What does my dog need to get done?
There are different methods of grooming depending on your dogs breed and coat style. Many dogs such as collies, golden retrievers and german shepherds should theoretically not have their coat cut but they still require large amounts of grooming out and certain styling while still maintaining a natural look. While not highly sculpted they still should be attending a groomer on a regular 2 to 3 monthly basis.
Many other dogs we see have the following techniques applied during their grooming sessions.
Clipped trims
This is where the dogs coat is shortened and styled using a clippers and scissors. This would be the most common way of maintaining a pet dog in a cute but functional coat with minimal homework for the owner. Clipped trims can vary quite a bit in length and when we start to trim a new client it may take a visit or two before we settle on the trim that suits dog, owner and groomer. Ideally a clipped trim should revisit the groomers in 8 to 10 weeks. However those choosing to keep a longer length may need a 4 to 6 week visit.
Hand-stripping
This is speciality work carried out on certain breeds of dogs. A coat will need an assessment visit to see if it is suitable for the hand-stripping and to see what homework the owner needs to do. For a younger dog it may take several visits before the full coat can be removed. The "blown" or dead coat is plucked out to create the desired style. Time between visits for hand-stripping will vary a lot from dog to dog and will only become clearer as the year progresses.
Scissor Trims
This is another specialist technique for certain coats. There is a huge amount of preparation needed before the trim can proceed. The blow drying time, alone, for a medium sized scissor trim could be up to an hour and a half. The dogs shape is then carved in using various scissors and thinners. The coat will be quite long in comparison to a dog of the same breed in a clipped trim and therefore will also demand some more homework time.
After their initial visit these are the services available.
Full Groom :
recommended intervals - 5 to 12 weeks (Dependant on coat type and style)
Nails trimmed. Hair under pads of feet trimmed. Hygiene/Anal area cleaned and trimmed.Ears plucked and cleaned out as needed. Hair around eyes trimmed. Coat prepared for the bath by brushing or clipping. Full body wash, including a massage, conditioner treatment as appropriate to coat. High velocity dryer followed by warm air dryer until the coat is fully dry. Styling finished using a possible combination of clippers, thinners and scissors. Finishing spray and a collar bow.
Mini Groom :
3 to 4 weeks intervals between Full Grooms.
A special service for owners who find caring for their preference of a longer coat difficult and want to avoid the probability of having the coat shaved.
It includes all as in the Full Groom just without the removal of length from the coat.
Brush Only :
An in-between appointment service to help keep that longer coat. Includes a comb or brush out, finishing Spray and collar bow.
Wash Only :
This is for a well maintained coat in-between Full Groom appointments .
Suitable if your doggie friend has rolled in something unpleasant or is on a Prescribed Shampoo. Includes a finish spray and collar bow.
Nail Trimming :
Just phone to get an appointment.
Eye Brow Trim:
Complementary for in-between Full Groom appointments.
Advice on Diet and General Dog Concerns;
Just ask, I may be able to guide you in the right direction.
If I'm unsure I will put you in touch with someone that will help you.