calliecritturs
Posted : 4/20/2006 10:17:19 PM
Hi -- the key to this is desensitizing the dog. First off the dog probably has had a super bad experience at a groomers, so I would choose my groomer carefully.
I always pack a bag of yummy treats -- leftover steak cut into pieces, or really super great stuff. Usually I make two baggies -- one for the groomer and one for the rest of the staff. Make sure they can give the dog ALL that is in this bag -- stick in part of the dog's dinner kibble if you need to, but let them be generous.
Then at home YOU need to start desensitizing this. Get the tools out, and bring the dog to you. Let the dog sniff it and treat without even plugging it in. Stop before the dog shows fear.
Every day get them out -- and go a step further. Next day plug it in -- still no power but treat. Next day go as far as turning it on AND TREAT.
It may take you a week or better to even get it so air blows ON the dog. But even just putting the back of your hand on the dog while holding the thing 'on' will help -- let him feel the vibration but it is not hurting him.
Make thes training sessions quick and painless. Lots of praise and lots of rewards for being brave.
You might call around about groomers -- look for one LONG on patience -- one who is willing to see the dog and treat without doing the grooming. Ease into it -- slow and sweet.
At some point this dog has gotten horribly scared. The right groomer will help undo this. You might also use something like Calms (Hylands - it's ahomeopathic) or valerian non-alcohol tincture (a relaxant -- it's an herb) to help relax the dog a bit.