Month: July 2024

Hot Weather Safety Tips for Pets

Post author By Smoochie Pooch
Post date July 22, 2024

Summer brings a host of joys for pets and their owners, from outdoor play to longer walks. However, the season also presents unique challenges that require careful attention to ensure your pets remain safe and comfortable. From managing the risks of overheating and protecting sensitive paws to safeguarding against toxic plants and hazardous chemicals, there are several key considerations to keep in mind. Additionally, activities like swimming, exposure to fireworks and yard safety demand specific precautions to prevent distress or harm. This blog will help you navigate these summer challenges and provide practical tips.

Overheating Signs in Pets

Overheating in pets is a serious concern, especially during hot weather. Key signs to watch for include excessive panting, drooling and difficulty breathing. Pets may also exhibit increased heart rates, lethargy and weakness. In severe cases, vomiting, diarrhea and even seizures can occur. It’s crucial to keep pets cool and hydrated, and seek immediate veterinary attention if these symptoms are observed.

Fresh, Clean Water Always Available

Hydration helps regulate body temperature and prevents overheating. Ensure water bowls are placed in cool, shaded areas and refill them regularly to keep the water fresh. Consider using multiple water stations around your home and yard to make it easy for pets to stay hydrated. Ice cubes can be added to the water to keep it cool longer. Keeping your pet properly hydrated is a simple yet crucial step in maintaining their health and comfort during the heat.

But Don’t Let Them Drink Too Fast

Excessive heat can tempt your pet to drink too much water too quickly, leading to painful bloating. To prevent this, control when and how much they drink by offering small-to-moderate amounts of water at a time. Place multiple small bowls throughout your home or yard to curb the urge to drink all at once. Limit water intake 30 minutes before any intense exercise, and take their bowl away if they start guzzling. You want your pets to drink enough to satisfy their thirst and cool down without risking any harm, so encourage slow and steady hydration.

Never Leave a Pet in a Parked Car

Never leave pets unattended in a vehicle, even for a short period. The temperature inside a hot vehicle can rise dramatically and dangerously fast. Within just 10 minutes, it can increase by nearly 20 degrees, and in 20 minutes, it can soar by almost 30 degrees. After one hour, the temperature inside a car can be over 40 degrees higher than the outside temperature, creating a lethal environment for pets. It’s a common misconception that cracking windows helps; in reality, it has no significant effect on reducing the inside temperature.

Instead, take your pet with you or leave them at home in a cool, safe environment. If you see a pet locked in a hot car, take immediate action by alerting nearby authorities or animal control.

Summer Grooming

Consistent grooming during the summer helps keep your pet cool and clean. While many pet owners think shaving their dog will make them more comfortable in the summer, it actually doesn’t. Instead, it disrupts their natural ability to cool down. A dog’s coat is designed to protect them from sunburn and help regulate their temperature.

For double-coated dogs, this is especially important, and their coat should never be shaved, as their hair may not grow back properly. Shaving a double-coated dog may result in an uneven, unkempt appearance and puts your dog at risk for post-clipping alopecia.

Instead of shaving your dog, opt for a deshedding treatment to remove any dead coat. This is a highly sought-after service right before hot weather starts, but it’s also helpful during the summertime as well. Desheds help keep your pet comfortable and maintain the health of their coat.

Managing Heat and Paw Protection

During the summer months, temperatures can change dramatically throughout the day. The hottest and most dangerous time for your pet to be outdoors is typically midday, between 11 am and 3 pm. To keep your pets safe and comfortable, exercise your dogs or let your cats out in the early morning or late evening when the sun is less intense and temperatures are lower.

Paw Safety

Being close to the ground, your pet’s body can heat up quickly, and their sensitive paw pads can burn. To protect them, keep walks to a minimum during peak heat times and always check the ground temperature before heading out. A simple test is to place your bare hand on the surface; if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.

This is especially important for surfaces like sand, which can become dangerously hot—over 100 degrees Fahrenheit even when the air temperature is only 75 degrees, and exceeding 120 degrees at 90 degrees ambient temperature.

Keeping Your Dog Safe Around Water

Water can be a dangerous place for dogs, so never leave your pooch unattended around a pool. Ensure they are experienced swimmers before allowing them in the water. If your dog needs help with buoyancy, fit them with a life jacket designed for pets. Regular breaks are essential to prevent exhaustion, as even the most energetic dogs can tire quickly.

