Dog Groomers For Difficult Dogs Near Me? The 98 Correct Answer

Ferris is a long haired dachshund who hates being groomed. In the past, his hair was pulled and his nails were cut too short. He used to take grooming better when he was younger, but now he’s old and grumpy, he doesn’t want to be groomed and he’s not afraid to make it clear. Ferris has learned that growling and snapping at people grooming him, both at home and at grooming salons, will often stop the handler from doing what they are doing, and in some cases even end the grooming session. Victory for Ferris!

If you have a dog that becomes aggressive when groomed due to fear or aggressive tendencies, you and all professional groomers who work with your dog need to know how to handle and groom an aggressive dog. Using the right tools and techniques makes grooming an aggressive dog safer for everyone involved. Even better are techniques that counteract aggressive tendencies and lead to different behaviors than your dog, making future grooming sessions easier and more enjoyable.

Your four-legged companion requires a lot of grooming to lead a safe, healthy life, including regular bathing and grooming. Some dog owners in California turn to professional groomers to do this job and make their lives easier. However, things can get very complicated if your dog bites a groomer during the process.

You may be wondering if a dog groomer in California can sue you if your dog bites him? The short answer is: sometimes. You can see the long answer as well as California dog bite laws here at the Simmrin Law Group. You can also speak directly to a legal expert by calling us at (310) 997-4688.

Liability and dog bites in California

In the state of California, a dog owner is liable for most injuries caused by their pet. Strict liability means that if your dog bites someone, you will almost always be held responsible. This liability applies even if your dog has never been violent and even if your dog is not a “dangerous” breed.

You may be charged under California Civil Code 3342 if:

You own a dog and

Your dog bit another person in a public place OR

Your dog bit someone else while they were legally on private property AND

The victim was injured by the dog bite

A Los Angeles criminal defense attorney can help you if your dog is accused of biting someone else. The Simmrin Law Group team can even help when a groomer claims your dog bit him at work.

For free legal advice, call (310) 928-9347

Exceptions to California Civil Code 3342

As you can see, in California most dog bites are blamed on the owner of a dog. However, there are some important exceptions to Civil Code 3342. Many of these exceptions are related to the “Vet Rule”.

California’s Veterinarian’s Rule states that some professionals take a certain risk when they choose to work with dogs. Handling dogs is considered a risky activity in California. Therefore, people who choose this job voluntarily take this risk when they work.

Note that the “vet rule” doesn’t just apply to vets. In fact, you may not be liable for damages if your dog has bitten:

Veterinary Technician

dog walker

dog trainer

dog groomer

This means that a dog groomer in California may not be able to sue you if your dog bites him. By volunteering to work with canines, groomers accept the risk of being bitten. Call (310) 997-4688 to learn more about the “vet rule.”

The “vet rule” doesn’t always apply

The “vet rule” means that in many cases you won’t be held liable if your dog bites a groomer. However, this is not always the case. In fact, you can still be forced to pay compensation if:

You knew or suspected your dog was aggressive AND

You didn’t warn the groomer that your dog is dangerous

You are not protected by the “vet rule” if your dog has a history of biting people. This means that in some situations you could be sued by a California groomer. Make sure you thoroughly educate everyone about the risks of working with your dog.

Click here to contact our criminal defense attorneys today

Results of a dog bite case in California

A groomer may try to sue you for compensation for their medical bills after a dog bite. As previously mentioned, you may not be liable for a groomer’s injuries if your dog has not shown a history of aggressive behavior.

Note that you may not have to fully compensate a groomer after a dog bite, even if you knew your dog was aggressive. California uses comparative debt statutes to settle dog bite cases. This means that you may not be fully liable if the groomer did something to provoke your dog.

If your dog was injured, hit or molested by the groomer before the bite, you may not have to pay full compensation. Get specific help in managing your unique situation by contacting the Simmrin Law Group now.

Complete a free case evaluation form now

Talk to an attorney if your dog bites a groomer in California

A groomer in California can sue you if your dog bites him, but only in certain circumstances. If your dog has not shown any aggressive behavior in the past, you could be safe from legal action by a groomer. Learn more by contacting the Simmrin Law Group. Simply fill out our online contact form or call (310) 997-4688.

Learn more about dog bite cases with a FREE case assessment.

Call or text (310) 928-9347 or fill out a free case evaluation form

Hi 🙂 I have a very bad time with any type of grooming that requires pressure or restraint (i.e. holding her paw to pinch it between her footpads, or clipping her nails, or holding her face still to trim, etc.). . Whenever I don’t let go of her when she tries to pull away, she PATCHES. OUT.

She starts jerking and jerking and tossing and eventually gets so agitated that she hyperventilates. I have done “desensitization work” and given many rewards, but she is so excited that she is not interested in any food. She really is not an overall food motivated dog. She loves to play and is not aggressive. But when she gets like that, she tries to bite… I would describe the attitude less as aggressive and more intensely excited.

I just don’t know what to do. I’ve never had a dog behave like this and I just can’t NOT do this stuff because it will get out of control and end up being worse for both of us….

HELP. 😅

Dog fear is widespread. It can prevent your dog from enjoying normal canine activities…like walking around the neighborhood. So it’s important to find a way to help her relax and have fun!

While some veterinarians will prescribe pharmaceutical medications for your dog, they may not be the best choice. Anti-anxiety medications can have some pretty bad side effects (read about them). Fortunately, there are many remedies that naturally calm dogs down.

First of all, some background information on fear of dogs.

Common types of anxiety in dogs

There are 2 types of dog anxiety… behavioral and situational.

1. Behavioral Anxiety

Behavioral anxiety is when your dog is constantly afraid of something.

Separation anxiety is a perfect example. It is the most common fear in dogs. Some experts estimate that around 14% of dogs suffer from it. These dogs are afraid of being home alone or separated from you in any way. You show signs of stress when you pick up your keys or when you leave the house.

But separation anxiety is just one example… there are many other causes of behavioral anxiety, including:

past trauma

abuse

New home

loss of a loved one

2. Situational Anxiety

Situational anxiety is when your dog is afraid of something specific. Common triggers of situational anxiety in dogs include:

Storms, fireworks, or other loud noises

car rides

Go to the vet or groomer

Many dogs also suffer from chronic anxiety or anxiety as a side effect of over-vaccination, particularly rabies. If you think this is the case with your dog, it is best to consult a homeopathic veterinarian to treat his condition. Find one at theavh.org. Most conduct telephone consultations.

Anxiety can also show up or worsen as your dog ages. This is usually associated with cognitive dysfunction and disorders.

Signs of anxiety in dogs

Sometimes it’s easy to tell when your dog is anxious. In other cases, you may need to be extra careful. These are some of the most common signs of dog anxiety:

Chewing or destructive behavior

barking or crying

restlessness, pace

Excessive licking

aggression

Loss of appetite, refusal to eat

tremors or tremors

Excessive panting

What are conventional treatments for dog anxiety?

