethanol and Carbon Dioxide. This becomes painful and may even cause the stomach to bloat. If this results in the stomach twisting- this can become a serious emergency. Common signs of bloat include abdominal distension, restlessness, retching, and pawing.

#4. Alcohol: This is an obvious one to most, which is good because it’s among one of the worst things your pet can ingest. Ingestion of alcohol can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar, blood pressure, and body temperature. Some animals can even experience seizures or respiratory failure. Alcohol of any kind and any amount should be avoided at all costs.

#5. Onions and Garlic: No matter what form they come in, if ingested in a large enough quantity they can kill off your dog’s red blood cells which can result in anemia. Symptoms include but are not limited to: abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart/breathing rate, and lethargy.

#6. Xylitol: This is a sugar substitute used in many ‘sugar free’ products. This is commonly used in sugar free gum/ candies, toothpaste, baked goods, and vitamins. Ingesting this can cause blood sugar to drop and can potentially cause liver failure. Symptoms start to show rather quickly after it is ingested. Signs include vomiting, weakness, and seizures.

#7. Coffee, Tea, Caffeine: Sodas, energy drinks, caffeine pills, diet pills, etc. can cause a rise in blood pressure and cardiac arrhythmias- both being very dangerous for pets. Even a small amount can be very toxic.

#8. Macadamia Nuts: Nuts have a high fat and oil content- Macadamia nuts contain up to 80% oil- which can increase the risk of pancreatitis due to the high amount of fat. In high quantities they can cause weakness, hypothermia, tremors, and stiffening of joints.

#9. Table Salt: Ingestion of too much salt can cause sodium poisoning- meaning there is a rise in the sodium concentration in the blood. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, tremors, and seizures.

#10. Fat Trimmings and Bones: Bones can cause blockages or puncture or cause damage to their insides. Fat- could cause the pancreas to become inflamed which can result in vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and abdominal pain. This also puts your pet at risk for developing pancreatitis.

These are the top ten most common ‘human’ foods that are potentially harmful to your dog. Of course, we highly encourage everyone to do their own research on the matter, as there is tons of information on the internet about what dogs should and should not eat. Although there are a lot of our snacks that they shouldn’t have, there are still a lot of fun things you can get for your dog as a treat. You can always stop by a local dog bakery, they have many things your pup is bound to love. Best part is- these treats are formulated specifically for our doggie friends!

…Please stay tuned for part two- as we go over some of the most dangerous household items for dogs!

Each year we as dog owners have to take our dogs to the vet for their annual vaccines. Because we love our furry little friends, we want them to be able to socialize with as little risk of getting sick as possible. Just like our own children, we want them to be protected against anything that can potentially be harmful to them. Sure we’ve heard of people getting vaccinated for the flu, but what about our dogs? Why not protect our pets when we have the ability to do so? Canine influenza is something a lot of people aren’t super familiar with, but it is very important for us to educate ourselves on the matter. Not only for the safety of our own dogs, but for dog safety worldwide.

What is canine influenza? According to Merck Animal Health, “it is a highly contagious respiratory disease that is caused by canine influenza virus (CIV) Type A.” Although we’re now starting to hear more about the canine flu, the first strain of it, CIV H3N8, was first reported in racing greyhounds in Florida back in 2004. It is believed that this first affected horses and made its way to dogs. This strain can also be a little harder for veterinarians to diagnose. The second strain, CIV H3N2, was more recently found here in the United states- although it was first found in South Korea in 2006. This strain of the virus is of avian origin and had spread to 30 states in the U.S. by April 2016. Every year more and more dogs are traveling from state to state with their families for vacations, road-trips, etc. Because dogs are being transported so much more than before, they are also exposed to more things that could be harmful to them. Which results in contagious illnesses, like the flu, being picked up and spread of course. The canine flu is not a seasonal virus like the human flu, which means it can be caught year-round.

How is canine influenza spread? For the most part, it is spread the same way the common cold would spread through people, and we all know how easy that is to get. Does your dog regularly attend a daycare or dog park? It is most commonly spread through dog to dog contact. This could be as simple as licking one another or even sniffing each other. Sharing water bowls and toys is of course another big way it is spread. Lastly, dogs can even get sick by merely coming into contact with us! If we unknowingly come into contact with the virus, our clothes, hands, and other surfaces can be contaminated in an instant. It’s that contagious. Any dog no matter their age, size, or breed can get the flu- it does not discriminate.

