The Paragon School of Pet Grooming
December/2009
In This Issue
Welcome!
Maintaining a Healthy Coat
Grooming Tips
The Paragon School of Pet Grooming

 The holidays are almost here!  We would love to help your pet look his/her best for your family festivities. 
Call
616.667.7297 today to set up a grooming appointment. Our friendly staff will be happy to help you.  Call soon!  Times and availability will fill up quickly!
Check Out Melissa's Blog!
 
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The Paragon School of Pet Grooming Newsletter
Happy Holidays! 
The staff and students of The Paragon School of Pet Grooming would like to wish all of our human and canine friends and happy and safe holiday season!

Proper Diet and Maintenance Can Keep Your Dog's Coat Healthy and Shiny

 As dog owners, we often determine that it's "that time" to set up a grooming appointment when we notice that Sparky has begun to get a little stinky.  Did you also know that regular grooming and maintenance will greatly reduce the likelihood of mats and tangles in your pet?
Mats can become so tight that they can actually tear the skin and reduce or cut off blood circulation to affected areas. Their skin is no less sensitive than our own-imagine being a prisoner in your own skin within a coat that acts like a straightjacket. So how do you keep the coat healthy and tangle free?  We have some useful tips for you.  

Regular Brushing and Grooming Are Must!
Proper brushing techniques can help keep your pet tangle free.  We'll be happy to show you how!

Visit Your Veterinarian
Just as humans should see their doctors at least once a year for that annual checkup, so should your pet.  Skin problems and hair loss may be caused by a medical condition.  If you notice a change in your dog's coat, call your vet.
 
A Balanced Diet is Essential
Active dogs need about 25% protein in the diet, so if a meat  such as lamb, beef, or chicken is not the first ingredient in your pet's food, you should switch brands.
 
A Healthy Diet Will Have a Direct Impact on Your Dog's Coat
We all love the look and feel of a clean, shiny coat.  If Bailey has lost some of that glow, it may be time to examine her diet.  It's always best to consult your vet before changing her diet, and you should never "self medicate" your pet without proper medical guidance.
 
Important!
· Avoid corn-there's not much nutritional value and it's a common source of food allergies.
· Olive Oil-Good for the coat and nails.  Check with your vet to see how much is appropriate for your dog.
· Avocados and Onions-never give them to your dog!  They are very harmful to their health
Grooming Tips From the Pros! Pearl
 
We all want our dogs to look and smell their best!  Here are a few tips from the pros for maintaining a beautiful and healthy coat.

Make brushing a regular routine.  It helps to keep your dog tangle free, and it's a great way to bond with your pet. 

If you like to bathe your pet at home between grooms, be   generous with the shampoo  and always follow it up with a good quality conditioner.
For more tips, check out Melissa's blog on melissaverplank.com
Cleaning Product Safety

Many of us put a little extra effort into our house keeping chores this time of year. Keeping your home looking its best for friends and family may mean using a few chemical-based products. 
Here are some tips for keeping your pet safe while you put the sparkle in your home.

· It's very dangerous to put cleaning products into food and beverage containers.
· Make sure your products have tight fitting lids to prevent spills or allowing your pet easy access.
· If you throw away the original container, make sure you keep the label in case of emergency.
· Be very cautious when using products with the word "Sol" in them.  These products are particularly harmful to pets.
  
Deal of the Month
  Is this special holiday bundle, you receive:
Notes From the Grooming Table
Notes Pocket Pal
Theory of Five
The AKC All Breed Poster
Whiskers Volume 1 - Bow Making
Laminated Reference Chart
 
PLUS!! FREE DVD - Bathing and Drying Heavy Coated Dogs
 
$179.95


Get a signed copy of "Notes from the Grooming Table", "Theory of Five", or "Notes Pocket Pal" by grooming expert, Melissa Verplank.  Order online at melissaver
plank.com by December 16, 2009 for delivery by December 23.
 
 
We are so grateful for our wonderful clients.  Your continued support has helped our students attain their career goals. Good luck and best wishes for the upcoming year!
 
Sincerely,
 
Your Friends at The Paragon School of Pet Grooming