If you ask your vet about treating dog anxiety, chances are you’ll pick up a bottle of anti-anxiety medication for your dog. These include drugs like Valium, Xanax, ProZac, Paxil, or Lorazepam. You may have even heard of them…many are human drugs.

Most dogs will need to take these medications for several weeks before a change occurs. But this does not mean that the treatment stops afterwards. Some dogs may eventually stop taking them, others will require lifelong treatment.

And these drugs come with a long list of undesirable side effects, including…

Side Effects of Conventional Treatment Increased or decreased appetite

lethargy and/or drowsiness

Affected learning and memory

Increased urination

Stomach upset, diarrhea, vomiting

Increased aggression and anxiety

damage to the liver

seizures

insomnia

Skin Conditions Some of these drugs can cause withdrawal symptoms if used long term and stopped too quickly. But there are many natural solutions.

Natural Remedies for Dog Anxiety

Before we talk about remedies, here are some ways you can help your dog with his anxiety in the long term.

Training tips for dog anxiety

If your dog is anxious, you can try to distract him or help him get out of the situation. Give your dog a treat or toy, ask him for tricks, pet him, or take him to a safe place. Soothing music and weighted blankets can also help.

In the long term, you can try to desensitize your dog to the stressor. For example, if your dog has separation anxiety, practice the activities you normally do before you leave… but don’t walk. Pick up and put away your keys or coat. When you go, be matter-of-fact and don’t worry about saying goodbye to your dog. Say hello to them calmly and without fuss when you get back home. You can also practice with short absences and slowly increase the absences. This will help her get used to you coming and going.

Another option is counterconditioning. To do this, you want to teach your dog to associate their triggers with something good. For example, if your dog is afraid of loud noises and something goes off, treat and pet them. This will help her associate loud noises with a good feeling. When you use desensitization and counterconditioning together, they can be even more effective.

There are also several alternative means of naturally calming dogs to relieve their anxiety. Here are 6 of our favorites.

#1 CBD Oil

The use of CBD oil for dogs is exploding due to its many benefits. It helps with pain management, seizures… and even cancer. And CBD oil also shows great results in managing dog anxiety.

How does CBD oil work?

It’s all about the endocannabinoid system. The body has cannabinoid receptors throughout the central nervous system. Your dog’s body releases endocannabinoid chemicals on its own. These connect to the receptors that stimulate your natural ability to produce serotonin. Serotonin is a natural mood stabilizer.

Research shows that CBD increases this ability. It interacts with the nervous system to ease and calm your dog’s anxiety.

CBD is great for dogs with situational anxiety as it works fairly quickly. If a storm is coming or you are driving your car, give your dog CBD oil 30-60 minutes beforehand. This will help her calm down and stay relaxed.

To give it to your dog, follow the dosage directions on the bottle. You can add it to your dog’s food or put it directly in his mouth.

DNM RECOMMENDS: Four Leaf Rover offers full-spectrum CBD oil for dogs. This organic hemp oil contains a wide range of cannabinoids that help calm your dog. Buy Full Spectrum CBD Oil Now >>

RELATED: How to Pick the Best CBD Oil for Dogs…

#2 herbs

There are several herbs that can help relieve your dog’s anxiety.

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L) – There’s a reason people drink chamomile tea before bed…it’s a gentle herb with calming effects. It can help your dog relax and settle his stomach when he’s nervous. Use it when your dog gets nervous in the car and gets motion sickness.

Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) – Valerian is the best-known herbal tranquilizer. It is safe and gentle and calms the nerves. It also promotes physical relaxation. Use during stressful events or when your dog becomes hysterical or overexcited.

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) – St. John’s Wort is a safe, effective alternative to antidepressants. Use for dogs with anxiety or separation anxiety (thunderstorms or fireworks).

You can use these herbs in various forms – as a tea, tincture or in capsules.

Tea When brewing tea, pour it over your dog’s food or into his water. 1 to 20 lbs…1/4 cup, 1-3 times per day

20 to 50 lbs… 1/4 – 1/2 cup, 1-3 times a day

50 to 100 lbs… 1 cup, 1-3 times a day

Tincture When using a tincture, add it to water or food, or put it directly in the mouth. 1 to 20 lbs… 1-4 drops, 2-3 times daily

20 to 50 lbs…5-10 drops, 2-3 times daily

50 to 100 lbs…10-20 drops, 2-3 times daily

Capsule If you are giving your dog a capsule, open it and add it to your dog’s food. You can also put it in a piece of meat, cheese or banana and give it to your dog like that. 1 to 20 lbs… 1/2 – 1 capsule, 1-3 times daily

20 to 50 lbs…1 or 2 capsules, 2-3 times daily

50 to 100 lbs…1 or 2 capsules, 3-4 times daily

#3 Homeopathic remedies

Homeopathic remedies are effective because they are chosen to suit specific symptoms. They are also very safe.

To give these remedies, mix 3 of the small beads in a glass of filtered water (try not to touch them with your hands). Mix them together with a spoon and apply some of the liquid to your dog’s gums with a teaspoon or a clean dropper.

Determine what’s causing the anxiety and use one of these remedies for quick relief. In general, you should start with 3 doses 12 hours apart, then stop and wait for changes before dosing again.

Aconitum 30C Aconitum is a good remedy to start with. It generally helps with anxiety and can be given every 15 minutes during a storm. Just continue until you see improvement. If you don’t see improvement, try another remedy.

Phosphorus 30C Phosphorus is good for all noise phobias. You can give it once or twice a day.

Pulsatilla 6C or 30C This is a good remedy for dogs with separation anxiety.

Borax 6C Borax is specific for fear of thunderstorms and you can give it twice a day.

Gelsemium 6C or 30C Gelsemium is often used to treat separation anxiety. It can even lead to diarrhea or involuntary urination when a dog is under extreme stress that needs this remedy. RELATED: What you need to know about homeopathy for dogs…

#4 Bach flower essences

About 75 years ago, the English doctor Edward Bach found that the essence of certain flowers helps restore emotional balance. This makes them perfect for relieving stress and calming an anxious dog. (It’s also good for your own stress).

These remedies are gentle, non-toxic, and your dog cannot overdose on them. You can use individual essences that suit your dog’s specific fears and anxieties, or you can use the well-known Rescue Remedy blend. It is available at most health food stores.

Rescue Remedy is a pre-made blend of Bach Flowers:

Star of Bethlehem

rock rose

cherry plum

Impatient

clematis

It can help in all sorts of stressful situations. Use it to relieve stress before going to the vet or hairdresser. It’s also good for separation anxiety or situations that you know cause anxiety.

RELATED: Read more about flower remedies for dogs…

#5 Essential Oils

Essential oils like lavender and violet leaf are great for calming your dog’s anxiety. You can also try blending oils. These blends come from aromatherapist Joy Musacchio:

Separation Anxiety: Neroli, Violet Leaf, Vetiver, Lavender, Rose Hydrolate. Fear of Thunder and Fireworks: Frankincense, Rose Otto, Hops and Cornflower Hydrolate. General Anxiety: Frankincense, Violet Leaf, Lime Blossom, Roman Chamomile, Hemp.