Yard Safety

Toxic Plants

To keep pets safe in your yard, it’s important to be mindful of toxic plants. Many common garden plants, such as lilies, azaleas and oleander, can be harmful or even fatal if ingested by pets. Other dangerous plants include daffodils, fox glove and sago palms. It’s a good idea to identify and remove toxic plants from your yard or keep them in areas inaccessible to your pets. Opt for pet-safe plants like marigolds, petunias and sunflowers to create a safe outdoor space.

Herbicides and Insecticides

Herbicides and insecticides can also pose serious health risks to pets. Chemicals used to treat lawns and gardens can be toxic if ingested, inhaled or absorbed through the skin. Always check product labels for pet safety and avoid using chemicals that could harm your pets. Consider using pet-safe alternatives, such as organic or natural products, and apply them according to the instructions. Supervise pets when they’re outside to prevent accidental ingestion of harmful substances.

Fireworks

Fireworks can ignite a dog’s anxiety and cause significant stress. The summer months can be challenging for pets and their owners as the loud booms can disrupt sleep and create a tense environment. To help your dog cope, create a safe room far away from the noise, filled with their favorite toys, blankets and snacks. Additionally, consider dog relaxation training or conditioning to reduce their reaction to fireworks. These solutions can help your pet feel more secure and make summer a more peaceful time for both of you.

Make it a Great and Safe Summer

Whether it’s by managing heat exposure, safeguarding against toxic plants and chemicals or creating a secure environment during fireworks, each precaution you take contributes to a healthier and more enjoyable summer for your furry companion. Prioritizing their needs and well-being allows you to make the most of the warm weather while keeping your pet safe and happy. With these precautions in place, you can confidently enjoy all the joys of summer with your beloved pet by your side.

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Everything You Need to Know About Stud Tail in Cats

Post author By Smoochie Pooch
Post date July 18, 2024

Stud Tail is a condition that every cat owner should be aware of, as it can potentially lead to complications if left unmanaged. Understanding the causes, symptoms and treatment options for Stud Tail is crucial for keeping your cat healthy and comfortable. In this blog, we will delve into everything you need to know about Stud Tail, from its underlying causes and recognizable symptoms to effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Understanding Stud Tail

Stud Tail, also known as “tail gland hyperplasia,” involves the enlargement of the oil glands located near the base of a cat’s tail. Positioned on the upper side of the tail, a few centimeters from its base, these glands can become enlarged and overly active. This condition results in the glands compressing the nearby hair follicles and producing an excessive amount of sebum, an oily substance.

Causes of Stud Tail in Cats

Excess Testosterone

Stud Tail primarily results from an excess of androgen sex hormones, particularly testosterone. This hormonal imbalance stimulates the oil glands near the base of the cat’s tail, leading to their enlargement and overactivity.

Other Contributing Factors

Less commonly, seborrhea can also contribute to Stud Tail in cats. Seborrhea is a skin disorder characterized by excessive sebum production. This disorder may arise due to a cat’s genetics or from conditions such as allergic skin disease, skin parasites, hormonal imbalances or chronic yeast or bacterial skin infections.

Impact of Grooming

Poor grooming practices are often cited as a significant factor in the development of Stud Tail. Cats that are obese, have orthopedic issues affecting their mobility, experience stress or suffer from underlying illnesses may struggle to groom themselves effectively. This can exacerbate the accumulation of oils around the tail base, contributing to the development of Stud Tail.

Which Cats Get Stud Tail?

This condition is more frequently observed in sexually mature male cats, particularly those that have not undergone neutering. While less common in females and neutered males, these individuals can still develop Stud Tail due to hormonal imbalances or other factors influencing glandular activity.

Stud Tail may be more prevalent in environments such as shelters or cat breeding facilities, where cats may experience higher stress levels or have limited opportunities for grooming due to overcrowding or other environmental stressors.

Symptoms of Stud Tail

Signs of Stud Tail in Cats

Stud Tail manifests with several noticeable signs that primarily affect the tail base. These signs include:

Hair Loss and Greasy Fur: Hair loss typically occurs near the base of the tail, accompanied by greasy or oily fur due to excessive sebum production from enlarged oil glands.
Discoloration: Light-colored fur near the tail base may take on a yellowish hue, indicative of the oily substance accumulating on the skin.
Skin Changes: The skin around the affected area may become scaly, crusty or develop comedones (blackheads) due to the buildup of oils and skin debris.
Hyperpigmentation: There may be areas of darkened skin (hyperpigmentation) around the tail base, reflecting ongoing glandular activity and skin irritation.
Texture Changes: Over time, the affected skin can thicken and become bumpy, altering its normal texture.

