August 2014
Summer Grooming Tips
Those Adorable, Wrinkly, Smooshed in Faces


I have a weakness.  I absolutely LOVE squishy-faced, wrinkly dogs.  The more snuffly the better.  If your dog can snore while it's wide awake and looking at me, I guarantee that I will fall hopelessly, shamelessly in love with your pet.

One of the best thing about serving the canines at Paragon is that every day brings a new parade of sweet pups to our door.  We see a great variety of breeds and each has special needs and coat types that require attention in a different way.  This month is dedicated the care of flat-faced breeds.  If you have a short-headed, flat-nosed dog (Pug, Bulldog, or ShihTzu), a wrinkly pet (Shar-Pei or Bloodhound), or even a cutie with a corkscrew tail, this issue is for you.  


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Technique Talk - What Do I Use for My
Short-Haired Dog?   
 
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The Rubber Curry
Few tools are as useful for Labs, Pits, and Beagles as the rubber curry.  It can be used for brushing and in the bathtub to help thoroughly work shampoo into the coat.  It loosens the shedding coat and stimulates oil production, making your pet's coat even shinier.

It's also a purrfect way to remove pet hair from your furniture.  Try brushing your couch, chairs, carpet - even your cat condo - as you use your vacuum hose attachment and you'll be amazed at how much fur is removed.  Long-haired dogs and cats should be brushed with a slicker brush (see last month's issue for more information on this topic), but the Rubber Curry is great for cleaning up what they leave behind! 

Refer to page 28 of your copy of Notes From the Grooming Table for more detailed information and illustrations.  If you don't have a copy, or if yours needs replacement, give us a call. 
Tips for Grooming Professionals
Who's Ready for The All American Grooming Show?!

 

 

August 14-17, 2014
Wheeling, IL

 

The world's longest running grooming show. There are programs for anyone interested in improving their knowledge, handling and care of pets. Also, great competitions to challenge you and help hone your skills. So, if you are serious about the pet care industry, you will want to be here.


Ready for a New Career?
Become a Professional Pet Groomer  

 

The Paragon School of Pet Grooming


Fall classes are filling up fast.  Why wait?  Summer classes are available now. 

You could be a professional groomer before the summer is over. Get a jump start on finding your dream job while others are still working towards their diplomas!


Pet Owners - Tips for Keeping Facial Folds
Clean and Healthy
One of the great things about short-haired pets like the Pug and the Bulldog is that they don't have long coats that are prone to matting.  What they do have are wrinkles, called folds, that require care and maintenance.

The heavy jowls and sagging skin that gives them that adorable expression are areas that get warm and moist, making them a perfect target for bacterial growth and infection.  These areas also get deeper as they age, making it even more important to clean them daily.  Use a warm washcloth (do not use shampoo or soap unless advised by your vet) to gently wipe these areas free of debris and saliva.  Be careful around the eyes!  Follow up with a soft towel to make sure they're dry.  If you notice an odor, redness or discoloration, or even hair loss, contact your vet.


We have 5 different kits for a variety of breeds
and coat types to help you learn
to groom your pet at home. 
Call us for details at 616.667.7297




Tips From the Pros
Psst... Want to Know A Secret?    
 
If you wash your dog's bedding, collar, and leash once or twice a year (whether it needs it or not!), you may find that your pet doesn't stay as fresh in between regular grooming appointments.  If your Pug loves to roll around or pounce in the pool, chances are his accessories are paying the price. 

We can wash leashes and collars for you in our Odor Handler shampoo.  You can even keep some on hand at home for:

  • getting that musty smell out of towels.
  • disinfecting the litter box (sprinkle some on the litter, too!).
  • cleaning stinky mop heads.
  • washing dog beds and chew toys.

This stuff is amazing!  If we can use it to remove the smell from an awkward dog-skunk encounter, you can use it to get things squeaky clean around the house!   

 

(BONUS TIP)

Make sure to remove your dog's collar to let the neck area dry and breathe after a swim!  

 

(BONUS BONUS TIP)

Fasten the collar around the agitator during the wash.  Much less noise! 


Quick and Easy Homemade Dog Treats
Frozen Fruit Snacks  

 

Try this quick and easy recipe for a tasty cool down after playtime!

You will need:
 

 

1 cup water
8 strawberries
1/4 cup blueberries

 

Time Required

 

15 minutes + Freeze Time

Instructions

 

Note - Always ensure your pet is not allergic before introducing any new food into their diet. If unsure, call your vet.


http://irresistiblepets.net/2012/08/diy-frozen-star-dog-treats/

 


Shampoos - They're Not All Alike
It's Saturday night and you let Scruffy out once last time before going to bed.  When he comes inside, he is so proud of the stinky mess he found, he rolled around in it to share it with you.  You look at the clock, sigh, and usher him into the tub.

We've all done it.  In times of desperation, we've reached for whatever is handy - if it's sudsy and will de-stink the dog, we'll give it a try.

Remember that when it comes to bathing your dog, use a product designed for pets.  The pH is much different in human shampoo than for a dog and can actually damage your dog's coat.  If your dog has sensitive skin, those added colors, perfumes, and other additives can actually cause major skin issues.  Check with your vet or groomer to find the shampoo that is best for your pet.  Don't forget to rinse...rinse...RINSE, or you will have one itchy dog! 

One last tip - always read the label.  Some shampoos that are good for dogs should never be used on kittens.
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Paragon Hours


Morning Drop off:  7:00 - 8:00
Morning Pick up:  12:30
Afternoon Drop off:  12:00 - 1:00
Afternoon Pick up:  5:30 
 

The Paragon School of Pet Grooming

110 Chicago Drive
Jenison, MI  49428
616.667.7297

Clearance Sale 

$17.00 

 

Save when you order this beautiful bow bundle featuring the best-selling book and DVD from Melissa Verplank.

 

A great looking bow is the perfect finishing touch for pets!  Get yours now while supplies last!

 

Regular Price $51.90 if purchased separately.

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