Susan's Grooming

10/11/2026

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09/30/2026

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09/29/2026

Hi everyone! I just moved to my new location in Alpine Vet at 4316 Christensen Road.
Call or text me at 406-628-9885 if you need further directions.

09/29/2026

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09/17/2026

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You may have noticed a few new Schnauzer faces among the adoptable animals on our website. 🐾

These dogs came to Stafford from a truly difficult situation, and they’re still decompressing, building trust and learning what it feels like to simply be dogs.

For that reason, they’ll need adopters with extra patience, understanding and a willingness to give them the time they need to feel safe. We’re looking for people who can meet them where they are and let that trust grow at their pace.

If you’re interested in one of our Schnauzers, we’d love to talk with you about their individual needs and set up an appointment. Please contact Stafford Animal Shelter to learn more. ❤️

08/28/2026

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I am a pet groomer.
Not a behaviourist, not a trainer, not a Veterinarian.

I think sometimes we need to remember where a groomer’s responsibility ends and an owner’s begins. Groomers seem to be one of the only pet professionals who are routinely expected to train an animal to tolerate the service while simultaneously providing the service.

If your dog is terrified of the vet, we don’t expect the Veterinarian to spend every appointment training your dog to accept being examined. We work with a trainer, learn the appropriate techniques, and then we, as owners, put in the work between appointments. My own German Shepherd doesn’t like being handled by strangers at the Vet. So I’m taking her to training. The trainer is giving me the tools to help her become comfortable with handling, but ultimately it’s my responsibility to practice those skills with her. It is not my Veterinarian’s responsibility to train my dog during her appointment.

Grooming should be treated the same way. A good groomer can absolutely work patiently, use appropriate handling techniques, recognize stress signals, make accommodations, and help create positive experiences, but we cannot undo months or years of fear, lack of exposure, or behavioural issues during a grooming appointment while also trying to safely complete the groom.

Desensitization happens through consistent, repeated work, not once every 6-8 weeks on the grooming table. Your groomer can be part of the team, and your trainer can give you the tools, but at the end of the day training and preparing your pet for the world is the owner’s responsibility.

08/08/2026

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08/07/2026

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