If the animal is scared
Fear of the clippers, table, or dryer isn't «bad temperament». This kind of visit is handled differently: slower, in shorter sessions, without trying to do everything at once.
The first visit can be a get-acquainted one: the pet comes in, sniffs the table and the groomer, hears the clippers — and goes home. The haircut next time goes much calmer.
We split the work into 10–15 minute sessions. Between them — water, a break, a chance to stand on the floor. That's why this visit takes longer than usual.
We don't give sedatives — that's a vet's call, not a groomer's. If the animal panics, we stop the treatment and arrange another day.
For anxious pets we keep the first morning slots, when the salon is empty: fewer unfamiliar smells, voices, and dogs behind the wall.
What helps from the owner's side
Small things the groomer can't do for you, but that change the whole visit:
- a walk before the salon — the pet arrives tired, not full of extra energy;
- don't feed heavily within 3 hours before the visit;
- bring a favourite toy or bedding with a familiar scent;
- say goodbye calmly and briefly — long farewells read as "something bad happened";
- tell us in advance about sore spots, surgeries, age and illnesses.