Complications and Secondary Infections

Stud Tail can lead to secondary complications, such as bacterial or yeast infections. These infections may cause:

Inflammation: The skin may become red, swollen and warm to the touch.
Discharge: Pus or other discharge may be present, especially if there are open sores or draining tracts.
Itchiness: Itchy skin can lead to self-trauma, where the cat may excessively rub, chew or groom the affected area, exacerbating the condition.
Extended Problems: In severe cases, the self-trauma can extend beyond the tail base, affecting larger areas of the tail or nearby skin.

Treatment Options

Stud Tail is primarily a cosmetic issue and generally does not cause significant problems for affected cats unless the area becomes inflamed or infected. Treatment is largely focused on maintaining hygiene and removing debris. For mildly affected cats, treatment may not be necessary, as the condition may only present as a cosmetic issue, such as a bald spot.

For most cases, management involves the use of shampoos and topical products containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or other degreasing agents. These products help to reduce oil buildup and keep the area clean.

Ask your groomer how they can help! Below are before-and-after images taken by one of our Master Cat Groomers, Amanda Henry, after she performed her stud tail healing magic!

If an infection is present, antibiotics will be required. Ideally, the selection of antibiotics should be based on the results of a bacterial culture to ensure the most effective treatment. In cases of infection, an e-collar may be necessary to prevent the cat from causing self-trauma by rubbing or chewing at the affected area. Additional supportive measures include weight loss, pain medication if needed and creating a stress-free environment to encourage normal grooming behavior.

Castration can help stop the progression of Stud Tail, although it may not completely resolve the issue. In severe cases where the infection is painful and unresponsive to treatment, amputation of the tail may be considered as a last resort.

Prevention

Regular Grooming

Preventing Stud Tail in cats involves a combination of regular grooming and proactive care. Regular grooming is essential, especially for cats prone to oily skin or those with longer fur. Brushing your cat’s fur helps to distribute natural oils more evenly and prevents the buildup of grease at the tail base. Using cat-friendly grooming products that include degreasing agents can also help maintain a healthy balance of oils on the skin. It’s also a good idea to ensure that your cat maintains a healthy weight, and addressing any mobility issues can improve their ability to groom themselves effectively.

Regular Veterinary Visits

Regular veterinary check-ups play a crucial role in preventing Stud Tail. Routine visits allow for early detection of any skin issues or hormonal imbalances that might contribute to the condition. Your veterinarian can provide personalized advice on grooming routines and recommend appropriate products to use. They can also identify and treat any underlying health issues, such as seborrhea or other skin disorders, that might predispose your cat to developing Stud Tail.

In Summary

Stud Tail is a condition that primarily affects the base of a cat’s tail due to overactive oil glands. While it is often a cosmetic issue, it can lead to more severe complications if left untreated. Regular grooming and veterinary check-ups are vital in preventing and managing Stud Tail. By maintaining good hygiene, using appropriate grooming products and addressing any underlying health issues, you can help your cat avoid the discomfort associated with this condition. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice and treatment options to keep your feline companion happy and healthy.

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5 Reasons to Take Your Pet to a Professional Groomer

Post author By Smoochie Pooch
Post date July 15, 2024

Choosing to groom your pet at home may seem convenient, but when it comes to ensuring quality, efficiency and safety for your beloved companion, opting for a professional groomer proves to be the superior choice. Professional groomers offer a wealth of benefits, from their specialized expertise and access to professional-grade equipment to the range of services they provide. This blog emphasizes the importance of a groomer’s training, the comprehensive care they offer and how their services not only save you time but also contribute to long-term cost savings.

1. Expertise and Knowledge

Expertise in Grooming Techniques and Breed-Specific Needs

Grooming a dog involves various techniques and skills that require practice and in-depth knowledge, which professional groomers possess. These experts have extensive experience working with different dog breeds and coat types, allowing them to identify and address specific grooming needs.

