Cost Cutting Grooming Tips
When times are tough,
people frequently try to save money when it comes to grooming their dogs. Obviously, one option is to not take their dog to a groomer at all. Another is to go less often or shop for a salon that provides less-expensive services. Whichever strategy you choose depends on how you want to balance saving money with keeping your pet clean and healthy.
What Groomer's Provide For Your Pet
Keep in mind, in addition to bathing, drying and trimming your pet’s hair,
there are a number of other important services groomers offer. These services include: expressing anal glands; getting rid of parasites such as mites, fleas and ticks; searching for foxtails; cleaning ears; and trimming toe nails. Sometimes
groomers can spot a potential health problem and bring it to your attention. While groomers don’t diagnose health issues, they can recommend a call to the veterinarian to check up on whatever abnormality they found during grooming. Early intervention on a potential health issue is important and could save you money in the long run. Let’s take a few minutes and examine the pluses and minuses of each option listed above:
Stop Going to the Groomer
Do-it-all-yourself is a good way to eliminate most of the expense of keeping Fido clean. This is the easiest way to go if your pet is a small, short-haired animal. However, if Fido is a medium- or a large-sized dog, it gets a lot more complicated. Obviously,
your pet will eventually need a bath, and you have to be willing to take the time and effort to do it. This might be a challenge for you and your dog. Think about it: filling the tub; getting a reluctant dog out of hiding; commencing with the bath, including the soak, the suds, the scrub and the rinse;
drying your wet dog; and, finally, the clean up. And, if your pet has a beautiful long-flowing coat, a good complete combing and brushing will also be necessary. You’ll need to get rid of snarls since they tend to bind tight and will be very uncomfortable for your pet.
Extend the Time between Trips to the Groomer
As with the first option, this is easier if your pet is a small, short-haired animal. If you opt to go to the groomer less often and you have a long-haired dog,
you should consider buying a really good dog brush. You’ll want to get a brush that can smooth and keep the mats out of your pet’s coat. If you go too long without getting your dog bathed and groomed, and you do not brush out the coat, you could end up with a very matted dog.
If your dog’s coat becomes overly matted, it will cost you a lot more money than you’re saving when you take him in for an emergency grooming session. Plus, your poor pet will be very uncomfortable in the meantime..
Shop Around for a Less-expensive Groomer
Check with friends and neighbors for references as many groomers stay competitive with their prices.
Explain to a groomer what you can and can’t afford. Most will usually work something out. However, if you find a groomer who won’t compromise on his or her fees—and there are some who feel they really can’t or shouldn’t—then move on to another salon. The decision isn’t personal; it’s a business transaction. After all, Fido won’t care as long as he’s being cared for.
By Colleen Riley