How do I know if my dog has the flu? The most common signs include, but are not limited to: coughing, retching, sneezing, nasal discharge, decreased appetite, and lethargy. Although many cases of the flu are relatively mild, there is a small percentage of dogs who are plagued with severe cases. For instance, if the dog is very young or very old their immune systems are more compromised. Therefore, they are at greater risk for receiving the more severe cases because their bodies aren’t able to fight off the virus as well. Many people have the misconception that the canine flu is the same thing as kennel cough, because without diagnosis all canine respiratory illnesses can look similar. However, the flu is a viral disease which results in it being more difficult to treat than kennel cough.

With all of that being said, I think we all can agree that getting your dog the flu vaccine is the right thing to do. Let’s face it, if your dog does end up getting sick, you’ll be paying much more for vet visits than you would just getting the vaccine. Like most vaccines, this does have to be boostered two to three weeks after the initial vaccine. Once you’ve done that it will just be another annual vaccine to add to the list. Remember, the first priority of all canine facilities is dog safety. Most of these places will be requiring the flu vaccine in the near future if they aren’t already, so it wouldn’t hurt to get it sooner rather than later. Stop into your local vet’s office today to set up an appointment, that way your pup can get back to playing without a sweat!

*** As a reminder to all current or potential clients of Good Dog Hotel and Spa, we are requiring both rounds the canine influenza vaccine by 3/1/2020. For any questions you have about this, call us at 317-255-2525!

Given the gorgeous weather we’ve been having, Tiki decided it’s a good time to address the subject of outdoor dog safety. For this week’s blog, he sat down with Good Dog manager and doggie-care expert Michelle Moser for a Q&A session on the topic.

Tiki: I love taking walks on the Monon, but I don’t like my leash … it cramps my style. Why do I have to wear it?

Michelle: Leashes save lives, which is why this is such an important safety issue for dogs and owners. Always using one is the single most loving thing a pet owner can do. Even well trained dogs can instinctively and impulsively dart after potential distractions, so leashes keep you safe from fast cars, hazardous edibles, dangerous situations and even getting lost. (And one lost dog is one too many.) Plus, a leash allows us to pull back and protect you if another dog tries to attack. Every dog should be on a leash when they’re not in a securely enclosed area – and this includes the Good Dog lobby, where there are often lots of doggies and our doors can swing open at any minute.

Tiki: Why do I get so hot when I’m playing outside? And don’t tell me it’s because my stubby legs and excess belly weight.

Michelle: A dog’s average body temperature is between 100.5 and 102, so you’re naturally warmer than us humans and can overheat quickly on long walks, hot black asphalt or with extended time in the sun. Heat exhaustion and stroke are very serious for dogs and can cause permanent brain damage and even death, but owners can easily prevent it by taking walks in the early morning or evening, keeping your dog in the shade as much as possible, and always having plenty water available. If you notice your dog is restless, staggering, or weak, these are the telltale signs of heat exhaustion, as are excessive salivating, vomiting, and a body temperature of 104 or higher.

Tiki: So how do you care for an overheated dog?

Michelle: If you see any of these signs, immediately move the dog to a cool area and place a cool wet towel on their paws and body. Don’t use ice or very cold water because it can restrict blood vessels and make the situation worse. And see a vet as soon as possible if the symptoms don’t subside right away.

Tiki: Is this why you take me on a lot of walks on shaded concrete instead of blacktop asphalt?

Michelle: It’s one reason, yes. I don’t want you to overheat or burn your little paws. But also, walking on rough concrete can actually help file your nails down, which means fewer nail trims for you. And don’t forget how you cry like a baby at the sight of a nail clipper — I try to avoid these dramatic outbursts at all costs.

Tiki: You’ve also told me I can’t be left alone in the car, even though I love my car naps. Why?

Michelle: Cars are even more dangerous than hot black asphalt because interior temperatures increase so rapidly. There is a website, mydogiscool.com, that talks about how quickly a car can essentially turn into an oven for dogs, even on a cool day. This is an important issue for me and lots of other owners … our pups should not be left unattended in cars, regardless of whether the windows are cracked or not.

Tiki: Now that bathing suit season is quickly approaching, I’d like to cultivate a tan. Is that OK?

