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As winter comes to an end, it might be a good idea to take your furry friend to a groomer to freshen up their look and feel. However, not all grooming salons are equal, and your pet’s safety should always be a top priority. To make an informed decision for you and your pet, knowing what to look for and what questions to ask when selecting a grooming salon and groomer is crucial.

Here are some questions you should consider when looking for a salon:

1. Is The Salon Trustworthy?

The first step is finding a trustworthy grooming salon. Is the salon certified by a grooming school or academy? Ohio does not require that grooming salons be certified by law. However, a salon that goes the extra mile to get a certification like the AKC S.A.F.E. Grooming Certification announces to others that they are committed to using best practices in the bathing and grooming of pets.

2. What Are The Vaccination Requirements?

Pet parents should always ask about the required immunizations for grooming their dogs. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), it is best practice to fully immunize dogs that come into contact with other dogs. Some infectious diseases, like Bordetella, can spread quickly from dog to dog through the air when another dog coughs, sneezes, or barks and do not require physical contact. Some salons do not have any immunization requirements, which can be worrisome since there is typically more than one dog at a time in a grooming salon. What are the salon’s cleaning protocols? Do they sanitize equipment and tables between dogs to prevent the spreading of infection, disease, ticks, and fleas? 

3. What Does The Salon Look Like?

Some grooming salons allow for tours. If you are going for a tour, take note of the smell of the grooming salon. It is usual for a faint odor of wet dogs, but it shouldn’t be overwhelming. Any foul odors may indicate poor cleaning techniques or a poor ventilation system.

4. What Training Do The Groomers Have?

Many individuals who wish to become groomers choose to receive training through an accredited grooming school, while others prefer to learn on the job. It is important to note that most states, including Ohio, do not require groomers to be licensed. However, groomers who obtain certification through an accredited grooming school demonstrate their commitment to their profession. Another sign to look for in a good groomer is their commitment to continuing education through conferences, trade journals, and additional certifications.

5. How is The Communication?

Effective communication with your groomer is crucial to getting the desired outcome for your pet’s grooming needs. Establishing an open dialogue with your groomer is vital to ensure you can convey any essential details about the type of groom you desire.

6. What Do Other Pet Parents Say?

When choosing a groomer for your dog, many owners rely on recommendations from friends, family, or online reviews. It’s also good to check with your veterinarian, as they can provide valuable insight and information. While accidents can happen with sharp scissors and wiggly pups, your vet can advise you if they have noticed any concerning trends or an abnormal number of injuries associated with a particular salon.

7. What Safety Protocols are in Place?

A frequently overlooked aspect of your dog’s grooming experience is the quality and safety of the groomer’s equipment and supplies. Drying Kennels should be large enough that the dog can stand and turn around in the enclosure. A temperature alarm should be in working order if the salon has heated dryers. The washing system should have an inline temperature regulating system to prevent scalding. Clipper blades and scissors should be sharpened regularly to prevent tugging while being trimmed. Bathing tubs and tables should be stable to avoid slippage or fall. 

8. What Personalized Care and Products do They Offer Your Dog?

Dogs have different types of skin and fur, which means that they require different grooming products. Most pet groomers have a range of shampoos and conditioners to suit various skin and coat types. These products are usually purchased in a concentrated form. Some groomers dilute the concentrate manually, while others use automatic systems to mix the shampoo/conditioner to the correct concentration. However, it is essential to ensure that the end product is of the appropriate concentration to avoid any harm to the skin and coat of the dog.

9. What is “Included” with Your Groom?

Additional questions to ask include the cost of services. For example, is the cost of the groom/bath all-inclusive (i.e., cleaning teeth, ears, and nails), or is it a la carte, with each service priced separately? When your groomer trims your dog’s nails, do they also Dremel them, or is it an extra charge? 

Finding the right salon and groomer for your pup requires research. Knowing what to look for and which questions to ask is a good starting point.

    Water play

    Mild to Moderate Physical Activities

    The encouraging news is that alleviating boredom doesn’t have to be physically demanding to be effective. This is especially helpful for older, medically frail, or low-energy dogs. Engaging in light (non-strenuous) activities with your pup provides mental exercise that challenges and tires their brain.  

    You can do a few simple things to keep your pet engaged without spending much time. One idea is to periodically rotate their toys. After being stored for a while, each toy will feel new and exciting again. 

