Preparing for your pup’s spa day
From first-time puppies to lifelong clients, preparing for your dog’s grooming experience is essential for fostering a positive relationship with grooming. Firstly, it is normal for your dog to feel nervous upon arrival. The scents of previous dogs can be overwhelming, making your pup think, “Wait a minute, this is for me?” To ease their anxiety, start by familiarizing your dog with the grooming environment before their appointment. Consider visiting the our salon for to allow your dog to explore the space while remaining calm. Reward them with treats or praise to create positive associations. Additionally, establish a grooming routine at home, introducing basic practices such as brushing or bathing in a comfortable environment. The more familiar your dog is with grooming tools and techniques, the more at ease they will feel during professional sessions. Lastly, communicate with your stylist about any specific concerns or behaviors your dog exhibits. As dedicated and experienced professionals, we can implement strategies tailored to your dog’s needs, ensuring a smoother grooming process and laying the groundwork for a trusting relationship in the future.
Before your arrival
Knowing that your pup will be treated with our luxurious spa, a good amount of exercise beforehand helps enhance their overall experience. The most important activity to do before coming in is a long, quality walk that allows them plenty of opportunities to move about and relieve themselves. If you plan to potty them upon arrival, please ensure that you arrive early with sufficient time to do so before your scheduled appointment. It is not our responsibility to take your pup potty, and given they will be with us for a few hours, don’t make them wait for pick-up to do their business. This consideration not only makes them more comfortable during their time with us at Le Pawsh, but it also helps reduce the number of accidents we handle daily. Sometimes it’s a stray pee in the corner, and sometimes it’s a smeared accident with footprints leading to the culprit. For their sake and ours, please don’t make them wait.
Drop-off
It is completely normal for some dogs to appear anxious upon entering a new environment. Your pup may be overwhelmed by the array of scents left by previous visitors, leading them to think, "Wait a minute, this is for me?" When you hand over your beloved furry friend, it is important to avoid excessive comforting, as this can inadvertently reinforce their anxious behaviors. Although it may be challenging, providing gentle encouragement for them to accompany us, coupled with a brief farewell, is the most effective approach. Rest assured, you will soon be reunited, and your dog will look and feel rejuvenated. In cases of pronounced anxiety during departures, this may indicate separation anxiety, which can be exacerbated by excessive reassurance.
Looking for an activity to pass the time? We’ve got you covered!
Location
Puppies
To puppies, everything is new and exciting, but can be big and overwhelming. Puppies spend the first year of their life building relationships with the experiences of their new day-to-day. We at Le Pawsh wish to foster the happiest feelings with grooming possible, to make certain that they have a calmer experience. Those who book our Bath & Haircut for their puppy’s first visit will most likely receive our Bath & Tidy service. This “introductory groom,” means their little nails are trimmed, a bath, some light scissor work, and a ton of kisses. We take our time with every step to build a confident foundational relationship with grooming as they come back into and throughout adulthood.
Training
All dogs should be trained by a professional. Conditioning your pup to associate certain things with good feelings is a standard dog training technique. Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool, rewarding desired behaviors with treats, praise, or playtime. Consistency is key; ensure that everyone in the household is on the same page regarding commands and training techniques. Exposing your dog to different environments, people, and other animals can help them develop confidence and reduce anxiety. Puppy classes, dog parks, or controlled playdates are excellent opportunities for socialization. Engaging in regular mental and physical exercise is also important. Activities like agility training, interactive toys, or scent games can keep your dog mentally stimulated and reduce behavioral issues. Lastly, don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed. A qualified dog trainer can provide personalized strategies and guidance to address specific challenges, ensuring a well-rounded approach to your pup's training journey.
For holistic and comprehensive training, we recommend:
Dyad Dog Training
Crate Conditioning
Crate conditioning is an important aspect of dog training that benefits both the pet and the owner. Many owners mistakenly view crates as a form of punishment; however, a crate can serve as a dog's safe haven, reminiscent of a child's private room. It provides a designated space where dogs can retreat to relax and feel secure, promoting a sense of comfort for them and peace of mind for their owners. While a free-roaming environment is ideal, there are situations where crating becomes necessary. For instance, within a busy grooming facility like Le Pawsh, a dog may need to be placed in a kennel to manage interactions safely, address reactive behaviors, or simply give them time to rest amid the grooming process. Proper conditioning to accept crating can significantly enhance a dog’s experience in these scenarios. Additionally, crate training prepares dogs for other situations outside the home, such as visits to the veterinarian, boarding facilities, or unexpected encounters with animal control. Establishing crate training as a routine practice not only helps ensure the dog's comfort in these circumstances but also contributes to their overall well-being.
Mind the Heat
We understand that having to forgo a cool red carpet from our establishment to your vehicle may be disappointing. However, it is essential to prioritize your dog's safety during warmer months. Asphalt can become extremely hot, potentially posing a risk to your pet's paws, as most dogs do not wear protective footwear. The American Kennel Club suggests that the optimal temperature for most dogs is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. In contrast, when the outside temperature reaches 86 degrees, the asphalt can heat up to as much as 135 degrees. It’s worth noting that alternatives such as grey concrete sidewalks are generally safer for dogs to walk on in hot weather. We encourage pet owners to use our parking spot or pull up to the curb for picking up or dropping off their furry companions, or to carry their dogs from the vehicle to our salon. This precaution is applicable beyond just grooming visits. Always bear in mind the external temperature and its effect on ground surfaces throughout your dog's life. A simple test to assess the safety of the ground temperature is to place your hand on the surface for about 10 seconds. If it feels uncomfortable for you, it is likely unsafe for your pet.
If you’re unsure of anything, we would love to help. We’ve consolidated a list of our FAQs, for your convenience.