Michelle: You’re already very cute and most certainly do not need a tan. Actually most people don’t know this, but dogs can get sunburned, especially around the tips of their ears and noses. Dogs that are hairless, shaved, or with short white fur are even more at risk for sun damage. Ironically, some owners will shave down their dogs to keep them cool in the summer, but this inhibits a dog’s ability to deal with temperature change and puts them at high risk for sunburn. Regular brushing and grooming will remove excessive undercoat and help keep your dog cool, but remember not to shave them completely. For the extra cautious owner, you can also buy sunscreen made specifically made for dogs.

Tiki: Sometimes when I’m playing at the dog park, I get bullied because I’m a little guy. Do you have any safety tips for dog park play?

Michelle: I have so many dog park tips that I probably can’t fit them all into one blog. There are lots of online resources, including dogpark.com, that offer tons of information on how to keep your dog safe in a park – and not just from bullies. My first recommendation would be to observe the park for a few minutes before letting your dog in, and always stay vigilant and aware of your dog. Also, the exposure to other dogs only increases the importance of regular vaccines and heartworm/flea medications.

Tiki: Last but not least, I want to tell you that I love you, and thank you for always keeping me safe. Do you have any final tips for my readers?

Michelle: We talked about leashes earlier, but collars, identification tags and micro-chipping are just as important. Even for the most careful and cautious dog owners, accidents happen and dogs can get lost. I want all of our dogs to have the best lives possible, so I encourage owners to always use collars and tags — and if possible, microchip your pet. It’s only $10 to have your dog chipped at Animal Care and Control in Indianapolis. You can call them at 317-327-1397 for more information.

Meet Chewbacca!

Hi!!

My name is Chubaka but my friends call me Chewy! The vet thinks I am almost 5 years old and that I am a mix between a Great White Pyrenees and a St. Bernard. On this one beautiful day, I showed up at a “roller derby meeting” at the “Circle City Socialites”. I was a stray dog and my parents found me there. They instantly fell in love with me and took me home.

Some of you might think my name sounds familiar. I’ll give you a hint…My sister’s name is Leia!!! For all the winners out there – you won!!! My parents LOVE Star Wars!!

In the movie, Chubaka is an immense, fur covered warrior of great strength and loyalty. He is a wise, sophisticated being with exceptional skills in starship piloting and repair. And this, my friends, pretty much describes me!! My friends call me the “gentle giant”. I weigh approximately 120lbs, I have a lot of fur, and I am super-sweet!!! Chubaka also makes funny noises in the movie, just like me. I talk back to my parents and they say I sound like Chubaka from Star Wars. My favorite thing to do at Good Dog is play in daycare. At first, I was very scared of the floors. I don’t like slippery floors at all and I was afraid when they were a little wet. Now, I am used to the floors and I love to come in and play.

My parents also bring me and my sister Leia to Good Dog Hotel and Spa for grooming. We like getting clean and pretty, it just makes us feel so good. That’s all for now!! See you guys around town!

Article Written by Veronique Brown

Definitely a Mother Hen!

I know we have all heard about Momma dogs taking in a kitten as their own. We may have also heard about a gorilla taking in a kitten as her own, but I don’t think we’ve ever seen or heard anything quite like this story!

Mable, a one-year-old hen, has taken to keeping these puppies warm by snuggling up to them while their mother, Nettle, sits out in the yard at a family owned farm in Strewsbury, UK.

Owners Edward and Rose Tate said that Mable was hatched there on the farm a year ago and would have gone onto someone’s dinner plate had they not decided to keep her. Fortunately for Mable, she was in an accident with a horse. The horse stepped on her foot and because of that they decided to bring her in to their home!

About the same time, their dog Nettle had given birth to a litter of pups and after just a few days, she was up and about in the yard. Mable saw her chance and began roosting these puppies to keep them safe and warm while Nettle was out. She is truly a mother hen!

Article Courtesy of Kara Poole

We’ve always heard that a dog can be a man’s best friend. However, according to an article we ran across by Maggie Koerth for MSN Health and Fitness, pets can do much more than be our companion. Here are some of roles that our loving pets can play in our lives. We’ll hit five of them this week and the other five next week.

1. Dogs as Cancer Detectors

Man’s real best friend may be his best friend’s nose. Dogs’ sense of smell is incredibly powerful, but it wasn’t until recently that scientists began siccing that sense on cancerous tumors. Researchers wondered if canines could be trained to smell the chemical difference between patients with cancer and those without. So far, the results have been promising. Studies show test dogs can accurately pick out patients with lung, breast, ovarian and bladder cancers. In some cases, the pups have hit accuracy rates as high as 97 percent.