For each recipe, mix 5 drops of each oil in 2-3 ounces of a carrier oil such as almond oil or apricot kernel oil.

Spray the diluted oil on your dog’s bed or blanket, or in the air. You can also use a diffuser, but make sure your dog can leave the room if the oils make him uncomfortable.

Cautions: Never let your dog swallow essential oils. Never use undiluted essential oils on your dog.

Essential oils are very powerful for dogs, so hydrolates can be a much gentler option. Hydrosols are leftovers from the essential oil manufacturing process. They are far less concentrated than the essential oils and are considered safer for dogs.

From canine herbalist Rita Hogan, this calming spray is great for general anxiety. The chamomile and lavender hydrolates it contains calm and soothe your dog.

ingredients

½ oz Neroli (Citrus aurantium) hydrolate

½ oz Blue Chamomile Hydrosol (Matricaria recutita).

5 drops of lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia).

Mix the ingredients together in a spray bottle. Shake before use and spray your dog. Store in the refrigerator for up to six months.

Anxiety can affect your dog’s (and your own) quality of life. But these natural solutions can help her get some relief.

Dogs get just as anxious as humans. Because they don’t have the same ability to perceive actual threats as humans, they can mistakenly believe that the slightest action would harm them.

For example, grooming, whether at home or at the groomer’s, can trigger an anxiety attack in a dog. Although behavior modification can be helpful, some dogs require sedation for home grooming sessions.

When do dogs need sedation?

Many dogs live their entire lives without sedation, while others are naturally anxious and often require sedation. The following are some of the dog breeds that are more prone to anxiety during grooming.

border collie

German shepherd dog

Cocker spaniel

basset hound

chihuahua

If a dog is overly anxious, they will not allow their owner to groom them effectively. Your dog may be showing increasing signs of stress.

Many dogs experience brief bursts of intense anxiety during grooming, especially when clipping their toenails. You need to understand the signs of anxiety so you know when to sedate your dog.

How do I know if my dog ​​is anxious?

Whether you’re grooming at home or taking your dog to a professional, it’s important to recognize the signs of anxiety. If you notice any of the following signs, do not continue with the grooming session. Instead, contact your veterinarian or a canine behavior specialist for advice.

Your dog’s ears can be pulled back.

Dogs can try to escape. If the dog is having a full-blown panic attack, it can injure itself.

The dog may try to crouch or ball up and appear as small as possible.

Anxious or fearful dogs will tuck their tails between their legs.

If your dog’s eyes are fully open and more white than usual is visible, it means he’s stressed.

Dogs will pant uncontrollably when they are anxious.

Some dogs will start shaking violently while frightened.

A dog under extreme stress may have a bathroom accident.

Dogs sometimes snap, growl, or bite when overly frightened.

Your dog may suddenly start showing his teeth as a sign of aggression.

Oftentimes, dogs will tighten their muscles tightly when they are anxious or anxious.

Is It Safe to Sedate Your Dog at Home?

Seducing a dog means calming it down enough to do grooming tasks at home. Some people mistakenly believe that sedation means strict administration of drugs. While this is a method many owners use, it’s not the only one.

Sedation is safe when used under the guidance of a veterinarian. A veterinarian will assist you in making sure you are taking the right measures. Medical sedation should only be used when other methods of behavior modification have failed.

Consider the following steps to calm your dog down for grooming at home.

fun playtime

Ample playtime can tire your dog and make him more relaxed. Many vets recommend their owners to take their dogs for fetch or other fun activities.

Throwing a frisbee or ball at your dog will force him to do lots of exercise while having lots of fun. Your dog will love the interaction. Just like humans, dogs get tired after intense training sessions.

Relaxation during a care session is essential. By tiring your dog out with fun play, he’ll be much calmer when you’re trying to groom him.

If you are at home, wait until your dog is ready to relax or go to sleep, and then try grooming him gently. This calming technique may not work for all dogs and may require consistent work on your part.

Gentle touch & massage

Dogs love attention from their owners. They like being touched. Gently petting your dog will help reduce their stress levels and make them calmer.

When grooming your dog, be sure to touch them gently as often as possible. If your dog seems upset about the grooming process, take a break and offer them pets. Use a soothing voice when speaking to your dog while grooming him.

Rubbing your dog’s outer ears is a great way to calm him down. Studies have shown that rubbing a dog’s ears releases feel-good endorphins throughout the body. Your dog will immediately feel much calmer and may even become sleepy. Soothing your dog is an essential part of grooming.

Take your dog for a long walk

Before you start grooming your dog, he needs to be in a relaxed state. A natural way to calm your dog down is to take them for a long walk before grooming.

A long walk will make a dog tired, especially if you walk at a brisk pace. Most dogs are happy to come home for a nap after a long walk.

If your dog naturally gets tired after a walk, try to do the necessary grooming when you get home. Your dog’s body will be full of endorphins from exercise, so he’s more likely to remain calm while you groom.

Try aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is beneficial for both humans and dogs. Using essential oils, which are good for your dog’s skin and known to provide relaxation, will provide a calming atmosphere before and during grooming.

Don’t forget to massage the oils into your dog’s skin. The massaging effect will help to further soothe your furry friend and cause him to relax deeply.

Once you see signs of relaxation, you can gently perform any grooming tasks, such as: B. trimming your dog’s hair or even using dog nail grinders. Lavender is one of the most calming essential oils for dogs.

Use medication to safely sedate your dog

Despite carefully training your dog and using other methods of reassurance, your dog may remain anxious during home grooming sessions. Are medications an option?

Before delving too deeply into this method, it’s important to understand that giving medication to your dog without your vet’s guidance can be dangerous. Sedatives can be safe for dogs as long as they are administered under the direction of a veterinarian. One of the greatest dangers of drug sedation is overdose.

The two most popular vet-prescribed tranquilizers for dogs are acepromazine and diazepam [1]. These are available to pets by prescription only. Your veterinarian will determine the right dosage based on your dog’s weight.

If you use tranquilizers to groom your dog at home, don’t use more than the veterinarian recommends. Too much can cause side effects in your dog, including difficulty breathing.

Your dog should not be rendered unconscious with medical sedation. The dog should be sleepy but not completely unconscious.

After your dog has been groomed, it’s a good idea to let him sleep off the medication while safely snuggled in a crate.

Your vet will only prescribe a light dose of sedative for your dog, which should only make your pup drowsy for about an hour or two. After administering the sedative, do not walk your dog or expect him to perform. Allowing your dog to sleep soundly is the surest way to ensure the medication wears off.

Seducing a dog is often a trial and error process

Not all approaches to sedation work for all dogs. It’s often a trial and error process. You should start with no-medication trials and see how your dog is doing. Some owners combine several methods, e.g. B. walking their dog, followed by an aromatherapy massage. Below are some additional tips that you will find useful when tranquilizing your dog with medication.

