Summer is a busy time of year for dog stylists and salons will be hiring.  Make sure you are trained and ready when opportunity knocks!

 

 

 

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It's a quiet evening at home.  Dinner is over, dishes are done, and you're just sitting down with that book everyone is raving about when you notice it.  A strong, fishy smell.  Not a nice one, either.  Where is it coming from?  You glance at your dog...

Are you ready for a talk about your dog's anal glands?

Dogs have small sacs around their anus that produce and excrete a very distinctive odor.  Theories about their purpose range from a territory scent marker to a fluid that makes potty breaks a little easier.  With many dogs, the smell is expelled when they are startled, which is why you may notice it when they get spooked by a stranger or a sudden noise.

This is delicate tissue and when it's full or irritated, your pet may nip at the area or scoot along the ground (or carpet - yay for you!) to find relief. 

If you notice that Scooter is scooting, your groomer may be able to help.  Groomers may be able express the sacs externally, but if the area is inflamed or needs a medical professional, responsible groomers will refer you to your family vet to take care of the issue safely.

People love their pets and will do just about anything to keep them safe and happy.  Sometimes what we consider to be typical human behavior can be uncomfortable for dogs.  There are times when the things we do are not only unnerving for a pet - they can be potentially dangerous.

We teach our students about canine psychology and behavior right from the start.  Teaching grooming techniques to a student who doesn't yet understand canine body language is unsafe.  At some point, either the human or pet will get hurt.


Lack of boundaries
Dogs need structure.  When rules are in place and consistently enforced, both you and your pet can relax.

Face time
As humans, we think that getting up close and personal while looking deeply into each others' eye is how to show affection.  Dogs may read this as aggression and can respond - with teeth - accordingly.  Keep your hands and face away... and teach your children to respect their space.

Hugging and pulling
We often think it's cute when small kids toddle up to a resting pet and either lavish them with loving hugs or tug on their hair.  Some dogs are very patient about this invasion of space.  Some tolerate it, some get up and move away, while others will reject the attention with a nip or bite.  Prevent unnecessary injuries and help kids understand about appropriate attention to the family pet.

Clutching
Speaking of hugs, did you know that if you are nervous and clutch your pet close to you, you are transferring your fear to your pet?  Rather than providing comfort, you are teaching your pet to be fearful of a situation.  Breathe and relax - you'll find that your dog will respond by relaxing, too.