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Tips on dog grooming from a professional groomer

During the Circuit Breaker period, many pawrents had to result to emergency DIY grooming to ensure that their pets were in pristine condition.

In order to provide our wonderful fur parents with some guidance, we had a chat with Andrea, co-owner of Shaggy Wagon. She shared some valuable tips on how to do DIY grooming, along with some things to take note of before you start out!

Tell us a little bit more about yourself and Shaggy Wagon!

Well I’m a crazy dog lady & have so much love to give to the animals! I was a makeup artist for 15years plus working in the office for my family and one day my (now) husband Rei saw how much I love animals and ask me, what does Singapore don’t have for pets.

I said a physical mobile grooming vehicle like in the states. Where we bring the grooming to your door step. So that’s how shaggy wagon was born.

But unfortunately due to the restrictions Singapore have, the wagon has to go on hold for now. However, we have Shaggy Hangout to provide all the pets in Singapore with our love!

Personally, I believe in the organic way of creating a comfortable environment for the pets before, during & after a grooming session.

What attracted you to the dog grooming business?

I grew up with dogs all my life, their well being has always been my priority. I have send my dogs for grooming and always thought there should be a way I can let the dogs hangout and enjoy themselves before their turn to be groomed and after, Instead of a cage system, but I would say cage systems is done to prevent accidents among the dogs which is not wrong too. Every groomer have their ways, but I’m sure they always mean well.

For Shaggy, we would want the fur kids to have fun before their groom. More importantly the team and groomer to interact with them before we start. So the pets do feel more at ease and don’t feel stressed out.
We will take note of the dogs health issues or past injuries on their record card, and work around what is more comfortable for the fur kid.

For first time pet owners, what are some important things to note when choosing a groomer (for both big and small dogs)?

Hmm, there is no difference for a big or small dog to a groomer.
More importantly, you can check with the groomers if they have groomed the breed that you have, to ensure they understand what your dog needs the best. Another important point is to always let the groomers know of any health or behaviour issues of the dog, so you can find a groomer that can provide the right way to handle and care for your pet.

What are the differences between grooming smaller dogs and bigger dogs?

Actually there is no difference, both still need the same amount of patience and care. The only difference is the time frame required for grooming due to their sizes, or if the dogs needs more time due to health or behaviour.

How did Circuit Breaker affect the way you ran your business?

Yea, we couldn’t operate due to lockdown, it was beyond our control. But it was for the best for the people! When lockdown was over it was our job to help all the dogs who were lacking a proper grooming and pampering session.

What are some common mistakes first time pet owners should avoid when trying to groom their pets at home?

Nail trimming is definitely a common error. Don’t cut their nails too deep of the quick. On many instances, when the trim is so deep they actually do remember the pain, and it affects their future grooming experiences. Expressing anal glands without knowledge – expressing anal glands without knowing the right way, may hurt or rupture your pets anal gland.

Brushing your pets fur is also another one – always brush your pets if the breed needs daily brushing, and be sure to brush them in layers. If the fur becomes matted, it can cause irritate their skin and even cause more serious skin issues.

Just picture a rubber band on your finger tied up, which cuts off circulation. Pets will get the same feeling. When matts are released the blood will start to circulate again, which could lead to the itching of skin, inflammation, or even hematoma’s the ears.

What are some things pet owners ought to know when grooming their pet at home for the first time?

Make sure to always visit your friendly groomers for tips before you perform DIY grooming! Also, having monthly visits to the groomer will eventually help your pet become accustomed to strangers and aid their social skills.

What do you love the most about your job?

What I love? I love it all, their company, grooming them, getting to know them, talking to them like kids, learning along the way what can be improved for each individual dog personality.

Because they they are not just a dog, they are like my kids.
_____

THE WOOF AGENCY would like to thank Andrea & Shaggy Wagon for sharing these insights for all pawrents!

Enjoyed this article? Let us know what else you’d like to read about in the comments below!

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Brand Highlights Community Stories

Groomers with transportation? Yes please!

Travelling with a pet in Singapore is definitely not easy. But that should not stop you from bringing your pets for grooming! Check out these following groomers in Singapore which provide transportation for your pet!

1. Pawmises

You may have seen really familiar pictures on Instagram, with different furkids enjoying the gentle handling by the staff from Pawmises. Pawmises offer basic and full grooming, along with various spa options.