    Another fun activity is to stage a scavenger hunt by hiding small treats or toys around the house. This can turn into an enjoyable adventure for both you and your furry friend.

    If the weather permits, consider engaging in “scent walks”. The ratio of a dog’s to a human’s olfactory capabilities is 10,000 to 100, 000 times stronger than a human’s. Dogs use their nose to explore and understand their world. A scent walk differs from regular walks in that the dog is encouraged to use their nose to explore their surroundings at their own pace and direction (on leash, adhering to safety/social limitations, including but not limited to busy streets or the neighbor’s prized garden gnome). 

    Older, smaller, or disabled pooches that are beyond their leisurely strolling days may appreciate car rides around the neighborhood, countryside, or local park.  Even in the years when a dog’s physical abilities fade, their delight and gratification from the sights, sounds, and smells of different environments remain intact. It’s always considered a bonus day if there is a ‘pup-cup’ at the end of the ride.

    Another enjoyable activity (and great photo opportunity) is the classic “bobbing for apples”. Understanding that if you, like me, call Ohio ‘home’ at this time of year, it is very likely frigid in your backyard during the winter. An apple bobbing hack is to set up the fruit-drowning operation in the bathtub/shower.  Grab a large plastic bowl (preferably with a wide base) or a bucket, and place it in the shower or bath. Fill the vessel with cool to lukewarm water, then add the apples (cored and peeled). If preferred, chunks of watermelon, raw carrots, blueberries, cut-up bananas, cucumber slices, strawberries, or other dog-friendly fruits and vegetables can be used. Some vegetation will sink; some will float. Which one does your pup like best? Get your camera ready for some hilarious action. 

    Additional ideas for mental stimulation when you can’t get outside include using slow feeders, frozen treats/Kongs, and puzzle games (See DIY ideas below).

    Higher Energy Activities

    Canine companions with higher physical activity needs may enjoy stair sprints using a laser pointer to chase or a game of Tug-of-War with an old knotted T-shirt. 

    Hunting breeds (Retrievers, Pointers, Spaniels, Hounds, Beagles, etc.) are especially fond of the game of fetch. To play, place a tennis ball in an old sock and toss it down a hallway for retrieval (stairs work well too). 

    Herding breeds (Corgis, Collies, Shepards, Aussies, Sheep Dogs, etc.) may enjoy a herding ball to maneuver about the house. Herding balls come in various sizes and are available in many pet stores or online. 

    Don’t forget you can get involved in the fun too. Remember the game, Hide-and-Seek, from childhood? Guess what, dogs love it as well!! Have someone hold onto your pup in a room while you go and hide. When ready, have your best buddy come ‘find’ you. 

    Tug-of-War can be a fun way to bond, release energy, and satisfy the “prey drive.” That said, if done incorrectly, it could harm their teeth or inadvertently cause behavior problems. Check out https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/is-tug-of-war-bad-for-dogs/ for further information and safe play guidance. 

    Hawk 1

    Not all dogs are inclined to socialize with other dogs, but if your pup is a ‘social butterfly’, consider arranging ‘play-dates’ with other dogs*. Consider the following recommendations for optimal matchmaking when choosing a playmate for your pup. Both dogs should be close in age and size, with similar play styles (e.g., roughhousing vs. gentle play). It is crucial that playdates are supervised at all times. Often, body language is the first clue that things are not going well between “friends,” and it is time to separate to keep everyone safe and happy.

    Knox

    DIY Toys/Puzzles **

    Many dogs enjoy brain teasers, which serve as great distractions, but they can quickly get expensive. Luckily, there are some Do-It-Yourself (DIY) toys and puzzles that are easy to construct with inexpensive materials found around the house. 

    Busy Box: Find a cardboard box and fill it with crumpled up paper, cardboard, paper towel rolls, smaller boxes, clean rags, or other ‘safe’ disposable items that your dog can tear into. Sprinkle some treats (or plain kibble) in the box. Let your dog rummage through the box to find the delectable nibbles. This easy build simulates natural foraging behaviors in the wild.

    Tubular Fun: A quick and easy game starts by placing a few treats inside a toilet paper or paper towel cardboard tube, then folding the ends inwards to close. Allow your pup to figure out how to access the tasty morsels inside.