Vets often recommend a trial run on a tranquilizer. If you plan to use a prescription-strength grooming tranquilizer, give the dog the medication first and just watch how it affects him. If you have any concerns, report them to your vet immediately. Dogs that have been sedated may have trouble maintaining their body temperature. Reduced blood flow, along with drowsiness, could make your dog more prone to accidents. Let your furry friend sleep in one of the most comfortable dog sleeping positions while the medication is draining from their system. Don’t be alarmed if your dog’s veterinarian recommends combining two canine tranquilizers. For some dogs, combining two sedatives helps provide more effective sedation without as many side effects. Some medications are not safe to combine, so always follow your veterinarian’s directions for dosing. Your vet will likely require that your dog undergo a health evaluation before prescribing tranquilizers. Some types of anxiety symptoms can be caused by health problems.

The dos & don’ts of sedation for your dog

In addition to the information above, there are some do’s and don’ts that should always be followed when it comes to sedating your dog. Before you give a dog medication and clip their nails, here are a few things to keep in mind.

DOS

Never attempt to groom your dog unless he is relaxed. A relaxed state puts your dog in a better mental state.

Be sure to use pleasant sounds and a soft voice when speaking to your dog during the grooming session.

Always use a gentle touch when trying to keep your dog calm, with or without sedation.

Try to introduce grooming products as early as possible in a dog’s life. Introducing grooming during the puppy stage will help your dog adjust better.

Stay alert and careful when grooming your dog. Practice all safety steps.

Make sure to always be patient. Remember that your dog may not be able to mentally process things the way you can.

nothing

Don’t attempt to groom your dog without exercise. Use practice sessions to get your dog used to the tools and actions.

Don’t yell at your dog!

Do not use scissors around your dog’s eyes or mouth.

Do not give your dog treats while he is sedated as this can pose a choking hazard.

Don’t rush the grooming process. Give yourself plenty of time.

Don’t give up if a calming method doesn’t work right away.

Frequently asked questions about sedating your dog for home care

Sedation is a daunting topic for many dog ​​owners. If your dog shows signs of anxiety while being groomed, it may help to ask your vet about sedation. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about dog sedation.

How much Benadryl can I give my dog ​​to calm down?

Many dog ​​owners use Benadryl (diphenhydramine) to calm their dogs for grooming or when traveling. Benadryl is not a sedative but is used to treat allergies. It has sedating side effects. Most vets recommend giving a dog 1 mg per pound of body weight. Check with your veterinarian for the correct dose.

How can I safely sedate my dog ​​for grooming?

Most dog owners are concerned about dog sedation because they fear it is unsafe. If you follow your vet’s advice, sedation is safe. Never mix medications or attempt to give a dog a tranquilizer that has not been discussed with your veterinarian. Supervise your dog and never leave him alone while he is sedated.

How much Benadryl can I give my dog ​​before grooming?

The amount of Benadryl for dogs varies based on weight [2]. Most vets recommend 1 mg per pound of body weight. Although Benadryl is an over-the-counter medication, you should never give it to your dog without a veterinarian’s approval.

Can I give my dog ​​Benadryl for grooming to calm him down?

It is generally considered safe to give your dog Benadryl before grooming, but there are some words of caution. Benadryl, especially when given in too high a dose, can cause dry mouth, lethargy, and even vomiting. Only give this medication with your veterinarian’s approval.

Talk to your vet today

Concerned about your dog’s anxiety when trying to groom themselves at home? If so, you are certainly not alone. Talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s anxiety symptoms today. Your vet will likely offer you some of the above information to safely sedate your dog during grooming.

Kate Cummings, DVM, DACVAA

www.angell.org/anaesthetic

[email protected]

617-541-5048

Aggressive and/or fearful dogs present several challenges to the small animal practitioner. These patients are difficult to fully assess and pose a safety hazard to clinicians, veterinarians, and sometimes even the owner. In addition, a nervous dog contributes to increased workplace stress, which affects not only humans but other pets as well. For dogs that are known to be aggressive in the hospital setting, or those with excessive anxiety/anxiousness that make physical examinations and basic assessment impossible, pre-hospital sedation can greatly improve the experience for everyone involved in the care of that patient.

Before considering preclinical tranquilizers, it is imperative that the prescribing veterinarian have a reasonable knowledge of the dog’s medical condition and understand when a medication is contraindicated.1 A complete physical examination should be performed before prescribing any of the recommended medications. Additionally, any go-home medication should be discussed with the owner in terms of patient risks and what to expect at home. The therapies presented in this brief article, acepromazine, gabapentin, trazadone, and melatonin, are intended to complement low-stress management (e.g., animals) within the clinical setting to make a patient more amenable to the management.

Acepromazine is part of the phenothiazine class of tranquilizers and is widely used in veterinary medicine, especially during the perianesthetic phase. Acepromazine elicits behavior modifying effects primarily through drug binding and dopamine receptor blockade in the basal ganglia and limbic system.2,3 The drug exists in two forms for veterinary use – oral and injectable – and while the oral formulation has historical use in treatment when used for domestic anxieties (e.g. thunderstorms, fireworks, etc.) it can be unreliable in terms of the desired sedative effect and the onset/duration is often variable. However, the injectable form, administered orally transmucosally (OTM), provides very reliable moderate to marked sedation within 20-30 minutes. With this route of administration, the dose closely follows the recommended intramuscular (IM) dosage (Table 1).2,3,4 Aggressive or fearful dogs are best administered this drug 30-60 minutes prior to hospital visit (owners follow up with the injection solution without a needle home, 2 doses if one is lost during the administration attempt) and indicate that the effect is greatest after absorption from the oral mucosa. Contraindications are listed but mainly include medical conditions that would discourage the use of acepromazine in an anesthetic protocol (Table 1).

Gabapentin is an antiepileptic, anxiolytic, and analgesic widely used in humans and more recently in veterinary medicine for the management of chronic pain.1,5 The exact mechanism of action of analgesia is unknown but has been postulated due to its interaction with voltage-gated calcium channels. 2,3,5 In the acute situation (first day or two of dosing), sedation after gabapentin administration is often profound. This makes gabapentin an ideal agent to use alone or often in combination with acepromazine as part of a prehospital sedation protocol in difficult canine patients. Dosing recommendations and schedules are suggested below (Table 1). Owners need to be made aware that their pet often appears much calmer in the home. Supervision when climbing stairs and getting in and out of cars should be recommended for patients receiving gabapentin alone or in combination with other depressants.

Trazodone is classified as a Serotonin Receptor Antagonist and Reuptake Inhibitor (SARI)2,6,7 primarily used in the acute hospital setting to treat anxious patients6, and long term as a single or adjunctive agent in dogs with anxiety disorders.7 While trazodone has a strong safety profile should be used with caution in patients with known arrhythmias, since serotonergic drugs can increase the heart’s arrhythmogenic potential.8 The onset of action is approximately one hour and the dose range can be wide for this drug (Table 1). , but for the purpose of prehospital sedation, it is recommended to start at 5 mg/kg.

