A shaggy dog story
| Published: 21st February 2008 16:44 |
We all walk a little taller and feel more confident after indulging in a few beauty treatments. But why should humans get all the attention? If man's best friend is really his dog, then why not pamper your pooch too?
We're not talking about mollycoddling your mutt to Paris Hilton-style puppy perfection, but a regular spruce up can do wonders for your canine friend. Let's face it, you don't want your friends sitting on your couch for five minutes and then spending the next three hours brushing dog hair off their clothes.
All dogs can benefit greatly from regular professional grooming according to pet experts Mypetstop (www.mypetstop.co.uk). The company claims a good brush and clip can help to maintain a dog's skin and keep its coat in tip top condition and your four-legged friend will feel the benefits of this immensely. And, contrary to popular belief, it's not just long-haired hounds that need attention: short haired dogs that are groomed regularly shed less, meaning fewer hairs around your house.
Choosing a grooming salon needn't be too much of a hassle. When taking your pick, you should ensure that the groomers are experienced and that the salon itself is clean, with modern equipment and a friendly atmosphere. Throughout the groom, the welfare of the dog must be top priority. If it's his first time at the barbers you've got to remember that he may be wondering what on earth is going on. Many salons will give you the opportunity to stay with the dog or supervise through a nearby window. You never know, you may pick up a few tips.
Mypetstop has a policy of holding a consultation with owners before any grooming begins. This is imperative and wherever you take your dog it should be encouraged. The groomer may ask about the dog's temperament or whether it has any medical conditions or allergies. You are also likely to be told what to expect from the service you've chosen, because most of us would admit we'd have no idea of what's involved and you don't want the embarrassment of leading your labrador out of the salon with a toy poodle-style bouffant now do you?
If you are unsure as to how to have your dog styled, groomers will make suggestions as to the best way. It's usually pretty standard for to the session to include clipping the dog's nails, cleaning inside the ears and plucking any hairs if required, as well as checking and emptying anal glands. Those are all the jobs most dog owners will freely admit that they dread doing.
So, next time you're staring in the mirror and deciding what to do with your hair, take a glance down at the tail-wagger sitting on the floor next to you and consider whether he needs a bit of a trim - because he's worth it.
COPYRIGHT: "This material is the copyright of Free Features Ltd and must not be used for any purpose other than intended - ie for publication with the associated sponsor's material. It cannot be sold or used for any commercial purpose outside the terms and conditions that form the contract of registration to this site."
