Cutting Dog Grooming Costs
By Colleen Riley
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 dogs 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 Groomers Provide for Your Dog
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.
RELATED: Clipping Your Dog’s 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 calling a veterinarian to check up on whatever abnormality they found on your dog during grooming. Early intervention on a potential health issue is important and could save you money in the long run. Below, we provide tips to help you save money on grooming your dog.
How to Save Money on Grooming
Do it Yourself
Do-it-yourself is a good way to eliminate most of the expenses of keeping your canine clean. This is the easiest way to go if your pet is a small, short-haired animal. However, if he’s a medium- or a large-sized dog, it gets a lot more complicated. Obviously, your dog will eventually need a bath and you have to be willing to take the time and effort to do it. This may be a challenge for you and your dog.
Think about it: you have to fill the tub, get a reluctant dog out of hiding, commence with the bath (including the soak, suds, scrub and rinse), dry your wet dog and, finally, clean up. And, if your dog 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.
Brush Your Dog’s Coat Often
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 don’t 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.
Look for a Less-Expensive Groomer
Ask your friends and neighbors for references, as many dog 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 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, your dog won’t care as long as he’s being cared for.
You may also like: Dog Grooming Supplies