Melatonin, the naturally occurring hormone produced by the pineal gland, is available as a neutroceutical for dogs (http://www.lignans.net/melatonin1.html). While melatonin has been shown to be beneficial in treating certain endocrine disorders, it is a helpful adjunct for stress disorders in dogs. Therefore, melatonin is offered as an over-the-counter recommendation for dogs with hospitalized aggression and anxiety (Table 1).

Drug dose Time of administration* Contraindications Acepromazine tablets: 1-2 mg/kg

Recommended: Injectable (OTM): 0.01-0.05 mg/kg

Small volumes can be diluted with 0.9% saline for ease of administration. Time of onset ~20-30 minutes, therefore best 30-60 minutes prior to hospital visit Geriatrics Administer gabapentin 10-20 mg/kg (high end of dose in very difficult to manage dogs, low end of dose in geriatric patients) In the Administer PO night before hospital visit, then repeat same dose on morning of hospital visit (at least 2 hours before) – Hepatic failure – Seriously ill – Pediatric Melatonin By weight: < 5 kg - 1 mg 5 - 15 kg - 1.5 mg 15 - 50 kg - 3 mg > 50 kg – 5 mg Morning of hospital visit, same time frame as morning gabapentin (2 hours before visit) Do not give trazodone 5 mg/kg PO the night before hospital visit, then same dose on morning of Repeat hospital visits (at least 2 hours prior to visit MOAIs) – Patients with a history of seizures/epilepsy9

Table 1: Dosage and schedule of administration of tranquilizers.

*Timing recommendations based on morning appointments. If the appointment falls in the afternoon or evening, the medications given in the morning are likely to have little effect. The timing schedule should be adjusted based on the dog’s appointment time.

While all of these drugs can be administered individually, it is recommended to combine them gradually until the desired sedation is achieved. The combination of gabapentin and acepromazine is often very effective in aggressive and/or anxious patients, allowing one to safely muzzle, e-collar, or administer supplemental IM sedation without undue stress on the dog or hospital staff to charge. However, if additional home sedation is desired, melatonin and then trazodone may be considered.

When sending home sedation to owners prior to the hospital visit, it is important to test the sedation before the event so owners have an idea of ​​what to expect. It is very common for the dog to appear much calmer at home compared to the clinic and the length of sedation can be variable – up to 24 hours which is normal and not harmful. Practice and learned comfort with oral sedation can dramatically improve the hospital experience for stressed and anxious dogs, but requires preparation of oneself, clients, and staff to mitigate additional stressors within the hospital environment. The result is a dog that adapts more easily to a new environment, allowing for improved patient assessment and patient-doctor relationship.

References:

Last updated February 15, 2022. Checked for accuracy December 11, 2019 by JoAnna Pendergrass, DVM

KEY FINDINGS Benadryl is a brand name for an antihistamine (diphenhydramine HCl) that can help reduce the symptoms of allergic reactions and even anxiety.

Benadryl is a relatively safe and effective medication for dogs and cats, but you should check with your veterinarian first.

Know the right dosage for your dog and watch closely for side effects.

Benadryl is not yet FDA approved for veterinary use, but is generally considered safe for use in dogs with mild to moderate allergies. Benadryl is a brand name for an antihistamine (diphenhydramine HCl) that can help relieve symptoms of allergic reactions and even anxiety. Histamine is a substance released by mast cells (a type of immune cell) that is responsible for inflammation and other allergy symptoms. The active ingredient in Benadryl is diphenhydramine, which blocks histamine receptors on the cell surface, meaning the receptors cannot ‘accept’ histamine trying to attach and trigger an allergic reaction.

Symptoms of allergic reactions that can be treated with Benadryl include hives, swelling, and itching. Severe reactions, such as anaphylaxis, can be life-threatening and should be treated by a veterinarian (who can give diphenhydramine along with other emergency injections).

Benadryl use for dogs

Many vets approve of Benadryl for home use as a regular treatment. It can be suitable for:

Seasonal Allergies

food allergies

environmental allergies

snake and insect bites

motion sickness

fear

Heartworm treatment (prevents allergic reactions during treatment)

Treatment of mast cell tumors (decreases response to massive release of histamine from mast cells)

How does Benadryl work for motion sickness or anxiety?

Dogs can experience fear in unfamiliar or uncomfortable situations, such as B. during a move, at the vet visit or when left alone. Because Benadryl also causes drowsiness, pet parents have also had good luck using the drug to calm their anxious dog.

Some dogs suffer from motion sickness when riding in cars, which can be due to anxiety. The Merck Veterinary Manual also recommends using Benadryl to relieve motion sickness during car journeys. In some cases, the sedative effects of Benadryl can be enough to reduce auto-anxiety and its associated symptoms. However, for dogs that continue to get stomach pains when driving in the car, be sure to consult your veterinarian.

Is Benadryl safe for dogs?

Benadryl is a relatively safe and effective medication for dogs and cats, but there is a caveat. It’s safest to check with your pet’s veterinarian first, especially if other conditions or symptoms are present.

“Benadryl is widely available over the counter and can be used on the advice of your veterinarian for mild itching from allergies, bug bites, flea irritation, and a number of other conditions,” says Dr. Justin Shmalberg, Animal Nutritionist at NomNomNow. “It’s a very safe drug; It can cause drowsiness in some pets, but my clients have never found this to occur to a worrying degree. Of course, if a problem persists, if there are open sores, or if you notice any side effects to this medication, talk to your veterinarian as soon as possible.”

Benadryl dosage for dogs

The usual dosage is around 1 mg per pound, two to three times a day. Vets often recommend starting with half a dose to see how much it sedates the dog the first time. Pet owners should be aware that tablets and capsules commonly come in 25mg sizes, but other sizes (such as 50mg) also exist. Read the labels on the bottle.

Benadryl pills/tablets

dr Shmalberg recommends the following with a 25 mg tablet:

Dog size 25 mg tablet Diphenhydramine Very small (4-10 pounds) ¼ tablet Small (10-20 pounds) ½ tablet Medium (20-30 pounds) 1 tablet Larger dogs 1 tablet per 25 pounds of body weight

Benadryl for children

Chewable tablets for children typically contain 12.5 mg per tablet.

Dog size 12.5 mg tablet Very small (4-10 pounds) ½ tablet Small (10-20 pounds) 1 tablet Medium (20-30 pounds) 2 tablets Larger dogs 2 tablets per 25 pounds of body weight

Liquid Benadryl

Because liquid medications are not absorbed like tablets, please speak to your veterinarian before administering liquid Benadryl.