? Grooms dogs, cats, rabbits & guinea pigs
? 1-way transportation at $25, 2-way transportation at $45
?502 MacPherson Road Singapore, Singapore 368204
? More info here

2. Pawcious Style

If you don’t already know Baoma from Pawcious Style, then you are definitely missing out! Apart from regular grooming and styling, Pawcious Style is also known for fur dyeing. Time to add a little zazzle to your pet’s look for Christmas!

? Grooms dogs, cats and small animals
? 2-way transportation ranges between $15-$45
?403 Sembawang Road Singapore, Singapore 758384
? More info here

3. Shaggy Wagon

Founded by the very people who understand you, the wellness of your pets, and the importance of your time. Shaggy Wagon is created to work around your schedule. That means you don’t have to spend long hours travelling or waiting for the groomers!

? Grooms dogs and cats
? 1-way transportation at $10 for grooming, 1-way transportation at $20 for daycare
?2 Tai Thong Crescent #01-13 S(347629)
? More info here

4. Pawpykisses

Meet the dedicated team of experienced pet stylist catering professional pet styling skills to all pet parents. Pawpykisses’ pet transport services are free for more than 20+ locations islandwide in Singapore as well!

? Grooms dogs and cats
? Free for selected areas, otherwise chargeable between $15-$25
?238 Balestier Road #01-03 Singapore, Singapore 329701
? More info here

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Brand Highlights Community Stories

7 Paws – Known for grooming skittish dogs

With the amassed groomers you find on Facebook or Instagram, it is not easy to find one which you can trust. Especially when you own a skittish or fearful pet, or one which absolutely HATES grooming. #beentheredonethat

Meet 7 Paws, a small team of 2 humble groomers located at Serangoon. Known for grooming skittish dogs and Singapore Specials, we can just tell that they are superb at handling various types of dogs. However, note that prices are not fixed and begin from $35, depending on the breed and temperament.

7 Paws Facebook

“We groom skittish or fearful dogs”

Have you been turned down by groomers due to your dog’s behaviour? At 7 Paws, the groomers are confident in handling different dogs without compromising their welfare as well as the safety of the staff. Rest assured that they are highly experienced and patient, with nearly half of their customers being fearful dogs.

First, the groomer will find out about the dog’s breed and temperament from the owner. Next, they will identify the trigger which makes the pet uncomfortable during the grooming session and work about it.

7 Paws Facebook

“We do take Singapore Specials as well”

Just because they were once strays does not mean that grooming is unnecessary. 7 Paws are highly experienced in handling Singapore Specials and have worked with different shelters to provide many Singapore Specials their first ever groom.

It’s time to pamper your little special furkid with a relaxing bath, a proper pawdicure and a good ear cleanse!

7 Paws Facebook

“We do non-GA tartar removal”

Poor dental health have been linked to heart diseases in canines. It is crucial to keep up with your dog’s dental health with regular tartar removal. 7 Paws is currently the only known groomer which provides tartar removal services without the use of general anesthesia. This is especially useful for dogs who are not able to go under general anesthesia due to health reasons.


Question: My dog is not comfortable with other pets, how will it go?

7 Paws respects the decision of every customer. For pet owners who wish to separate their dogs for reasons including behavioural issues or personal preferences, do inform them beforehand and they will make the necessary arrangements. Generally dogs will not be crated, unless requested or when safety is compromised. Pet owners will be informed about it as well.

Question: Is tartar removal without general anesthesia really effective?

Non-GA tartar removal should only be used as a form of maintenance for dental health. Do consult a vet if you wish to explore dental scaling under general anesthesia. 7 Paws recommends doing occasional tartar removal along with dental scaling with the vet to keep your pet’s dental health in top condition.

Question: It is inconvenient for me to bring my pet over to Serangoon just for grooming. Any other options?

7 Paws provide transport services for pets islandwide at only $10 per way! That’s even more affordable than a Grab ride from Jurong to Orchard ? 7 Paws will head over to your pickup location and bring your pet over to their grooming outlet. You may choose to pick up your pet at the store or opt for return transport.

It was a joy speaking to Josephine from 7 Paws and learning about how dedicated and knowledgeable they are in the grooming scene.

7 Paws is located at 468 Serangoon and are closed on Tuesdays. Make a booking with these amazing groomers and let the team pamper your furkid!