Understanding the distinct grooming requirements of various breeds is important. Each breed has unique needs, from the texture and length of their coats to their skin sensitivities. Professional pet groomers are trained to cater to these specific needs, ensuring that each pet receives the appropriate care. For instance, double-coated breeds like huskies need different grooming techniques compared to single-coated breeds like poodles.

Recognition and Handling of Skin Conditions

In addition to breed-specific knowledge, professional groomers are well-versed in recognizing and handling skin conditions. They can identify issues such as hot spots, allergies and parasites, which might go unnoticed by an untrained eye. Proper handling of these conditions is essential to prevent further complications and ensure the pet’s comfort. Home grooming may lead to missing these critical aspects or not achieving the same level of care and expertise as a professional groomer.

2. Safety and Handling

Reducing the Risk of Injury

Groomers are trained to handle pets safely, significantly reducing the risk of injury. They know how to restrain pets gently and securely, preventing accidents during the grooming process. Their expertise allows them to maneuver around sensitive areas, like the face and paws, with precision, all while keeping your pet calm and unharmed throughout the grooming session.

Proper Use of Grooming Tools and Products

Proper use of grooming tools and products is important to avoid harm. Professional groomers have the experience and training to use scissors, clippers and other tools correctly. They are knowledgeable about the right products to use for different coat types and skin conditions, preventing potential reactions or irritations that could occur with improper product use.

Managing Anxious or Aggressive Pets

Experience with anxious or aggressive pets is another advantage. Professional groomers know how to calm and manage pets with behavioral issues, ensuring a stress-free and safe grooming experience for all involved. They use techniques and calming strategies tailored to each pet’s needs, creating a soothing environment that helps even the most nervous pets feel more comfortable.

Preventing Personal Injury

Grooming your pet is a physically demanding activity that requires strength, agility, and proper technique. One wrong move, and you could strain your back, shoulder, knee or another part of your body. This risk of injury increases as you age and your body becomes less resilient. Professional pet groomers are trained in proper ergonomics and body mechanics to minimize the risk of injury. They learn how to move, stand and position themselves in ways that protect their bodies from strain and injury. By employing these techniques, professional groomers can perform their tasks safely, ensuring their long-term health. In contrast, pet owners may not be aware of these best practices, increasing their risk of injury while grooming their pets at home.

3. Access to Professional Equipment

Professional groomers use high-quality grooming tools and equipment that are often superior to what is available to the average pet owner. These tools include precision clippers, specialty combs, specialized shears and high-powered dryers, all designed to provide a thorough grooming process. The use of such equipment helps achieve a polished and professional look that is hard to replicate at home.

The benefits of professional-grade shampoos, conditioners and treatments can visibly be seen in your pet’s coat. These products are formulated to address specific coat and skin needs, such as hypoallergenic shampoos for sensitive skin or conditioners that enhance coat shine and texture. Professional groomers know which products to use for each pet, ensuring optimal results and promoting overall skin and coat health.

4. Comprehensive Grooming Services

Pet salons offer a diverse array of services that extend beyond basic bathing and brushing. For instance, at Smoochie Pooch, Additional Services include Deshed Treatment, Blueberry Facial, Exfoliating Skin & Coat Detox, Hand Stripping and more. Each of these services requires specific skills and tools to be performed safely and effectively.

These specialized treatments address various needs of your pet, such as removing dead undercoats, brightening under-eye discoloration and providing relief for skin conditions. Attempting to provide these services at home can be labor-intensive and time-consuming, requiring significant effort and education to achieve similar results.

5.Convenience and Saving Time

Time-Saving and Efficiency

Taking your pet to a professional groomer saves you significant time and effort compared to grooming at home. Grooming a pet yourself can be time-consuming, whereas professional groomers can efficiently complete the job, allowing you to focus on other activities. Whether you schedule an appointment at a pet salon or opt for mobile grooming, you can multitask while your dog or cat receives expert grooming care.

Convenience and Cost Savings

The convenience of scheduled appointments and regular grooming routines cannot be overstated. Professional groomers offer flexible scheduling, allowing you to choose times that fit your busy lifestyle. Regular appointments ensure that your pet receives consistent care, keeping them clean, healthy and well-groomed all year round.

Additionally, by opting for professional grooming services, you save money on all the tools you would have to buy to properly groom your dog. High-quality grooming equipment can be expensive, and purchasing the necessary brushes, clippers, scissors and nail trimmers can add up quickly. A groomer typically invests between $600 and a couple thousand dollars in quality tools. Professional groomers already have access to the best tools and products, sparing you the initial investment and ongoing maintenance costs associated with home grooming.

