Blackwood Valley Pet Grooming Service

26/04/2022

30/03/2022

Hello just posting to let you know I now stock the 2kg rolls of the Combo Raw Dog Food. Ideal if you have one or more large dogs.
Also available are the 3kg boxes of 12 x 250gm Satchels.
If you have been considering a change in your dog's diet or your dog suffers from allergies or weight problems you are welcome to call me on 97611404 or you may like to have a look at the Big Dog Raw Pet Food site.

https://www.bigdogpetfoods.com/raw-food-for-dogs

24/12/2021

I would like to wish Everyone a Very Merry Christmas. Have a wonderful Day with the ones you love and those Beautiful pets that make life so special. Thank you for your business throughout the year and all the best for 2022.
I am having a break and will be on Annual leave until the 17th of January.
If you are in need of Barf Dog food in this time leave me a message and I can organise a pick up time.
Merry Christmas from Stacey and Gus.

04/10/2021

Hello and Happy Monday. The weeks are flying by and Christmas is coming fast.
December is filling up and I will be having a few weeks off in January so if you think you want a appointment before I Finnish for the year please book in soon.
Have a great week everyone.
Enjoy the happy snaps.

19/09/2021

Well I'm back from holidays and the feet have hit the ground running. Lots of dogs and cats waiting to be done. So much so I didn't even get time to take many dog photos. So I thought I would share some of my holiday snaps.
I had a great break full of wildflowers, camp fires, stary nights, old mines, old pubs, big rocks, good friends fresh air and beautiful sunshine.
Holiday over it is all go in the dog grooming department until the end of the year. Starts getting very busy from here on in especially in December. So might pay to get the diaries out and work out when you're pet may need a clip and book in asap to avoid a wait or missing out before Christmas.
Good to be home and I shall see you all soon.
Stace.

26/08/2021

Wonderful way to Finish up before going on annual leave.
I will return to work on the 13th of September. Please remember it starts getting busy heading into spring /Summer so please allow plenty of notice and consider booking in sooner rather than later especially if you're wanting a December clip. The two weeks before Christmas fills up fast.
Take care everyone, enjoy the happy snaps and thanks again for your continued support.
See you in the Spring.☀🌻😃

22/08/2021

Hello, this is the last in my little grooming tips series and is basically a Summary of the last six weeks information. I hope it has been of some benefit to some of you.
I am off on Annual leave from the 26th of August until the 13th of September. If you think you would like to book your pet in for when I get back your welcome to call me through the week on 97611404 and we will find a spot that might suit.
Untill then stay safe and I will see you in the Spring. 😃🌻☀

Basic Grooming Tips (Part 7)
In Summery
Start grooming early in your pets life and slowly if you can. When your dog is a puppy try to have a regular grooming spot, either on a sturdy table, the washing machine or if your dog is too large for this just a particular area on a lead. Being off the ground is an advantage as it is easier for your body and the ground is their area where they play and run about, whereas up on a table or in one spot they learn that for now it is Grooming time. Dogs do not like the slippery feeling of a table or bath under their feet, so use a Rubber mat or a towel to give them some traction. Plenty of treats during and after each task always helps.
Even dogs with short, low-maintenance coats need regular brushing, bathing and nail trimming. Regardless of breed, your dog will need regular brushing to keep its coat shiny and glossy and help to prevent matting. The amount of brushing per week depends on your dog’s coat length and texture. Dogs with longer coats may also need clipping and hair trimming.
Even short-haired dogs’ benefit from a bath a few times a year to remove dirt, grime, and excess grease from their coats. Most dogs should be bathed at least every 1-3 months. No matter how often you bathe your dog, you should always use a shampoo made specifically for dogs. Humans have a different pH than dogs, so human shampoo (even baby shampoo) is too harsh for dog skin. It is a good idea before bathing place cotton balls in your dog’s ear canals to prevent water from getting in, which may lead to an ear infection. It is natural to see a little bit of dirt on the cotton ball after swiping the inside of your dog’s ear, but if the cotton ball comes out gunky or stinky, your dog likely has an ear infection and needs a trip to the vet.
Severe matting is actually a lot more serious than many people realise: once the mats are embedded the pulling can become so intense it can cut off blood supply to extremities, deny regular air circulation to the skin, cause pain, and even restrict movement. Mats can also form around the dog’s buttock area causing the matt to trap faeces, which causes discomfort, irritation, and infection. Badly matted hair can cause a dog to lick or bite themselves at the source of irritation, which may result in skin infections. Foreign bodies like grass seeds can hide inside a matted coat and can even burrow into the skin to cause an abscess.
Ultimately, friction is the key cause of knots and mats: when your pets’ hair or fur becomes tangled, it traps fur in a clump. There are many factors that can influence why a dog’s coat can become matted. An example of this is swimming. Try to ensure your dog is thoroughly brushed and dried after swimming to prevent this. The season can affect how easily your dog's coat mats Dogs are more likely to develop mats and knots when their coats are shedding, which happens seasonally. Skin infections such as a flea infestation or yeast infection can cause pain and irritation, so dogs or cats will lick or bite themselves at the source of irritation which will cause matting in the area and may result in more severe skin infections. Remember, nothing but regularly brushing especially longhaired or double coated dogs or keeping your dog clipped reasonably short, will prevent matting from becoming a problem.

