The FURminator & how it works

The FURminator is a wonderful system that I use in my grooming
business. I first learned about it back in 2004 during Groom Expo, which is a annual event where groomers from all over the world join to learn from top groomers in the field. This system is a three step procedure to rid the seeming endless shedding of hair. You know, those pesky hairs that were once part of your dog and now are making their home in the fibers of your couch and clothing. Well, now you can add this service to your dogs regular grooming and see less fur flying around your house. The FURminator shed-less treatment

Puppy Grooming

When grooming a puppy for the first couple times, I try to keep the sessions short and fun. This helps introduce her to the grooming experience. The bathe, the hair drying, the nail trimming, the brushing and so on.

This is little Rosie, she is a silver miniature poodle. Rosie, did so good on her third visit that I actually did a modified lamb clip on her. She is a sweet little girl that in time will be a real show stopper.

Owners are encouraged to establish a weekly routine so the puppy comes to expect grooming at a certain time. Teach your puppy to open her mouth so you can take a good look at the teeth and praise your pup when she complies. When your puppy is relaxed and tired, play with her feet and ears so she will learn to expect to be handled and this will become pleasurable for her. Gently brush out the hair and use a comb to make sure you are getting down to the skin. This extra effort on your part helps to make a better dog for grooming, thus making her grooming time a real treat.

Nail Care

Hair and Nails grow at different rates.

Many dogs such as Poodles, Maltese and Yorkies visit me regularly for haircuts and of course nails are trimmed then. While most dogs get their hair cut about every 5-6 weeks, most nails need to be trimmed every 2 to 4 weeks. If you can hear your dog's nails clicking when she walks, this means the nails are pushing against the feet, which can hurt. When nails get too long, it can create permanent damage to legs and can cause back pain. It is very important to get the nails trimmed regularly. How often depends on how much your dog walks on hard surfaces such as sidewalks that causes the nails to wear down and how fast his nails happen to grow. For some dogs, that might be as little as once a month; for others, trimming is required more frequently. Just remember, If you hear the dog's nails clicking as he walks, the nail are too long.

New Dog breeds Not recognized by the AKC, CKC or any other KC

Bloodhound + Labrador: Blabador, a dog that barks incessantly.
Collie + Malamute: Commute, a dog that travels to work.
Collie + Lhasa Apso: Collapso, a dog that folds up for easy transport.
Deerhound + Terrier: Derriere, a dog that's true to the end.
Great Pyrenees + Dachshund: Pyradachs, a puzzling breed.
Irish Water Spaniel + English Springer Spaniel: Irish Springer, a dog fresh and clean as a whistle.
Labrador Retriever + Curly Coated Retriever: Lab Coat Retriever, the choice of research scientists everywhere.
Newfoundland + Basset Hound: Newfound Asset Hound, a dog for financial advisers.
Pekingnese + Lhasa Apso: Pekasso, an abstract dog.
Pointer + Setter: Poinsetter, a traditional Christmas pet.
Spitz + Chow Chow: Spitz-Chow, a dog that throws up a lot.
Terrier + Bulldog: Terribull, a dog that makes awful mistakes.

Rainy day in Northeast Ohio

With days like this, we all need a little
rain protection. Normally here in Northeast Ohio in February, we should expect to have snow and LOTS of it. It has been raining cats and dogs all day and night. It times like these that makes me glad that I'm a groomer. "In the tub you go, oh you muddy dogs".

Is your dog trying to tell you something?

Dogs may be at risk for joint, heart and breathing problems.

This February is the first ever National Canine Weight Check. Veterinarians estimate that nearly half of all dogs in the United States are overweight or obese. These conditions can have serious medical consequences, including arthritis, breathing problems and heart disease. Is your dog at risk? Veterinarians across the county have teamed up to help you determine whether your dog needs to be put on a weight loss diet. Just take your dog to a participating veterinary office for a free weight assessment.

For more information or to find a participating veterinarian near you, go to www.CanineWeightCheck.com

If your dog's weight is a concern, consider the nutritious, low-fat

Life's Abundance Weight-Loss Formula. Like all HealthyPetNet products, this food contains no artificial flavors, colors, sugars or chemical preservatives. Your dogs can reach their optimal weight without compromising the great taste and balanced nutrition they deserve!