But don’t book an appointment with Dr. Beagle just yet. The detection method is still in its early stages of research. To really prove that dog detection can work, researchers will need to show that dogs can identify afflicted patients who haven’t yet been diagnosed by traditional means, as opposed to using previously diagnosed cancer patients and healthy controls. Critics argue the dogs might not be smelling cancer, but instead some olfactory evidence of lifestyle differences between healthy people, and those who are already addressing (and worrying about) an illness.

2. Showing You Whom to Trust

According to some studies, you can learn a lot about your date, including whether they’re likely to engage in abusive behavior, by watching how they treat their pets. A 2007 study in the Journal of Interpersonal Violence found that those who abused pets were more violent and more controlling. In fact, it seems that abuse of animals often overlaps with a tendency toward domestic violence and abuse of children. There’s also evidence that violence toward animals might serve as a sign, in children and adults, that the person is more likely to be violent with humans as well.

3. Calming the Anxious and Soothing the Depressed

Everybody runs into negative feelings at times, including fear, stress, and anxiety, but some people are hit harder than others, and studies show that animals may be able to help. Animal-assisted therapy has been shown to have at least a moderate effect on improving the emotional well-being of humans.

According to a large 2007 study in the journal Anthrozoös, researchers have successfully used animals to calm patients prior to a potentially frightening medical procedure; help patients with post-traumatic stress disorder conquer their fears; and decrease symptoms in people suffering from depression. How does it work? A 2000 study in the Journal of Psychiatric Research found that positive interaction with dogs can give a boost to the brain chemicals that lower blood pressure, which could be the biological basis behind these animal-assisted therapies.

4. Horses Helping the Disabled

Horseback riding can help everyone—from wounded vets to children with cerebral palsy—get back in the saddle when it comes to certain kinds of muscle control. Cerebral palsy patients treated with hippotherapy and recreational horseback riding therapy (which are fancy ways of saying, “spending time with and on horses”) saw improvements in muscle control and motor function, according to a 2006 study published in the journal Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology.

Victims of spinal cord injuries and traumatic head injuries, and those with multiple sclerosis have also been shown to benefit from time spent with pony pals. The key is in the way a rider’s body responds to a horse’s gait. The 2006 study found that riding a horse creates hip movements that mimic those of normal walking and can help people regain better control over their posture and balance.

5. Dogs as Workout Partners

Several studies have shown that dogs can play a role in motivating their owners to be more active, which could lead to improved physical fitness. The key seems to lie in what researchers call “non-exercise walking.” You probably know this activity better as simply “going for a stroll.” In general, it covers any walking that’s not done for transportation or a planned workout.

According to studies like one that was published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity in 2006, dog owners do it more. In fact, the JAPA study found no other type of pet that was linked to increased non-exercise walking and a 2008 Australian study found evidence that getting a dog leads new owners to start walking more. That’s good news for dog lovers. But remember, you only get the benefits if you actually go for the walkies.

Perhaps you’ve experienced some these benefits in pet ownership. If you have, we’d love to hear some of your stories. I know that for us over here at Good Dog Hotel, we feel honored to be able to take care of your dogs, and that we’ve been entrusted to do so. Yes, our pets can be so much more than companions.

Join us on Facebook!

Some more information about grooming.

Professional Grooming – Not Just for Puffy Pooches

By Janice Biniok

(This article was published on CentralPets.com, Jan. 2003)

When you think of professional dog grooming, do you think of bouffant Poodles, silky Shih Tzus or dapper Schnauzers? If you think professional dog grooming applies only to certain breeds, here’s good news for you: any dog can benefit from a professional grooming, even dogs with low-maintenance coats! And there are plenty of advantages for their owners as well.
Consider the problem of trying to fit your Boxer in the kitchen sink for a bath, or worse yet, moving him to the bathroom tub just to have him scratch up the fiberglass or chip the porcelain! Afterwards, you discover you’re wetter than the dog. And when you take him outside to dry, he immediately rolls in the dirt to dry himself off (sigh).

No Mess, No Fuss
One of the main reasons people consider professional grooming for their low-maintenance breed dogs is because they don’t want the mess in the house, according to Veronica Foster, veteran groomer and instructor for the Wisconsin School of Professional Pet Grooming in Pewaukee, WI.

