Using Fear Free techniques, I work to break the process into smaller, easier to handle steps and pair ample positives with the entire process. In addition, it’s about lessening the stress by reducing exposure to especially stressful stimuli. If the animal is especially sensitive to water around the face for instance that’s when a wet, wrung out washcloth or pet wipes may be used. It’s also imperative that the animal always has a nonslip surface to stand on to combat their number one fear of falling.
If possible, we try to bring the pet in for a trial visit so they can get a feel for the surroundings and meet the groomer. That way, the actual grooming appointment isn't an entirely new experience. Exercising one's dog before the grooming appointment is another way to potentially calm them down during the grooming appointment. All of the groomers at our locations are trained specifically in dealing with anxious dogs, so we've got a wide variety of strategies to help make it an enjoyable experience for everyone.
When a dog’s scared of water during grooming, focus on making the experience as calm and positive as possible. Start by letting them get comfortable in the grooming area, rewarding them with treats for staying relaxed, and using a gentle sprayer to ease them into the process. It’s all about taking it slow, being patient, and making sure the dog feels safe. Over time, even the most water-shy pups can learn to handle bath time without stress!
Dealing with a pet's fear of water during grooming can be challenging for animal professionals. To handle this, we often use a gradual desensitization approach, introducing water slowly and pairing it with positive reinforcement like treats and praise. Some argue that forceful methods are necessary, but we believe patience and kindness yield better results. Utilizing calming aids such as pheromone sprays or gentle music can also help soothe anxious pets. Some even skip water and use dry shampoos or wipes instead. The goal is to keep the pet as calm as possible.