    ​Simple Snuffle-Mat: Grab an old towel and some treats. To begin, lay the towel on the floor and scatter some treats across it. Then, fold, roll, or knot the towel to contain the treats, creating a challenging puzzle that rewards them for their efforts. This also works well with their kibble to slow down dogs who inhale their meals. Check the internet for images of various towel-folding techniques to increase difficulty. Generally, the looser the roll, and the bigger the treats, the easier the game. To increase the challenge, use smaller treats and a tighter towel wrap. For the super motivated, you can even tie a cord or strip of cloth around the towel roll to add to the excitement. If you are crafty and have some extra time, you can make more elaborate snuffle mats using a rubber pad and a yard of fleece. See the Animal Humane Society web page for directions. https://www.animalhumanesociety.org/resource/how-make-snuffle-mat#:~:text=One%20yard%20of%20fleece%20fabric,at%20least%20two%20different%20colors.) 

    Squeaker Toys: If your dog loves squeaker toys, as my dog does, and you appreciate frugality, then I have four words for you. Dog Toy Squeaker Replacement. Over the years, I have spent unmentionable amounts of money on soft toys (stuffed and unstuffed) for my dogs to joyfully destroy. The torn carcass is usually collateral damage, resulting from the dog’s innate desire to dig out the squeakers while producing that hapless sound associated with a fading wild animal. At last check, one could purchase 50 squeakers online for less than ten dollars. These can be stitched back inside previously ravaged stuffed pet toys for pennies on the dollar. Another option is to throw a couple of squeakers into a partnerless sock and securely tie off the end. If your dog is anything like mine, they likely won’t notice or care that their new ‘squeaky toy’ is missing eyes and fur. If your furry pal prefers the stuffed version of the ‘squeaky toy’, you can purchase a bag of fluff at your local hobby or discount store.

    Crinkly Toys: Create fun and entertaining toys using empty water bottles. Construct a “crinkly” toy using an empty water bottle in an old sock. Another use for discarded water bottles is to create a simple rolling treat dispenser. To craft this, remove the label from the water bottle and discard the cap. Place small treats or kibble inside, then let your pup roll it around the floor to release the treats. Using soft treats makes it easier to adjust their size by cutting them smaller as needed.

    Tug Toy: Craft a quick and easy tug toy using an old T-shirt and a pair of scissors. Begin by cutting off the sleeves. Next, cut the material into strips and braid them together. Tie a knot at each end to prevent unraveling. Enjoy playing tug-of-war or fetch with your furry friend

    Puzzle Toy: Fashion a puzzle using an old muffin tin and a few tennis balls. Place a few small treats in some of the muffin tin holders. Cover treat-filled and empty cup holders with tennis balls. Allow your pooch to sniff out the treats and remove the tennis balls to access a yummy snack. At the beginning, you may want to swap out the tennis balls for something lighter (like wadded-up paper balls) to cover the treats until your pup gets the hang of it.

    Practice Training Commands

    Teaching your pup some tricks is a fun activity that you can both enjoy and offers additional opportunities to exercise their brain. The bonus is that these playful antics can be great for showing off your fantastic pup at your next dinner party!

    Start with simple tricks like sit, down, spin, shake, stay, hand-to-nose targeting, and how to fetch a specific named toy. After accomplishing the basics, you can advance training to include: play dead, spin, balance a treat on their nose, weave between your legs, crawl, back up, bow, or even put their paw over their eyes. 

    Break down the tricks into simple steps and use small, high-value rewards. Keep training sessions short, lasting between 5 and 15 minutes, aiming for once or twice a day, depending on your dog’s attention span. This will help keep your dog happy and engaged. You can find additional resources for DIY trick training online. One option is to hire a professional trainer to help you and your dog start your training journey on the right foot.

    On a side note, dogs are food-motivated to different degrees. Consider yourself lucky if your dog thinks he hit the lotto with a raw carrot.  Some more discerning pups barely raise an eyebrow at a grilled steak with lobster topper. If your furry friend is of the latter orientation, you may need to experiment or get creative with the treats that make your pup pounce.

    Day stays

    Conclusion

    When it’s cold outside and you can’t take your pet out for exercise as often as you’d like, there are still ways to keep them mentally engaged. A range of simple games and high-energy activities, along with toys, can help them release pent-up energy, reduce destructive behaviors, prevent depression, build their confidence, strengthen the bond with your furry companion, and break the tedium of the winter months. 

     

    *For the well-being of your pet, ensure that their play date is free of disease/parasites (i.e., fleas, ticks, worms, skin infections, etc.) and all their vaccines are up to date.

    **Always supervise your pet when using both DIY and commercially available entertainment products.