“We do get quite a few low-maintenance breeds to groom,” says Foster. “Shepherd mixes and Lab mixes are the most common.”

The benefits of professional grooming are clear to Becky Bauer and Bill Krause of West Allis, WI, owners of Shadow, a Labrador, and Magnum, a Shepherd-Doberman mix. “Less back strain,” Bauer says. “And you don’t have to fight with them. When Bill clips Magnum’s nails, Magnum will jerk his foot. We don’t have to deal with any of that.”

Professional Results
It’s also difficult to duplicate the results of a professional grooming at home. With the huge selection of grooming products and tools available, professional groomers are more familiar with which products to use for different coat types to achieve the best results.

“People say they try to bathe at home and it just doesn’t come out the same,” says Foster. “We have better control of the dog because they’re tied with a noose in the tub, which enables us to get more shampoo on them. If they need to be washed twice, they can be washed twice.

“We have a wind machine that blows the dead coat out as well as dries the dog and stimulates the skin. Average customers would never have a dryer that costs $600. And if you wash the dog twice and blow the coat out, it looks different and feels different.”

The drying and brushing process is especially effective during shedding season, as professional groomers can remove more dead hair than is possible by brushing alone. A groomer will also clean your dog’s ears, clip his nails, and finish the job off by trimming any scraggly hairs to give your dog a more attractive appearance.

Benefits for Hunting Breeds
Hunting dog owners need not worry that bathing will remove the waterproof qualities in their dogs’ coats. “That’s a fallacy,” says Foster. “The way the shampoos are made, that’s really not a concern.

“Actually, if you have a hunting breed, you would be more likely to bring him in to have him washed professionally because dogs get into water that is rancid or stagnant and then fungus starts to grow.

“I really encourage the people with hunting breeds to come in and have their dogs done,” says Foster, who owns a Labrador Retriever herself. “It doesn’t upset the Ph balance in their coats in the least.”

Health Benefits
Professional grooming can provide an excellent form of preventative health care. During the course of their work, groomers go over every inch of a dog, which helps them notice any problems of which they can inform the dog’s owner, such as cracked or sore feet, ear infections and parasites. Since dogs often do not show obvious symptoms of a problem until it has already become critical, an inspection by an observant groomer is a valuable benefit.

“It’s not that we diagnose,” Foster says, “because we do not do that. We go over their bodies and notice if there’s a lump or bump that doesn’t belong on the dog. We’ve caught things like joints that are not quite correct. When we see abnormal things, we refer the owners to a veterinarian.”

Regular ear inspection and cleaning can reduce the chance of ear infections and regular nail trimming can avoid problems with the feet and legs. Flea and tick control not only eliminates the discomforts associated with these pests, but helps avoid bacterial infections caused by them or diseases transmitted by them.

Tailored Services
In addition to these benefits, grooming shops are often willing to tailor their services to meet your or your dog’s needs. A flea dip can be applied during flea season, conditioner can be applied to tame unmanageable hair, and special effects like hair coloring can be applied for special occasions. You don’t have to opt for the nail polish and hair bows if they don’t suit your (or your dog’s) image.

“If Shadow’s allergies are kicking up, she’ll get a medicated bath,” says Bauer of her Labrador who suffers from pyaderma, a skin condition. “The groomer will give her a dip and let her soak.”

Not all groomers attend the same grooming school or offer the same services, so you will need to check around for available services and pursue the ones that interest you.

It Makes Dogs Feel Good!
The most obvious benefit of professional grooming is reflected in the attitude of the dogs. A professional grooming for dogs often has the same effect as a day at the salon for people; dogs seem to feel absolutely wonderful afterward! Perhaps they realize how great they look, or maybe a couple hours of primping is a stimulating experience. Regardless, it’s obvious that a professional grooming makes dogs feel good.

“They strut when they come home,” says Bauer. “They think they’re the prettiest things on the planet.”

“I think they feel better and I think they appreciate the attention the groomers give them,” says Foster. “People are more likely to hold and pet them when they’re clean, whereas I think people have a tendency to push them away when they’re dirty. It’s a natural thing for a human to be more receptive to their pet when it’s clean, and the dog knows it.”

So if find yourself reluctant to let your dog on the couch or bed, or if you’ve been avoiding petting your dog because you end up with a wads of hair in your hand, maybe now is the time to consider a trip to the professional groomer. You and your dog will both feel better for it.