Advantages of Professional Pet Grooming

Choosing professional grooming services for your pet offers numerous advantages that extend beyond aesthetic appeal. From the expertise in grooming techniques and breed-specific needs to the safety and handling skills that prevent injury, professional groomers provide comprehensive care that enhances your pet’s quality of life. Access to professional equipment, comprehensive grooming services and the convenience of time-saving appointments further underscore the value of trusting experts with your pet’s grooming needs. Ultimately, investing in professional grooming not only saves you time and effort but also ensures that your beloved pet receives top-notch care that promotes their health and happiness.

Tags advantages of professional grooming, cat grooming

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What to Do When You Find a Pet in a Hot Car

Post author By Smoochie Pooch
Post date July 11, 2024

Photo of a dog left in a car during a hot summer day. Animal care. Responsible dog owner

Each year, many pets face the risk of harm or even death when left unattended in hot, locked cars—a situation that can be prevented with awareness and timely intervention. Even on moderately warm days, the interior of a car can quickly become dangerously hot, posing significant risks to pets. Recognizing the signs of distress and knowing how to respond can make a crucial difference in saving these vulnerable animals. This blog aims to provide practical guidance on how to handle such emergencies responsibly and legally, ensuring that you can effectively assist in saving a pet’s life when it matters most.

How Quickly a Car Heats Up

The temperature inside a vehicle can rise dramatically and dangerously fast. Within just 10 minutes, it can increase by nearly 20 degrees, and in 20 minutes, it can soar by almost 30 degrees. After one hour, the temperature inside a car can be over 40 degrees higher than the outside temperature, creating a lethal environment for pets. It’s a common misconception that cracking windows helps; in reality, it has no significant effect on reducing the inside temperature. It is crucial never to leave pets unattended in a vehicle, even for a short period.

Effects on Pets

Pets locked in hot cars can suffer from heatstroke within minutes, as temperatures inside a vehicle can soar to dangerous levels quickly, even on mild days. Heatstroke symptoms in pets include heavy panting, drooling, rapid heartbeat, lethargy, vomiting and unresponsiveness. If not treated promptly, heatstroke can lead to severe dehydration, organ failure or death. The long-term health consequences of surviving such an ordeal can include permanent damage to the heart, kidneys, liver and brain. It’s crucial to recognize the signs and act swiftly to prevent irreversible harm or fatality.

What to Do When You See A Pet in a Hot Locked Vehicle

This issue of pets being in hot, locked cars is so critical that 31 states have enacted laws to address it, with varying degrees of restriction on leaving pets unattended in vehicles. Some states have outright bans on the practice, while others provide legal protection for law enforcement officers and citizens who break into cars to rescue pets in distress.

When you come across this kind of situation, the best steps to take are generally:

Step One: Assess the Situation

When observing the pet’s condition, look for signs of distress such as excessive panting, drooling and unresponsiveness. Compare the pet’s symptoms to standard signs of heatstroke to assess the severity of the situation. Recognizing these indicators quickly can help you determine the urgency of the pet’s need for intervention.

Take note of the vehicle’s color, make, model and license plate number. This information is crucial for identifying the vehicle and alerting authorities or the owner.

Step Two: Time and Temperature

Take note of the outside temperature, and estimate how hot it might be inside the vehicle. Accurately noting the time and temperature is crucial for assessing the risk to the pet and helps authorities gauge the severity of the situation and respond appropriately.

Step Three: Legal Implications

Generally, in each state specific criteria must be met to receive immunity from civil and criminal liability, preventing the pet owner from suing the rescuer. For instance, in Indiana, you must reasonably believe the dog or cat is in imminent danger of death or serious harm and confirm that the vehicle is locked with no other access available but through forcible entry, while in Kentucky, there is no Good Samaritan law protecting individuals who break a car window to rescue a dog from heat. Instead, it is encouraged to call animal control and allow them to handle the situation.These conditions ensure that rescuers can act decisively to save pets without legal repercussions. Research the regulations in your state to understand what actions you can legally take to assist the pet in distress.