Possible side effects of Benadryl

If your dog or cat has a chronic medical condition such as glaucoma, diabetes, high blood pressure, epilepsy, or seizures, or is pregnant, consult your veterinarian before dosing your pet, as some of these conditions may be made worse by the addition of the medication. The most common side effects include:

sleepiness

Dry mouth

urinary retention

Increased heart rate

Rapid breathing

The rarest side effects are diarrhea and vomiting

Can my dog ​​overdose on Benadryl?

According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, it’s possible for your dog to overdose on Benadryl. Signs of overdose are central nervous system (CNS) hyperexcitability and can be fatal. Signs usually show up within an hour of ingestion.

Can my dog ​​overdose on Benadryl?

According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, it’s possible for your dog to overdose on Benadryl. Signs of overdose are central nervous system (CNS) hyperexcitability and can be fatal. Signs usually show up within an hour of ingestion.

When to see a vet

If you suspect your dog has overdosed, call or visit your local veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic immediately.

Here are some warning signs to look out for:

hyperactivity or depression

Excessive salivation

Rapid breathing

Rapid heartbeat

Dilated pupils

agitation

constipation

seizures

Can a Dog Have an Allergy to Benadryl?

Some dogs develop an allergic reaction to Benadryl. If your dog shows symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately. Because Benadryl for Dogs is often used to treat allergies, you should keep a close eye on your dog after Benadryl is first given to make sure allergy symptoms aren’t getting worse.

When NOT to give Benadryl to your dog:

Benadryl is only suitable for mild to moderate reactions. If your pet is having an acute allergic reaction with facial swelling or difficulty breathing, get to the vet right away.

If your dog has glaucoma, high blood pressure, seizures, or epilepsy or cardiovascular disease, do not give them Benadryl. It could make these conditions worse.

Do not give your dog Benadryl if she is pregnant.

If your dog is taking any other medications, it’s especially important that you consult your veterinarian before giving your dog Benadryl, as there can be drug interactions that can be harmful or make an existing condition worse.

Benadryl Dos and Don’ts

Check with your veterinarian before administering Benadryl.

Watch your dog closely for at least an hour after giving him Benadryl.

Give your dog the correct dosage based on their size.

Do not give Benadryl if your dog is having a severe allergic reaction – get to the vet straight away.

Do not give Benadryl if your dog has glaucoma, diabetes, high blood pressure, seizures or epilepsy, cardiovascular disease, or is pregnant.

According to data from Healthy Paws in the 2018 Cost of Pet Health Care report, allergies were the eighth most common reason for dog parents to visit the vet.

The content is not intended as a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified healthcare provider if you have questions about a medical diagnosis, condition, or treatment options.

NOTE: It is always best to consult your veterinarian before giving your pet any medication, including Benadryl.

Benadryl, also known by its generic name diphenhydramine, is one of the few over-the-counter medications that veterinarians routinely have owners prescribe at home.

Maybe you’re looking for Benadryl to relieve your dog’s anxiety, or maybe your dog was bitten by an insect and is having a mild allergic reaction.

While Benadryl is generally well tolerated by dogs and has a wide safety margin, it’s not necessarily the answer to your dog’s problem.

For some dogs, trying to give them Benadryl to calm them down can have the opposite effect and make them more anxious. Additionally, Benadryl should not be administered to animals with certain health conditions.

Benadryl can also interact with other medications your pet may be taking (such as anticoagulants and other nervous system depressants), so it’s advisable to check with a veterinarian before administering it.

Find out when Benadryl is effective and safe, and when your dog needs different treatment. Here are a few things to consider before giving Benadryl to your dog.

1. Can dogs take Benadryl for anxiety?

You may have heard that Benadryl can be given to dogs to help with travel anxiety or dogs who are afraid of fireworks and thunderstorms.

Benadryl has some effectiveness in preventing motion sickness in dogs and as a mild sedative, but the effects are not the same as in humans. Some dogs and cats can actually have the opposite reaction to Benadryl, causing hyperactivity instead of sedation.

If your dog is anxious or nervous while traveling, talk to your veterinarian to establish a treatment plan. This may include changes in your dog’s environment, behavioral training, or aids such as anxiety vests and pheromones.

2. Can Benadryl be used for dog allergies?

Benadryl is an antihistamine that blocks the H-1 receptors in smooth muscle and blood vessels. Taken orally, Benadryl can be mildly to moderately effective in dogs with mild allergic symptoms.

Veterinarians often use it to treat environmental allergies and allergic reactions to insect stings or bites. It can also be used as a pre-treatment for possible vaccine reactions.

But if your pet is having an acute allergic reaction with facial swelling or trouble breathing, take them straight to the vet. Many allergic diseases also require a combination of allergological medications and treatment of underlying infections.

3. Benadryl Safety: What Dogs Can’t Have It?

On the whole, Benadryl is very well tolerated by dogs, with few side effects and a low risk of overdose. It remains one of the safest over-the-counter medications that veterinarians frequently reach for and recommend to their canine patients.

But the reason you still need to check in with your veterinarian is to make sure it is safe for your dog to take Benadryl as there are safety risks if your dog suffers from certain health conditions. Some cases where it should not be used are:

Low blood pressure

Heart disease (cardiovascular diseases)

glaucoma

Currently pregnant

4. What is the Benadryl dosage for dogs?

With any medication, the safest way to administer the correct dose is to consult your veterinarian. Additionally, many formulations are combined with other drugs such as Tylenol, so make sure Benadryl tablets only contain diphenhydramine.

There are also different forms of Benadryl, including tablet, liquid, time-release, children’s chewable tablets, and children’s liquid formula.

Benadryl tablets

According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, the standard dose for Benadryl is 2-4 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, or 0.9-1.8 milligrams (mg) of Benadryl per pound.

Therefore, a simple and convenient dose is 1mg of Benadryl per pound of your dog’s weight, administered 2-3 times daily. For example, a 10-pound dog may be dosed at 10 mg morning, afternoon, and evening.

Most Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) tablets are 25 mg, which would be the appropriate size for a 25 pound dog. For smaller dogs you will need to cut or split these 25mg pills. In this case, Benadryl for children in the chewable tablets can be a good option. These come in dosages of 12.5 mg.

Time release and liquid Benadryl

Diphenhydramine is also available in other formulations, including liquid Benadryl and some sustained-release forms.

Don’t give your dog any sustained-release medications, as these can break down in your dog’s stomach faster than the human stomachs they were designed for, and this can lead to your dog overdosing.

Talk to your veterinarian before giving liquid Benadryl to your dog. You may need to adjust the dose as liquid medications are not absorbed like pills.

Featured image: iStock.com/ILIA KALINKIN

One of the reasons most people take their dog to a professional groomer is because groomers seem to have the amazing ability to get dogs to stay still! The reality is that most dogs get anxious and fidgety around groomers as well, but groomers have a few things in their favor that will help make the grooming session a success.

surfaces

For example, groomers use non-slip surfaces. This type of padding placed on appropriate surfaces (like the top of grooming tables/around bathing areas) really helps a person keep a dog still for grooming purposes. It definitely beats the alternative – slippery surfaces make it nearly impossible to keep a dog still. Non-slip surfaces are also known to help prevent fatigue…in a way, the surface helps the dog stay calm, which also means less work for the groomer.

