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Puppy grooming
by Steve and Terri
ORIGINAL MESSAGE:
We have a 16 week old male named Sir Regenald. We are wondering if he is too young to go to the groomers yet. Our main concern is the hair around his eyes. Any advise would be appriciated.
Thank you, Steve, Terri and Reggie
DISCUSSION:
Steve and Terri, I think it would be good for the puppy to get groomed at this age so the puppy will get used to it. I have Comet groomed every three weeks since we brought him home.
* Actually, Bailey does not yet have his rabies (our vet waits until 6 months, but that is not a problem at the groomer's)
Halen
Your pup is definitely old enough to be groomed and in fact the earlier you start the more readily he will accept it. I suggest you start a daily ritual for brushing, etc - even if you do intend to have a groomer do the more intense grooming. Congratulations on your new baby!
Leslie R
I agree-the sooner , the better. Also, start massaging your puppy all over including the toes and paw pads. He needs to be used to being handled, because of the daily combing and brushing that is needed. Be sure and check the archives for all the related articles on grooming your Maltese.
April B
Steve and Terri,I waited until my baby had all his vaccinations* before I was willing to bring him to the groomer's. In fact, most groomer's require this. At sixteen weeks, Sir Regenald is probably immunized. That is the age Sugar and Bailey first went to be coiffed! The hair in the eyes problem was completely eliminated by the groomers's styling. I left them and came back in one hour rather than leave them all day. I don't know if your schedules permit that, but it is helpful. Also, I too, massage Bailey all over so he gets used to touch...good luck.
Linda R.
Steve and Terri, my vet told me to wait until 3 week after the last shots had been given to be more certain of immunity. Until then, you can brush and comb, bathe, trim toenails, clean ears, etc. Re: hair in eyes, you can try a top knot. There are several books on the market that describe how to accomplish this hair feat. I was never any good at hair with my human daughter, so I have not attempted this, but the books recommend latex rubber bands (you can get these at an orthodontist's office if no where else). Another tip...I found that when I put Toby on a Rubbermaid spongy-type mat (bought in the dish section at Wal-Mart) on a small table, she didn't wiggle so much and try to get away. Good luck
Laney
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Please bear in mind when reading topics pertaining to health issues, that most of these questions were answered by helpful Maltese owners with no formal education in veterinary medicine. When in doubt seek a professionals advise.