One of my clients is moving to Texas. Her husband got a job and they are transferring. Boo Hoo!

I featured her dog in blog post “Poof the Pomeranian“,  whom I absolutely adore. She is quite extraordinary not only because she is so pretty and cute but, because she only has three legs. She was “born that way” 🙂

Not only is my client moving to Texas but, she recently found out that she is pregnant. Needless to say, she has a lot on her plate. She also owns two more dogs and a great cat named Balloon. She is very nervous about another groomer grooming Poof ( Poof has only known me as her groomer ) and so I extended a free lesson today. This was my farewell gift to her and Poof.

There was no furniture in the apartment so we sat on the living room floor resting against a wall with pillows. We were relaxed as I taught her slowly how to use a slicker brush and to completely comb Poof with a groomers comb. I would do one side and then she would do the other. Poof is quite small and fragile and has hair for days. Her coat is amazing; very thick undercoat with beautiful red/brown/black guard hairs. The lesson over three hours just to brush/comb her out, she was quite matted. We did take a few breaks and allowed her to rest. After that I bathed/conditioned her and put her on my grooming table to begin the drying process. After she was part way dry, we went back to the floor where she could be comfortable in our laps as we finished the drying process. Blow drying completely and thoroughly is so important not only for the final look but, also to be sure that all mats are removed and that the comb can 100% get through ever square inch of her. This is the true test of a well groomed dog.

I taught my client how to really manipulate a slicker brush and comb in the all hard to reach places i.e. armpits, genital areas/inside thighs and behind ears so that there was not one mat on her. Even though at times, she was hesitant to use pressure with the comb she began to master the confidence with each stroke of the comb. I know with practice she will be able to keep Poof well groomed.

Saying goodbye is always a little sad especially when the client and the dog are terrific but, life is always moving forward and I wish them a wonderful future in their new home with their animals and new baby!