There is quite an art to keeping a long-haired dog or cat groomed properly but the most common mistakes is just brushing over the top of the coat, thus only tickling the surface and not getting down to the skin where the matting begins. while Brushing over the top of your dog or cat may look like it is well groomed and pretty on top, the underneath layer of hair can be still matted. What you need to do is hold the dog hair up or back and brush a little bit out from the skins surface at a time. This way, you can work through the coat slowly and in order, getting the entire length of the hair and being able to see where you have been. This applies for double coated dogs such as a Samoyed or a Corgi as well. Again, regular brushing will make this job easier.
Nail trimming is one part of grooming that every dog needs. Long nails can cause problems walking, arthritis, and the nail can even curve into the pad of the dog’s foot causing pain and infection. In general, you should plan on trimming your dog’s nails once a month. Some dogs will need more- or less-frequent nail trimming.
Dogs with longer coats may need clipping and hair trimming. You may wish to schedule regular appointments with a professional groomer for a good going over every 6 to 12 weeks dependent on type of coat your pet has and the amount of time you spend attending to it. Pet groomers are incredibly talented, but they will not risk putting your dog through the pain of pulling on overly matted fur. The pets care and needs should always come before the owners wants and expectations.
Good luck keeping your pet happy, healthy and beautiful.

15/08/2021

Basic Grooming Tips (Part 5)
What is matted dog hair?

Matted dog hair occurs when the loose/dead hairs become tangled together with live hairs, forming a mass of hair. Mats can form in both the outer coat, as well as the deeper undercoat. They occur mainly in areas where there is a lot of movement or friction, for example under the collar, behind the ears, or in the armpits.
Severe matting is actually a lot more serious than many people realise: once the mats are embedded the pulling can become so intense it can cut off blood supply to extremities, deny regular air circulation to the skin, cause pain, and even restrict movement. Mats can also form around the dog’s buttock area causing the matt to trap faeces, which causes discomfort, irritation, and infection. Badly matted hair can cause a dog to lick or bite themselves at the source of irritation, which may result in skin infections. Foreign bodies like grass seeds can hide inside a matted coat and can even burrow into the skin to cause an abscess. Regularly brushing your dog, especially if they are long-haired prevents matting from becoming a problem.
Sometimes severe mats form in the undercoat and are concealed because of a heavy outer coat. If left completely unattended, a pet’s fur can become matted to such an extent that the only recourse is to shave the entire dog. Pet groomers are incredibly talented, but they will not risk putting your dog through pain trying to groom a badly matted coat. The pets care and needs always comes before the owners wants and expectations.
Remember, nothing but regularly brushing especially longhaired or double coated dogs or keeping your dog clipped reasonably short, will prevent matting from becoming a problem. If you do not get the time to regular groom properly your pet is better off clipped even in the winter and provided with a jacket. Jackets can become quite the accessorie.

Last week's grooming tip was how to groom your pet properly, you may want to have a read if you missed it.
Thanks and enjoy the sunshine. 😃🌻

15/08/2021

This has been another sad week, so many of us have been saddened by the passing of Chris's two beautiful companions Jenny and Ruby.
Chris has been a very special client of mine since I started nearly 25 years ago. I have had the privilege to have clipped all of his lovely dogs and the honor of Chris's friendship and support in that time.
Chris my heart and sorrow goes out to you as I know is the same for all that know you. May it not be too long before you have another special friend cuddled on your lap. Your too much of a beautiful person and special dog owner not to have one in your life. ❤

08/08/2021

Hello, I hope everyone has been having a nice weekend and enjoyed the bit of sunshine we had. Here is this week's grooming tip. I have included a few photos to try to explain the correct way to brush a long haired pet. Hope it helps and feel free to call me on 97611404 to discuss your pets grooming needs further.