Tool

There is such a thing as a grooming noose. Now, before you get nervous, realize that this is essentially a specific type of leash that helps keep a dog calm and well-centered on the grooming table—without hurting the dog. Attached to a tall metal bar shaped like an inverted L, the noose holds the dog around his neck. It also prevents the dog from jumping off the table. When does it tighten? Only if the dog pulls. Some groomers use grooming slings. If the dog is particularly shaky, restraints can be used around the neck as well as around the hindquarters.

experienced voice

The words a groomer uses and the way he or she speaks to a dog can really help the dog calm down and remain still for their dog grooming session. Harsh sounds make a dog nervous. Gentle calm the dog. With gentleness, patience, and rewards, a dog can and will sit still. Rewards are especially helpful because they help distract the dog – who will then chew on the snack and distract himself from everything else that’s going on in the room!

Calming environment

Some hairdressers use soothing aids in their salons. They will fill the room with soothing pheromones in the air or essential oils through a diffuser. Maybe they use certain shampoos with soothing ingredients like lavender. When a vet writes a prescription for tranquilizers for a dog’s grooming session, the groomer can use these to keep a dog calm. Note: Only use groomers that give tranquilizers with the approval of a veterinarian.

Do you find it difficult to keep your dog calm? At D’Tails Grooming we can take care of the grooming of your dog; Please call 706-731-0089 for more information.

This post may contain affiliate links. It costs you nothing extra and keeps our lights on, feeds our families and spoils our dogs. For the juicy fine print, see our Partner Disclosure

Many people have dogs that won’t let their parents clip their claws.

Although nail embellishments is nobody’s idea of ​​fun, it’s a nightmare when you have a dog that freaks out about it.

There are solutions to make nail trimming easier. These are designed to desensitize your dog against using a different nail clipper or using a Dremel instead of nail clippers.

If a dog is extremely aggressive and you’re concerned it might bite you, getting support from your GP is the best place to start.

However, if your dog is anxious or overly fidgety but not aggressive, try other options at home, such as

There are also ways to trim your dog’s nails without scissors.

If you can convince yourself that clipping your dog’s nails isn’t as bad as he thinks it will be much more convenient to trim your dog’s nails at home.

Even if you still bring your dog for nail trimming, it’s a good idea to familiarize him with the process for his sake and to ensure the safety of the person doing the trimming.

For me, four dogs mean 16 paws of nail clipping fun. Ginger was our problem child when it came to nail trimming and she has black nails which made the job even more challenging.

Some dogs don’t like having their feet touched; Ginger has lost his mind!

At first we tried to hold her paws and she cried, screamed and even nibbled the hurting hand. It took Ginger a long time to overcome her fears, but now she always wants to be first in line to get her nails trimmed.

What Are the Reasons Dogs Won’t Let You Clip Their Claws?

Abuse – so they are afraid of being touched or being held back

Past experiences were painful

You were never trained to cut your nails

Falsely restrained

The tool used to trim nails is inconvenient or scary

Not a fan of having her feet touched

Now that we know some of the reasons dogs don’t like nail trimming, let’s figure out how to get them around it.

How to trim a dog’s claws

If you don’t know how to clip your dog’s claws, you could accidentally harm your dog.

It is best to have a professional teach you, either your veterinarian or a trusted groomer.

Does your dog drive you crazy during the day? Get our list of 11 great indoor activities to keep your dog busy and out of trouble! GET THE LIST

Detailed instructions are available online from the ASPCA, but in-person instruction is best.

Sometimes changing the type of nail clipping tool can make a big difference in your dog’s response.

There are three main types of nail clipping tools:

Scissor style guillotine nail grinder

scissor style

This is the style we use.

I feel like I have more control of the trimmer and my dogs are more comfortable with the scissor style than the guillotine style.

The scissors style can cut the nails side to side or top to bottom.

Recommended Clipper – Safari Professional dog nail trimmer

guillotine

This trimmer cuts from the bottom up.

The blade comes up from the base of the trimmer to cut the nail.

Recommended Clipper – Safari Guillotine Nail Clipper

nail grinder

A nail grinder is a small electric handheld grinder that grinds and shapes the nail.

For some dogs, the nail grinder works better than traditional clippers, but it can be more time-consuming. Note that some dogs do not like the grinder’s vibrations and sounds.

It’s important to use a nail trimmer that’s designed to trim a dog’s nails, and not a artisanal or industrial one. An industrial grinder may be too powerful and not provide the control you need.

Hemostatic powder

It’s always good to have a blood clotting powder on hand.

Even the most experienced groomer can clip a dog’s claws too short.

I never start clipping the dog’s claws without it.

Recommended Blood Stop – Four Paws Quick Blood Stopper Powder

maintenance

Regardless of which tool you like best, it is important that it is well maintained.

For the hair clipper, this means sharp blades. A dull blade on a nail clipper is like using a butter knife instead of a steak knife. Using a dull blade can cause discomfort to your dog.

For the nail grinder, maintenance means changing the Dremel bit when it wears out or making sure the grinding wheel is in good condition and replacing it when needed.

How do I desensitize my dog ​​to nail clipping?

Desensitization is the best solution to changing your dog’s response to nail clipping.

If you’ve never desensitized your dog before, you know the process takes time and patience, but it’s rewarding in the end.

Please note that I am not a certified dog trainer and I do NOT recommend attempting this if your dog is showing extreme fear or aggression.

If your dog is either exceedingly anxious or aggressive, you should seek professional help before attempting to desensitize your dog yourself.

Things you need to desensitize your dog to claws

Great treats! The more anxious your dog is, the more awesome the treats need to be

nail clippers

Training clicker if you use one

A cheerful but calm voice and a calm demeanor. If you’re nervous, tense, or anxious, your dog will notice and often reflect the same emotions. Take a deep breath, meditate, or visualize a positive outcome. Do whatever it takes to bring a calm presence to this practice.

I can’t stress that last point enough!

Your attitude, energy, emotions, whatever you want to call it, is your most powerful training tool. Whether it is a positive or negative tool is up to you.

Notice I didn’t list any blood stops?

This is because we will not be cutting nails during this exercise.

The first exercise

Grab your high quality treats and nail clippers. Oh, and don’t forget your dog. Place the clippers within sight of your dog but at a comfortable distance. We don’t want to change their negative reaction into a positive one. We’re trying to avoid a negative reaction to the trimmer overall. When your dog looks at the clipper, give him a treat and praise him in a happy but calm voice. You should not spend high energy on it, because then you have to try to cut the claws of a very excited dog, which is also not fun. If your dog tries to leave the room, crouches, or reacts negatively, you are too close to the trimmer. Move the clipper farther away. Once your dog has left the room, try leading him back with a treat. If your dog refuses to return to the area, don’t force him. Pause the exercise and start again later at a greater distance. Repeat this exercise daily, slowly moving toward the clippers each time. The clipper does not move closer to the dog. The dog approaches the clipper at its comfort level. Continue until your dog is comfortable with you holding the trimmer. If your dog creeps up on you anxiously, your dog is not ready for the next exercise.

