top of page

Important information on grooming and the senior pet!

Dogs considered seniors vary on health of pet but, small dogs are generally considered seniors at the age of 7. Larger breed dogs tend to have shorter life spans and are considered seniors when they are approximately 5-6 years of age

Senior pets can develop many of the same problems seen in older people, such as

  1. cancer

  2. heart disease

  3. kidney/urinary tract disease

  4. liver disease

  5. diabetes

  6. joint or bone disease

  7. senility

  8. weakness

Senior pets should have semi-annual veterinary visits instead of annual visits so signs of illness or other problems can be detected early and treated. Senior pet exams are similar to those for younger pets, but are more in depth, and may include dental care, possible bloodwork, and specific checks for physical signs of diseases that are more likely in older pets.  These visits are particularly important as dogs tend to hide sickness very well and underlying problems could be developing without us knowing. Symptoms don't normally occur until the problem becomes serious.

Senior pets (all pets) need foods that are more nutritious.  Dogs that have been on a consistent diet that contain little to no nutrients may be at higher risks for poor health.  (foods containing the first few ingredients of corn or any byproducts are to be considered non nutritional. Such as most foods found in grocery stores)

Overweight dogs (especially seniors) increases the risk of health problems such as 

  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)

  • Diabetes or insulin resistance

  • Liver disease or dysfunction

  • Osteoarthritis (lameness)

  • Increased surgical/anesthetic risk

  • Lowered immune system function

  • Increased risk of developing malignant tumors (cancer)

Older pets' immune systems are not as healthy as those of younger animals; as a result, they can't fight off diseases or heal as fast as younger pets

Poor dental health:  The toxins from periodontal disease are absorbed into the dog's blood stream. As the kidneys, liver, and brain filter the blood, small infections occur causing permanent and at times fatal organ damage

Our Policy on Senior Pets

We know that a lot of breeds NEED grooming no matter what their age.

Because grooming can be stressful on senior pets, we highly recommend semi annual vet visits accompanied with full bloodwork (at least once a year) before moving on with grooming needs.

In the event that we see any type of stress, we will stop all grooming and call the pet parent to pick up and will only charge for any part of service provided.

We have the right to turn any pet away should we see that he/she might not be up to the grooming regimen.

Upon dropping off, you must sign a senior pet waiver that you acknowledge the risks involved with senior pets.

 

OUR SUGGESTIONS FOR SENIOR PET GROOMING

  • Do not book you dog on busier days, such as Saturdays or Sundays

  • Unless you MUST, do not try new groomers out for your senior pet.  Going to a new place can be especially stressful for them. Stick to what they know.

  • Keep up with grooming at home, such as keeping pets combed out, keeping corner of eyes cleaned free of bacteria causing eye boogies, more frequent nail trimmings.

  • Go for shorter maintenance clips that require shorter groom times and easier maintenance at home. (humanity before vanity)

  • Make sure you pet is in TIP TOP shape by being seen by your Vet regularly

  • Should you know that your senior pet is not in the best of health but still needs grooming, we work closely with another groomer in the area that specializes in seniors and would be happy to give you a referral.  Give us a call.

bottom of page