The Club Scrub Details
Everything starts with the Club Scrub - or as I like to call it - the best bath in town. Over the years, I have learned that a really good bath is the foundation for everything. The Club Scrub will make your pup feel clean, smell great, and keep their skin and coat healthy. My baths are all-inclusive because every dog deserves the works! This means I wash your dog twice (once for the skin and once for the coat), condition the coat, wash the face, clean the ears, dry and brush the coat, and clip and grind the nails.
Skill
Most people think that washing a dog is nothing more than throwing them in a tub, slapping on some product, and then rinsing it all off. This will work, but often people are shocked at the difference they see, feel, and smell after their dog has had a professionally done bath. There is a specific feel that lets a groomer know a shampoo is lathered enough to do its job. There is a knowing to how to treat the skin properly. There is also a feel that tells you the shampoo is properly rinsed. All these things come with time and practice.
Compassion and Training
I work with your dog, not against them. I feel it is my job to learn how to work best with your dog and will never force them into doing something my way. Throughout the bath, I am not just focusing on getting your dog clean, but I am also gently training them to be tolerant of all the things I need to do to them.
Hugs and Treats
I believe in lots of positive reinforcement throughout the process. This may look like kind words, hugs, being playful, and, of course, treats. Please let me know if your dog has any dietary restrictions so I can be certain to give them appropriate treats.
The Right Shampoo
Over the years, I have tried and tested many different shampoos and know exactly what shampoo is best on your dog's skin and coat. I don’t use just one brand of shampoo, but have carefully curated the best shampoos across a wide variety of brands. After washing, I will add a conditioner if it is appropriate for your dog's coat.
Washing Twice
I always wash a dog twice. The first bath is to remove dirt and debris. The second bath is to treat the skin and coat. After assessing your dog's skin and coat, I will choose the perfect products that will work the best with them.
Washing the Face
We all love doggy kisses, so getting the face fresh and yummy-smelling is always a priority. We use a special face wash that will not hurt their eyes, but does allow us to clean out all those nasties that get into the corners of their eyes. By washing the face properly, it'll stay clean and fresh for a longer time.
Ear Cleaning
I will make sure your dog's ears are clean and dry. If there is excessive wax in your dog's ears or if they look irritated, I will let you know.
Drying and Brushing the Coat
Properly brushing out a dog's coat is also a well-honed skill. I know how to get your dog's coat perfectly fluffy, smooth, and/or shiny - depending on what the breed's needs dictate. I also know how to work with your dog so as not to over-brush any one area and cause irritation.
De-matting
Again, this is a special skill that takes a delicate touch. A heavy hand can cause pain to your dog, but too light of a hand will end up leaving the hair on top smooth, while mattes continue to grow underneath. Over time, these knots can pull at your dog's skin and can cause them pain. Brushing will address small matts and break them up before they form into clusters. Larger matts or clusters will take extra attention, and I may charge an extra $1 per minute for this service up to 30 minutes. I will not de-mat for more than 30 minutes at a time, as I have found that this is the most a dog will tolerate. For more information, see our Service Add-Ons.
Nail Cutting and Grinding
I will always try to grind your dog's nails first, as this is the most effective and gentle way to shorten nails. If your dog is too skittish about the grinder, I will cut the nails with clippers and then file the edges as best I can. I will never over-restrain your dog in order to do their nails. I have many techniques I can employ to keep your dog calm while doing their nails. However, some dogs have become traumatized by nail clipping in the past, and I may not be able to overcome their fear response. In these rare cases, I will refer you to a salon or vet (where multiple people can help with nail trims).