You know how terrific you feel when you pamper yourself? Well, our furry companions feel the same way! But, our pets express themselves in a much more exuberant way. Have you ever watched your pet after a refreshing bath or grooming appointment?
It’s hysterical.
Pets – especially young dogs – zip and zoom from room to room, diving into pillows, scratching blankets or digging into carpeting. If your pet’s zoomies get real crazy, there may be a little sand involved.
Yes, our pets love to be pampered.
When they’re groomed it’s as if they want to tell the world how happy and healthy they feel. Most of the time this excitement is about pure glee, other times it’s their attempt to get relief from the scent of products we use to clean them.
A Real Phenomenon Called “The Zoomies.”
‘Zoomies’ are categorized as crazy outbursts of energy after a bath. They’re usually accompanied by yelps, yips, and yodels. This odd behavior is common in dogs, but both cats and dogs seem to get more rambunctious during these energy explosion episodes, commonly known as zoomies.Zoomie frenzies usually begin with your pet running in circles and a playful dig into anything they can get their paws on. Far too often, they get into mischief like mud after their bath. (Ugh.) They might jump on furniture, or worse, wreak havoc in your home—making a wet mess everywhere.‘Zoomie’ behavior typically means your pet is satisfied. But, it’s vital to keep your pet safe if and when they “zoom.”
5 Grooming Tips To Keep Your Pet Happy, Healthy—And Safe.
TIP #1: Bath & Brush
When people approach your pet, you want a pleasant scent to linger in the air versus having a pooch with a stale “wet dog” syndrome.
Be aware, our pet’s noses are many million times more receptive than ours. Therefore, the smells of products like shampoos and conditioners are intense. A dog’s sense of smell is so extreme that the sweet smell of fruity or flowery products will often heighten the zoomie activity as they often try to run away from their new scent.
Nonetheless, starting from a shiny outside coat, your pet likes to feel clean and tingling all over. You’ll notice that they often get frisky after a good bath and brush out.
Protect your precious fur companions from the harsh outdoor elements during winter months or in extreme heat with pet friendly paw balm.
Your pet’s face, feet, and fanny are all important areas to keep free of dirt and debris.
A grooming professional will know the perfect water temperature to use on your pet and will be aware of any allergies they may have.
Ask your Groomer what products are best to use for your pet.
TIP #2: Towels & Drying
A good schnoz roll from a wet dog is entertaining. But, pay heed before the zoomies begin.
If you give your dog a bath at home, and they get the zoomies, be certain that they’re completely dry before they make a dash for the door. Drying your dog thoroughly with a pet friendly, absorbent towel will keep your pet from going outside in the frigid elements when they’re still damp.
Your Groomer will carefully blot your pet with appropriate toweling versus a rough feverish rub. A fluffy warm towel and professional blow out after the bath will keep your pet warm and dry.
Also, when your Groomer blow dries your pet, they measure the ideal distance to stand away from your pet’s paws so they don’t irritate sensitive areas of the body.
TIP #3: Nails & Paws
Trim your pet’s toenails and keep their paws tidy in between their pads. Shortened dewclaws have less chance of snagging on carpeting and rugs. Your groomer knows the proper tools to use on your pet’s feet.
Grooming professionals are trained on proper pet approach too. They prefer appropriate handling techniques and will care for your pet as if they’re their own.
TIP #4: Ears & Teeth
Gently wipe the inside of ear flaps without poking into the ear canal itself. Avoid infections by inspecting your pet’s ears on a regular basis. If you see anything unusual like tiny, black caffe grind looking pellets, consult your Veterinarian immediately. Ear mites are a serious medical concern.
Making time to brush your pet’s teeth is a challenge. However, it’s vital their teeth and gums are in good condition. Small dogs are especially susceptible to poor health due to shoddy teeth hygiene.
EXTRA TIP: Place pet friendly toothpaste on a crunchy biscuit to allow the crunch motion to help break up any accumulating tartar on their teeth. Try using a toothy baby washcloth in between brushings. Tenderly, yet thoroughly, wipe your pet’s teeth and gums – top and bottom.
Ask your Groomer about brushing their teeth at your next grooming appointment.
TIP #5: Safe Grooming
If you give your pet a bath at home, wet furniture and messy floors are common zoomie problems. Keep your pet behind a latched gate or in a comfortable, cozy safe zone until they’ve had a chance to settle down. A pleasant grooming environment during bathing time is a quiet, clean, and contained room.
“Bath Zoomies: Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAP), otherwise known as the zoomies, happen to pretty much every dog, especially young ones. Everything is just SO FUN, suddenly, and they cannot possibly contain their excitement. Baths may very well bring out the zoomies.” – rover.comZoomies are funny to watch; however, be careful that your pets don’t harm themselves, others, or your home in the process. Monitor them after their bath. It’s easy for them to crash into walls, fall down steps, or slip off a sofa during a mad dash of happiness.
The grooming environment is just as important as the groom.
Remove collars, bandanas, tags, and leashes before their bath and during the drying process to avoid injury. These items could get caught in styling apparatus or holding crates. A tidy, safe, contained area where the zoomies won’t cause harm to your pet or to their surroundings is your best bet. Appropriate, sterilized, and spacious grooming rooms are made with zoomies in mind. A friendly, safe grooming environment is ideal for optimal health.
A Healthy “Zoomie” Solution
Allow your pet an opportunity to exercise before relaxing in the tub.
Consider expanding their energy at a size appropriate, temperature controlled day camp environment before their bath or grooming appointment. Socializing with other dogs and humans helps keep your pet content during their grooming session.
Choose Your Groomer Wisely
Be selective when it comes to Groomers. The best grooming professionals will notice your pet’s body. They’re your pet’s first line of defense for any unforeseen medical concerns. They’re trained to look for things on your pet’s body that other people might not see. Thus, they understand your pet from nose to rear end – tip to tail.
An ideal Groomer will strive for your pet’s health, happiness and well-being. Also, regular scheduled baths and grooming appointments help grooming professionals get to know your pet’s needs most.
Groom & Zoom. Clean & Coiffed. Safe & Shiny.
We love our pets and want them to stay well.
They deserve to stay clean and healthy – all year round. However, winter months are especially important to keep your pets groomed, as your pets typically spend increased time indoors. Make your pet’s grooming experience this year fun. And, keep your pet safe if they catch the zoomies afterwards.
Keep your pet happy, healthy, and safe this winter. Schedule your next grooming appointment today!About The Author:
Christine A. Bournias resides in Michigan with her 2-pack; two new beautiful adopted miracles. As her “Angelwriter”, Nicodemus (1997-2010) is the wisdom behind the stories she shares. Christine champions the magnitude of building the bond between a dog and their person(s) by means of respectful communication and enduring admiration.