Grooming is an essential part of your puppy's care and not, as many people believe, a frivolous and unnecessary expense.

When you take your dog for regular grooming, you can be sure that her body is in the best possible condition as well as looking healthy. However, since your pup is fairly new to the world and hasn't been groomed before, it would be very beneficial to prepare for her for the process in the best ways that you can.

Here are our top tips for preparing for your puppy's first grooming appointment.

Find a Local Groomer in Gainesville, FL that You Feel Confident Leaving Your Puppy with

When you leave your precious pup in the hands of someone else, you want to be sure that they are experienced, competent, and have the best interests of your pet at heart. Unfortunately, not all groomers in Gainesville are created equal and therefore you may need to spend some time finding a reputable service. Ask any neighbors or nearby friends/family with dogs who they use and if they would recommend them. Alternatively, your Gainesville vet will be happy to give you a recommendation of a groomer that you can trust to treat your puppy just as you would.

Get Your Puppy Used to Being Handled

Unsurprisingly, grooming is a hands-on experience and if your puppy isn't used to the human touch, she may find the grooming process frightening and overwhelming. However, if she is used to being handled, she is much more likely to be able to tolerate being touched while being groomed. This will make her calmer and more relaxed, making tasks such as clipping her coat or trimming her claws much safer and easier. Make sure that you regularly handle her paws and ears.

Brush Her Coat at Home

Brushing is an essential part of the grooming process and should be started as soon as you bring your puppy home. Begin using a very soft brush since your puppy's skin will still be fairly delicate and you don't want to injure her. Ideally, all dogs should be brushed daily, irrespective of how long their coat is. When you brush her, you will stimulate the hair follicles to produce oils that will keep her coat shiny and in good condition. Regular brushing will help to minimize the occurrence of matting in her fur, which in turn will make bathing and brushing her easier for your groomer.

Make Sure She Is up to Date with Her Vaccinations and Parasite Prevention

Whether your puppy is going to a professional grooming salon or pet spa in Gainesville, FL, or you are having a groomer come to your home, you should make sure that she has had all of the preventative care that she needs before her first appointment. There are plenty of parasites, viruses, and infectious diseases that could potentially harm your pet, and while most grooming services will pay close attention to their cleanliness regime, there is still no guarantee that your pet is entirely safe from these problems - unless of course, their preventative care is up to date!

Don't Make a Fuss when You Leave Her

Puppies and dogs in general are very good at picking up on the emotional climate of their owner. This means that if you make a big deal out of leaving her at a pet spa, she is much more likely to become anxious and make a fuss. Instead, just say goodbye as if you were going to the store or work. This will reassure her that you will return to see her very soon.

If you are ready to book your puppy in for her very first grooming appointment, our dedicated pet groomers in Gainesville, FL would be delighted to get her looking and feeling fantastic for you. Please contact Prestige Pet Resort & Spa today at (352) 505-5304 to schedule her visit.