Basic Grooming Tips (Part 4)
Brushing
Regardless of breed, your dog or cat will need regular brushing to keep their coat healthy, glossy and help to prevent matting. Most short-haired dogs shed at least a little bit. Using a good brush can remove loose hair and spread your dog’s natural oils through his coat for a healthy shine. My go to favourite brush on any dog is called a Slicker Brush, especially if your dog has a lot of undercoat. There are many tools on the market these days so best to visit a good pet supply store and have a look and see what may work best for you and your type of pet. Remember no type of fancy Brush will work well unless used regularly. The amount of brushing per week depends on your dog’s coat length and texture. Longhaired breeds like golden retrievers and collie dogs will need more frequent brushing (at least once a week, if not every other day), while shorthaired breeds like greyhounds or Jack Russells may need a good brushing only every other week.
For longhaired dogs, badly matted hair can cause pain. Dogs will lick or bite themselves at the source of irritation, which may result in skin infections. Matted hair can also prevent the skin from breathing and result in other skin infections and over heating. Foreign bodies like grass seeds can hide inside a matted coat and can even burrow into the skin to cause an abscess. Regularly brushing your longhaired dog prevents matting from becoming a problem.Shorthaired dogs’ benefit from brushing, too. Brushing keeps the natural oils flowing, removes loose hair, dirt and debris from your dog’s coat, extending the time between baths.
There is quite an art to keeping a long-haired dog or cat groomed properly but the most common mistakes is just brushing over the top of the coat, thus only tickling the surface and not getting down to the skin where the matting begins. while Brushing over the top of your dog or cat may look like it is well groomed and pretty on top, the underneath layer of hair can be still matted. (See photos for a example. )
What you need to do is hold the dog hair up or back and brush a little bit out from the skins surface at a time. This way, you can work through the coat slowly and in order, getting the entire length of the hair and being able to see where you have been. This applies for double coated dogs such as a Samoyed or a Corgi as well.Again, regular brushing will make this job easier. Dogs with longer coats may even need clipping and hair trimming. If you are not getting time to groom your pet properly you could consider keeping them clipped through winter and putting a coat on them. Don't forget to take that coat off and give the hair a good brush underneath though, otherwise the coat may cause knotting.
You may wish to schedule regular appointments with a professional groomer – especially when it comes to clipping and trimming your dog’s hair.

01/08/2021

Basic Grooming Tips (Part 3)
Bathing and Ears

Some people never wash their dogs, and some people wash them every week. Ideally, you should aim for something in the middle.
Even short-haired dogs’ benefit from a bath a few times a year to remove dirt, grime, and excess grease from their coats. Most dogs should be bathed at least every 1-3 months.
If you have anything other than a short-haired dog, you should be sure to brush and detangle your dog before the bath. Water makes mats and tangles worse, even if you use conditioner.
No matter how often you bathe your dog, you should always use a shampoo made specifically for dogs. Humans have a different pH than dogs, so human shampoo (even baby shampoo) is too harsh for dog skin.
Generally, you should try not to bathe your dog more than once a month. If you do, be sure to use a very gentle shampoo made specifically for dogs. Hypoallergenic or oatmeal shampoos are great choices. Over washing can dry out your dog’s skin and coat. It is a good idea before bathing place cotton balls in your dog’s ear canals to prevent water from getting in, which may lead to an ear infection. You should clean out your dog’s ears at least once a month with an ear cleaner made for dogs, on a cotton ball. If your dog is a regular swimmer consider buying an ear cleaner that also helps dry out the ear canal and use at least once a week or a little after swimming each time. It is natural to see a little bit of dirt on the cotton ball after swiping the inside of your dog’s ear, but if the cotton ball comes out gunky or stinky, your dog likely has an ear infection and needs a trip to the vet.
Ear infections can be painful, so if you notice any of the following changes or behaviours, take your dog to your vet for a check-up:
The inside of the ears is inflamed or moist.
The ears smell odd (often, the smell of a dog ear infection is sweet).
Your dog shakes its head or scratches at its ears.
The ears contain more or a different kind of discharge than usual (a little wax is normal).
Dogs with very hairy floppy ears benefit from having the inside of the ears kept short to allow them to breath. Grass seeds can also be a big problem for your pet so be very visual when it comes time for the seeds to be drying off and dropping.

