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We all know that grooming is an important aspect of our dogs health care throughout it’s life. It becomes even more important as they begin to reach their senior years.
When I opened my grooming salon 7 years ago I knew I would be working with aging and geriatric dogs. I made sure my grooming facility would be able to accommodate all animals with all kinds of special needs.
The approach I take with aging dogs is very similar to my approach with puppies. You have to have lots of patients and realistic expectations when working on senior dogs.
We know an aging dog has slowed down a bit, for many arthritis is setting in, they can’t stand for very long and tire quickly. Its only natural that they will be less tolerant to grooming.
The way I look at it is, if one of my senior dogs is not in the mood to co-operate then I just give them a break and let them be until they are ready to continue. After all this dog has been someone’s faithful companion for over 8 plus years. They have more than earned our love and respect.
I too have a senior dog, My Akita mix Mcgwire he is 12 years young now, and what I find most important about his grooming now that he has gotten older is the fact that I can keep track of any skin conditions such as “Lumps and Bumps” that he may develop. As most dogs do when they get to a certain age.
We sometimes find “age spots” or ” Lumps and Bumps” on dogs as young as 5 or 6 years old. I always make sure that our clients are aware of any skin condition their dog may have, as they should always be checked out by a veterinarian even if they assume its nothing, because you never know.
The best part of grooming a senior dog is the way they light up after they have been pampered. An aging dog will come in acting sluggish and leave floating on air as if they have be rejuvenated in the fountain of youth.
I take great pleasure in working with my senior dogs. Unfortunately, I do realize that for some of my seniors the day will come when I am no longer able to groom them. Until then I enjoy every moment I spend with them.
I would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge all my wonderful senior dogs that I have had the pleasure of grooming over the years….you will be sadly missed by myself and staff at Pampered Pets.
Although it’s difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, may looking back in memory help comfort your tomorrow. -Author Unknown
Faithfully,
Anna Maria & McGwire
Gotta question? You can email me at:
pamperedpetsofwestmount@hotmail.com
