24/07/2026
When I first set out to be a dog groomer, I thought it was simply a case of brush, wash, dry, clip, scissor and send dogs home looking their best.
However, with many of the dogs that come through my salon door, that couldn't be further from the truth. Over the years, I have been faced with complex anxieties in dogs of all breeds that struggle with handling, touch, noise and many of the things we consider normal during the grooming process.
That is why it is so important to "train" puppies from the very beginning to be groomed. Start with the basics and, in a year's time or so, you'll have a dog that happily accepts the grooming process.
Rescue dogs, however, are a whole different story. I have had some very nervous cases that have taken years to learn to trust me. This week, I had a lovely rescue dog who is terrified of water and metal. So, it's back to basics in getting her comfortable being in the bath. Treats and praise, using watering cans instead of shower attachments, are just the start. Keeping noise to a minimum and everything calm makes headway.
So yes, rescue dogs equal patience. But I know that, in time it always pays off. 🙏🐾