Step Four: Try to Identify the Car Owner First

Use the information you gathered about the car and approach individuals in the parking lot or inside stores. Inquire if it belongs to them or if they know the owner. Inside the store, seek out a manager who can make an announcement over the public address system to locate the vehicle’s owner swiftly. Periodically, return to check on the pet to ensure their condition hasn’t deteriorated while you continue searching for their owner.

Step Five: Calling Authorities

If asking around yields no results, the next step is to call local animal control or the police. Provide detailed information about the vehicle and the pet’s condition. Wait by the vehicle until the authorities arrive to ensure prompt assistance.

Step Six: Breaking the Window

In urgent situations where other interventions are delayed and a pet, especially one trapped in a hot, locked car for an extended period, faces imminent danger, breaking the window may become necessary to save its life.

Use a car emergency hammer or a center punch, which are designed to break tempered glass quickly and safely. Keep this tool accessible, and familiarize yourself with its use beforehand.
If you or someone nearby has gloves, wear them to protect your hands. Aim for the side or rear windows, as they are typically made of tempered glass and are easier to break than windshields.
Guarantee the pet is away from the area you intend to break, minimizing the risk of injury to the pet during and after breaking the window. It may help to ask another person to help distract the pet and keep them on the opposite side of the vehicle.
Use the hammer or center punch to strike the window with force at the edges or corners. Aim for a solid hit rather than a series of taps. Be prepared for the glass to shatter into small pieces.
After breaking the window, quickly remove the pet from the vehicle. Call 911 and remain with the pet until law enforcement or emergency responders arrive.

Step Seven: Actions After Rescuing the Pet

Immediately after rescuing a pet from a hot car, it’s important to prevent them from running into traffic or other hazardous areas. Secure them in a safe location nearby. Offer the pet water to drink and make sure they have access to cool, but not cold, air. Moving them to a shaded or air-conditioned area will help regulate their body temperature and provide comfort. Keep them calm and continue to monitor their well-being. These initial actions are essential for stabilizing the pet’s condition after the stressful experience of being trapped in a hot vehicle.

Good Samaritan

The issue of pets left in hot cars demands our attention and immediate action. Remember, if you ever encounter a pet trapped in a hot car, swift assessment and intervention can be crucial. From assessing the situation and gathering information to calling authorities and, if necessary, breaking a window safely, each step plays a vital role in ensuring the well-being of our beloved companions.

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What To Expect When Using Mobile Grooming for the First Time

Post author By Smoochie Pooch
Post date July 8, 2024

Mobile grooming presents pet owners with a convenient alternative to traditional salon visits by delivering professional grooming services directly to their homes. This blog details the grooming process and highlights the benefits of mobile grooming for pets and owners who may otherwise face challenges in visiting salons.

What is Mobile Grooming?

Mobile pet grooming is a convenient service where professional pet groomers travel to the client’s location to groom their pets in a specially equipped mobile grooming van. These vans are fully outfitted with all necessary grooming items. The bathtub has fresh, clean water that is supplied through an efficient water heater system, providing plenty of warm water. The adjustable grooming table can be set at multiple heights to accommodate all sizes and breeds. Other essential items in the mobile grooming van include a blow dryer and shelving for shampoos, brushes, clippers, scissors and other important tools.

All equipment and surfaces are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected after every appointment with Smoochie Pooch mobile grooming services. Our dog groomers prioritize maintaining a tidy, clean and sanitized space.

Smoochie Pooch Mobile Grooming Service Area

Though we have salon locations outside Indiana, Smoochie Pooch’s mobile grooming services are only available in northwestern Indiana. We visit homes in most of Lake and Porter counties. For up-to-date information, please visit our mobile grooming page to view the zip codes inside our service area.

The Mobile Grooming Process

Make the Appointment

Making an appointment for our mobile grooming service is as easy as scheduling a regular groom at one of our salons. Simply click the Make an Appointment button anywhere on our website.

Next, choose whether you are a new or returning customer. Fill out the form with your name, email, phone number, breed of your pet and your address. In the “Select Location” drop-down menu, select “Mobile Van: Lake and Porter Counties.” Finally, submit your appointment request.

Alternatively, you can call us at 219-286-3608 to speak with one of our friendly customer service representatives. Our staff are happy to help you book an appointment and answer any questions you may have about our mobile grooming service.

Day of the Appointment

Before your groomer arrives, it’s a good idea to exercise your dog and allow them to use the bathroom. This ensures a smoother grooming session by reducing your dog’s energy and emptying their bladder.

