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When
can
my puppy have their first clip?
We can see your
puppy anytime after their first vaccinations are completed (normally
around 3 months). The evolution from a puppy to an adult coat is wholly
dependant on breed and a grooming regime will be suggested to suit.
Can
I prepare my dog for their first clip?
Whether for a puppy or an adult dog, the best way to introduce your pet to grooming is with an orientation visit. The dog will be introduced in a relaxed and fun way to the sights, sounds and smells of the grooming salon ensuring that when they come in for their first trim that we can minimise stress to the animal. These visits take around 20 minutes and are offered free of charge.
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All dogs should arrive with a collar and lead.
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Please ensure that you inform us of any special needs, ailments,
problems, ongoing veterinary treatments, so that we can ensure the
comfort of your dog at all times – enabling us to avoid any sensitive
areas, supporting any injured or tired limbs etc. If in any doubt,
please check with your vet before booking an appointment.
· Please
ensure that your dog is toileted before coming in.
My dog can
be aggressive; can we still be clipped?
Muzzles will be used only as a last resort and normally if required, will only be applied for a very short part of the process. It is very rare to find an ‘un-groomable dog’ but if we come across any serious problems during a visit we will of course discuss them with you so we can agree on a solution together. We recommend you see www.rockwoodanimals.com for dog training and behaviour problems with your dog.
So
long as we are fully aware in advance of their age and problems we
can ensure that they are made comfortable during their visit and that
the time spent with us is minimised. If in any doubt, please consult
your vet who will help you to decide whether there would be any adverse
risk in grooming your older dog.
Frequency of grooming visits will depend on the breed of dog and your choice of styling for your pet but the following will give you a rough guide:
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Curly coated breeds such as Poodles and Bichons will benefit from
regular visits every 6 to 8 weeks.
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Harsh or wiry coated breeds such as
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Long silky breeds such as
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Short coated breeds such as Dachshunds, Corgis, Pointers and Labradors
will normally benefit from a twice yearly visit for removal of dead coat
and a tidying up and treatment of face, ears, nails, ‘bits’ and paws.
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Double coated breeds such as the New Foundland, Great Pyrenees, Husky,
St.Bernard, Collies and Sheepdogs, between 2 and 3 visits per year
dependant on individual coats and between-visit coat care. Any dogs
regularly working outdoors or those who enjoy a particularly active and
muddy lifestyle may of course require more regular washing and attention
to ears, feet and paws.
What will the grooming involve?
A standard grooming session will include all/ some of the following; ear hair removal, ear and eye cleansing, nail clipping, pre-cut with scissors and/ or clippers, de-matting, de-knotting, dead hair removal, clipping of unwanted hair from paws and genitals, washing, conditioning, rinsing, high velocity drying, blow/ brush drying, finishing with scissors/ thinners/ clippers, application of finishing products as required/ requested. *Please note that as professional groomers, we are legally obliged to ensure that de-matting causes no unnecessary pain or suffering to your dog. If it is clear that to remove the matts will take too long, we will remove the affected part of the coat with clippers. Whilst this may not result in the finish desired, the removal of the damaged coat is the only pain-free solution to the most severe matting problems. Hair will grow back, whereas leaving matts untreated can lead to more serious issues.
Either give us a ring on 02920 886623 or send us an email martin@rockwoodanimals.com and we will be glad to help.
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