Winter can make it very hard to bath your dog with it being so cold and trying to get them dry. Your Very welcome to let them come hang out with me for a hour or so where they will get a warm hydro bath and dryed off with my industrial dryer.
For appointments and inquiries please phone 97611404.
Few happy snaps from my week. Such a pleasure being in their presence. 💕🙏🐶

25/07/2021

Just a courtesy message to let people know I will be on annual leave from the 26th of August until the 13th of September. Please consider booking in asap if you think your pet may need a groom before or just after I get back as we will be heading in to Spring and it starts getting busy.
Thanks and I hope you all have a lovely week.

25/07/2021

Hello, I hope everyone has had a good week. Here is this week's grooming tip. I hope you find it useful and feel free to share with anyone that may benefit. Have a wonderful last week in July, good luck staying warm and dry.

Basic Grooming Tips (Part 2)
Nails.
Nail trimming is one part of grooming that every dog needs. Long nails can cause problems walking, arthritis, and the nail can even curve into the pad of the dog’s foot causing pain and infection.
In general, you should plan on trimming your dog’s nails once a month. Some dogs will need more- or less-frequent nail trimming.
For example, dogs that walk on hard surfaces like sidewalks or asphalt frequently will often wear down their nails and need less trimming (apart from their dew claws that is the little claw halfway up the side of the paw). Dogs that go for shorter walks or only run on a softer surface usually require nail trimming more often.
Dogs have a vein in their nails called a quick that will bleed and hurt if you cut it too short. In dogs that do not get their nails cut frequently enough, the vein can grow exceptionally long, so you can only take a little bit off at a time. If that is the case, trimming a little bit off your dog’s nails every couple of weeks may encourage the vein to shrink back into the nail.
Even cats can have there nails trimmed especially if they are indoor cats only. Might help save a bit of furniture!

Please feel free to contact me if you would like your pets nails trimmed. 97611404. The cost is only $5.00/$10.00, dosnt take long and could save you a vet bill.

18/07/2021

I often get asked alot of grooming questions with regards what is best for your pets needs. So I have put together a 7 part Grooming tip series that I will post over the coming weeks. Together with a few happy snaps just to excite it up a bit.
Please feel free to like and follow my page so as not to miss a series if you want.
For more information or inquires to discuss your pets needs further please phone me on 97611404.
Ok, enjoy the read

Grooming Tips (Part 1)

Even dogs with short, low-maintenance coats need regular brushing, bathing and nail trimming. Dogs with longer coats may also need clipping and hair trimming. While you may wish to schedule regular appointments with a professional groomer – especially when it comes to clipping and trimming your dog’s hair – these tips will help you establish an at-home grooming routine with your dog.
The most important thing to remember when it comes to grooming your pet is that you want your pet to enjoy – or at least not hate – the grooming process. Start early and slowly if you can. When your dog is a puppy try to have a regular grooming spot, either on a sturdy table, the washing machine or if your dog is too large for this just a particular area on a lead. Being off the ground is an advantage as it is easier for your body and the ground is their area where they play and run about, whereas up on a table or in one spot they learn that for now it is Grooming time. Dogs do not like the slippery feeling of a table or bath under their feet, so use a Rubber mat or a towel to give them some traction. Plenty of treats during and after each task always helps.
If you have anything other than a short-haired dog, you should be sure to brush and detangle your dog before a bath. Water makes mats and tangles worse, even if you use conditioner.
If your Pet hates the entire grooming process, try breaking things up into smaller pieces and do everything over several days. On a long-haired dog, always start with the areas that knot the quickest like their ears, tail, back legs and tummy. If you start on the easy knot free area first, by the time you get to the hard parts you and your Pet could have had enough. Starting on these areas keeping the ears and tail knot free, will allow for a little bit of your dog’s character to be left longer if all else requires clipping back short because the matting has gone beyond grooming out.
Breaking the grooming process up into several different sessions could make it more tolerable for both owner and Pet..
Follow my page for next weeks grooming tips.