When the groomer arrives, they will park their van on the street or in your driveway. To make the process easier, keep any other pets away from the door if they are uncomfortable with new people. Have your dog ready with a collar or harness and leash, or have your cat in their carrier. The groomer will ask a few questions about your grooming preferences, inspect the pet and then take them to the van.

Grooming Session

A grooming session in our mobile grooming van mirrors the experience of a salon visit. Upon entering the van, your pet will receive a relaxing bath and massage, followed by thorough blow drying and a complete body brush. Depending on your preferences, our groomers can also style or trim your pet’s hair to your specifications. Nail trimming or dremeling, ear cleaning and a spritz of cologne complete the grooming process.

Additionally, our mobile grooming vans offer a range of additional services, including tooth brushing, anal gland expression, “nose to tail” (tooth brushing and anal gland expression bundle), extra scissoring, deshedding treatments, flea treatments, hand stripping and monthly specials. Visit our Additional Services page for more details on these services.

How Long Does Mobile Grooming Take?

Typically, mobile dog grooming sessions last approximately 60-75 minutes, although grooming large dogs may extend up to two hours. Most mobile cat grooming services are completed within an hour. Once your pet is groomed, they will be returned directly to your doorstep.

After the Groom is Finished

Once the groomer has completed grooming your pet, they take the customer’s payment directly on their phones. This means you can settle the bill conveniently right at your doorstep. We accept both credit and debit cards. Tipping your pet groomer is appreciated but not required.

Importance of Being Present for Your Appointment

It is imperative that pet owners be home and ready for their appointment when our mobile grooming unit arrives. If a customer is running late, the delay creates a ripple effect that disturbs the rest of the scheduled appointments that follow your visit.

Similarly, being present when the grooming session concludes allows the groomer to return your pet promptly and complete the payment process before moving on to their next client. This ensures efficiency and avoids potential disruptions due to unforeseen delays or traffic.

Advantages of Mobile Grooming for Pets

Convenience and Time-Saving Benefits of Mobile Dog Grooming

Mobile pet grooming offers unparalleled convenience and time-saving benefits by bringing grooming services directly to the pet’s doorstep. It eliminates the need for trips to and from the salon: saving pet owners time driving, dealing with traffic and managing pets in cars, especially in bad weather. This service is especially beneficial for busy professionals and multi-pet households, offering flexible scheduling without compromising on the quality of care.

The time-saving benefits also extend to those who are unable to drive, such as older adults or those with disabilities. Mobile grooming offers them the independence to ensure proper care for their pets without relying on others to transport their furry friends to and from a pet salon. This freedom allows pet owners to schedule grooming appointments at their convenience, without the need to coordinate with family, friends or neighbors.

Personalized One-on-One Service from Pet Groomer

Mobile grooming not only enhances convenience for pet owners but also ensures one-on-one attention for their beloved pets. Unlike traditional grooming salons, where groomers often handle multiple pets simultaneously, mobile grooming ensures that each pet receives undivided attention from the groomer throughout the entire grooming session. This individualized attention is particularly beneficial for pets who may feel anxious or stressed in busy environments.

Mobile grooming is also a great option for older pets because they often require more personalized attention. As pets age, they become more sensitive to their environment, making the quiet and familiar setting of mobile grooming ideal. Mobile groomers specialize in gentle, one-on-one care tailored to the specific needs of elder pets, such as gentle bathing, careful grooming and accommodating any mobility issues or health concerns they may have.

Reduced Stress for Pets

Mobile grooming is a great solution for pets who experience anxiety from car rides, loud noises and the presence of other animals in busy salons. By bringing the grooming session directly to your pet’s home environment, mobile grooming eliminates these stressors. Your pet can relax in familiar surroundings, ensuring a more comfortable grooming experience. Additionally, our mobile grooming vans are cage-free, meaning your pet is never confined, promoting a stress-free and enjoyable grooming session tailored to their needs.

Practical Solution for Pet Owners and Pets

Mobile grooming provides a practical solution for pet owners looking to simplify the grooming routine for their furry companions. By offering services directly at home, mobile groomers not only save time and reduce stress for pets but also cater to the specific needs of elderly pets or those with mobility issues. This approach allows for personalized care in a calm environment, ensuring that every pet receives the attention and comfort they deserve during grooming sessions.

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