I always show my dogs the clippers and then call them to me.

I don’t hide the clippers from them because it can create suspicion. Also, I let them come to me so I know they’ll be comfortable and won’t feel cornered when we start.

This exercise is intended to create a positive association with the clippers themselves.

If your dog doesn’t care about clippers, this exercise is relatively quick. The goal of this exercise is to get your dog to feel calm and relate to seeing the clippers when given a treat. Once you’ve mastered this (which means you’ll get a consistently positive response), you can move on to the next exercise.

tips

Don’t force your dog into awkward situations.

Force your dog into awkward situations. Keep workouts short for 5 minutes

Slow down. It’s not about completing each step as quickly as possible

Keep the workouts positive

Skip workouts when you’re in a bad mood; All things with desensitization must be positive.

The next exercise and every exercise after that

Each time your dog completes a level, your next exercise will be the next step you would take in declawing.

The aim is to link each step with a positive association.

After your dog has mastered the first exercise, move on to the next stage of nail trimming, then the next, then the next as your dog adjusts to the previous stages.

Have your dog sit or lie down with you while you hold the clippers. Touch/hold/raise paw near clipper – This depends on whether your dog cares when their paws are touched. Don’t skip steps and don’t combine too many. Touch the paw with the clippers. Put the hair clipper on the nail without cutting it. Add Blood Stop to your list of things you need for this exercise! Cut off only the tips of the nails. I start with a nail, then finish the exercise and walk away. You can do another nail in about half an hour, but don’t rush the process

Eventually, you’ll be able to trim all of the nails on one paw with any exercise, and before you know it, you and your dog will be nail-trimming pros.

Nail cutting teamwork

Sometimes trimming the nails is more manageable with help

It can be helpful to have one person clip the dog’s claws and the other person distract/reward the dog with treats.

Another option is to pick up and hold the dog.

Daisy has always been great at getting her nails trimmed, but when her arthritis set in it became painful when I lifted her front paw.

Now my husband picks her up and holds her, dangling her legs below. Then I squat down and trim her nails while my husband holds her.

Other times it’s nice to have help when your dog needs to be restrained. Some dogs get nervous or overly excited and need a firm but gentle hug to keep them in place.

If your dog is aggressive, I recommend seeking professional help or using a secure, soft-sided muzzle.

Conclusion

There are many ways to meet the challenge of nail trimming, and sometimes the easiest way is to hire a trained professional to do it.

But if you want to do it yourself, we hope these tips can help you and your dog.

It is extremely important to keep a dog calm and comfortable during a professional grooming session to ensure a safe and accurate cut.

A new and strange era of noise and equipment, dogs who have never visited professional groomers before may be unfamiliar with this environment, leading to fearful behavior.

Ensuring that the dog is comfortable in their environment is critical to an effective and productive professional grooming session.

Meeting the dog’s needs and requirements during the grooming process is important if you want the end result to be as flawless and stunning as possible.

Whether you’re taking your dog to the groomer or grooming them, read on for tips on keeping dogs calm to minimize your dog’s discomfort.

Table of Contents:

Allow them to explore the equipment

Familiarize the dog with the equipment

Use treats

Take a break

Stop when it gets too much

Relaxing music/familiar sounds

Go to the drawing room

Allow them to explore the equipment

Making sure your dog or your client’s dog feels safe in your hands is the only way to build a trusting relationship with them.

The grooming salon can be stressful and worrying for dogs, so making them feel calm and ready to be professionally groomed is the only way to help them feel comfortable.

Encourage the dog to explore the equipment on their own, and then let them sniff and make contact so the overall experience is a positive one.

Calm and happy dogs make the best dogs to groom, so it’s important to take baby steps when introducing a dog to the grooming salon for the first time in order to have positive grooms-to-be.

Familiarize the dog with the equipment

Fear of the unknown can discourage people from trying new experiences, which is no different with dogs.

To make grooming easy and enjoyable, create a familiar environment where the dog feels like they are in control.

Start by sniffing out the equipment you intend to use and try it on the dog beforehand so there are no unwelcome surprises.

Turn the clippers on and off to allow the dog to get used to the sound, then rub them side down over their body to get them used to feeling the vibrations and mimic the groomer’s action.

When brushing, you can use the same process, running the bristles down the dog’s back without penetrating the coat, to prepare the dog for what is to come.

If it’s one of your first times in the salon, take it at your own pace and follow their lead – after all, the client is always right!

Use treats

If you have a dog that is particularly nervous about professional grooming equipment or isn’t comfortable with the whole experience, treats are an ideal way to reward them for letting you groom them.

If they stand or sit still and allow you to maneuver them as needed, reward them with verbal praise and a pet. Your dog will begin to associate rest with rewards for more relaxed grooming.

For nervous dogs, ask the owner’s permission to give them treats to encourage the continuation of good and obedient behavior. Eventually, caring for the dog becomes a lot less of an ordeal.

Only reward the dog when he is calm and still, and once the dog has become accustomed to the process, increase the time between treats and continue to reward his behavior.

Take a break

When the grooming process becomes too much for the dog, it is important to recognize this behavior and stop grooming.

If you’re trying to gain a dog’s trust, you need to know that if you’re not comfortable, the grooming stops.

By gradually introducing the grooming process to the dog, breaks become less frequent and eventually are no longer needed.

Brush little and often to build trust, and only extend grooming sessions when the dog is completely relaxed.

Stop when it gets too much

In addition to taking breaks, it is important to recognize when the dog is getting too much.

If the dog you’re grooming becomes withdrawn or restless or distressed, it’s time to acknowledge that body language and stop grooming.

Forcing the process any further will lead to further frustration and potentially wasting all the time you’ve spent helping the dog stay calm.

Relaxing music/ familiar sounds

If you have nervous or anxious dogs visiting your salon, ask their owners for something familiar to calm them down.

Whether it’s the music they listen to at home or noises they’re used to, relaxing, familiar noises can help a dog relax and distract them from stressful situations.

Go to the drawing room

Some dogs find driving a car to be a traumatic and uncomfortable experience. From nervousness to car sickness, it’s probably best to leave the car at home if your dog is a nervous traveler.

If the grooming salon is within walking distance, take your dog to the salon to release any pent-up energy prior to the grooming session.

If this isn’t plausible, allow play time in the waiting room to take your dog’s focus off of what’s in front of him.

To make sure you always have something on hand to defuse stressful situations, browse our stress management products. From soothing sprays to shampoos, we have something for all anxious dogs.

Related articles:

The difference between mixers, thinners and chunkers

The 5 most important reasons why your dog should see a professional groomer

How do I keep my dog ​​clean in spring?