16/07/2021

Welcome to the beautiful Luna. She was such a good girl for her first time clip and so cute with such lovely owners. Thank you for making my day. 😃🌻

12/07/2021

One of the hardest things I have to do with my job is say goodbye to my special customers and their beautiful pets either when they go to that big doggy heaven or leave town. Thank you so much Michelle for entrusting me with your dogs over many years and I wish you all the best with your move. Shall miss, you all. 😢
On the other hand one of the things I love the most is when a new little one comes into the scene. Welcome cute little Mylo. 😊💕🐶

11/07/2021

It's Times like this you need Blackwood Valley Pet Grooming. Enjoy. 😃

18/06/2021

Hello everyone, sorry I haven't posted for a while, I thought I was finally moving with the times getting a business page up and running but I think I'm supposed to post on it maybe? 😂 Anyway every six months isn't to bad is it? Just wanted to let you know my winter business hours are Monday's, Tuesday's and Thursday's by appointment but generally from 8.00 am to 3.00 pm. Welcome to leave your Pet longer or for the day if you have to work. Also welcome to just pop in anytime while I'm here to get your dogs nails trimmed. Still only $5.00 but probably should go up soon. 😊
A reminder that I stock Big Dog Raw Pet Food, the link is attached. Fantastic page that tells you all about the benefits of feeding your dog a raw diet. Stay warm, and promise to post again in at least a few months😂 Bye for now. Just a few happy snaps below. Stacey
https://www.bigdogpetfoods.com/raw-food-for-dogs

24/12/2020

To all my beautiful customer's and their pets, I would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and thank you for your continued support.
I hope that 2021 is a great year for everyone and look forward to seeing you in it.
I resume work on the 14th of January but if you are after Big Dog Baff pet food or would like to make a appointment for when I start back please phone me on 97611404, leave a message with your phone number and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
Thanks again and Merry Christmas from Stacey and Gus.

16/12/2020

Does anyone want some guees or know of anyone that may? They are great lawn mowers, four guess are apparently equal to one sheep. 😃

14/11/2020

It's that time of year, dogs everywhere, so much fun. I just love my job, thank you beautiful customer's for entrusting me with your beloved pet. 😊🙏💕

20/10/2020

Good morning,just a friendly reminder that it is a busy time of year for dog grooming and December is filling up fast so if you are thinking your pet will need clipping before Christmas please consider booking in as soon as possible. Still have plenty of spots left in November.
Have a wonderful day and enjoy this beautiful weather.

21/09/2020

Had a great couple of weeks with some special pooches. Please don't forget it starts to get busy for dog grooming this time of year with all the grass seeds and warmer days coming on. You may want to have a think about when you would like to get your pet groomed and book in advance to avoid disappointment or a long wait, especially if you are wanting a clip just before Christmas. Thanks again for your continued support. Happy Spring everyone, Enjoy . 🐶🌻☀

03/09/2020

Especially for you Veenu. Gus photo bombing again. 😆😘

02/09/2020

Managed to get Milly and poppy dry inbetween showers. Gussy Boy had a great day.
Spring is here and it will start to get busy for dog grooming so have a think when you may like your pet groomed and please consider to book in, sooner rather than later.
Have a nice afternoon.
Stacey.

17/08/2020

Just a reminder that I stock BigDog Raw Pet food and leading raw puppy food. If you have a new pup why don't you consider starting him out on a natural raw diet. See information below or look the link below.
Leading Raw Puppy is a high quality, natural raw dog food made from fresh meat and seasonal vegetables. This puppy recipe is formulated to meet the needs of your growing pup, supporting the development of their muscles and bones.
Suitable for: Puppies under 12 months old

Contains: 12 Individual Portions

FEATURES AND BENEFITS
Supports the growth and development of your puppy
All natural raw ingredients
Naturally occuring vitamins and minerals
Ingredients
Fresh meat trimmings (beef ,lamb, chicken), ground bones and cartilage (beef, lamb, chicken), heart (beef, lamb) kidneys (beef, lamb), liver (beef, lamb), beef fat, fresh seasonal green vegetables, naturally occurring vitamins and minerals.

17/08/2020

It's been a while since I have done a post but couldn't resist showing these two off. This time of year is when cats tend to start knotting up a bit especially underneath. These beautiful Rag Doll cats had there belly's, crutch and under armpits clipped with a full groom to help get any undercoat out. Hopefully this will prevent any major knots. If you're having trouble keeping on top of your cat or dogs grooming maybe you could consider the same. Happy for you to call and talk through a few options.
Have a great week.

15/06/2020

Fell in love with this beautifull gentle Boy the other day.

15/06/2020

Exciting news from Bigdog Raw Pet food.
For more information on their full range look them up on there web site.
https://www.bigdogpetfoods.com/

12/05/2020

Had a fantastic day hanging out with these guys yesterday. I am so lucky to still, after over 30 years dog grooming still love what Im doing and going to work. Thank you everyone for keeping me going. Had a few newbies in for baths, young Wombat and Fred, they made my day. 😀