My name is Kate. I am an animal care professional with 15 years experience.
(18)
*Trying to get all of the boxes and Amazon packages to the trash*
Me, a fear free pet sitter - excuse me, oops... coming through...oh, I don't want to step on you... please move, just gonna shimmy by, these boxes aren't for you guys, sorry...oops...excuse me..oops
The dogs - *doing everything BUT getting out of the way*
I only dropped 3 things, tripped once, and nearly broke an ankle trying not to step on anyone.
Oh Mango, you silly girl.
Checking in on a client's red footed tortoise today. Zelda is the coolest tort in town. She loves 90's grunge, basking under her big window, and dining pool side with her favorite salads. She even smiles for selfies!
What is FEAR FREE GROOMING? Fear free grooming is philosophy of grooming that does not involve fear, force or coercion. Essentially, I am utilizing many tools from my positive reinforcement tool kit to help dogs through the grooming experience in the least stressful way as possible. This means that dogs with severe grooming trauma or dogs that show high leves of FAS (fear, anxiety, stress) are not good candidates as I do not use any force or restraint to perform the groom. If your dog is extremely fearful of the grooming process, we can work on some behaviors that can help.
If you would like to know more about Fear Free grooming, please send me a message.
*I cannot accept dogs over 30 lbs at this time.*
We still have space left for December 1st through the 15th. Text to reserve a spot today. Don't forget to add a grooming appointment to your boarding reservation so your pup will go home looking feeling their best!
Text us today for more info
(602) 657-5942
It's giving old Russian grandmother!
All of my happy hoodies are in the wash so we had to improvise. Milah likes to wear something over her ears while I blow dry her after the bath . She's such a good girl for our FEAR FREE grooming sessions and she always looks adorable when we're done.
Jack loves the slide! This is his favorite spot to survey the devastation he causes after wrestling with Lala.
It's been awhile since I've posted last. Keeping up with all these puppers is work! Jack wanted to make sure that everyone saw this cool stump that we found. He was so happy to investigate it and test out it's "stumpness". Free enrichment can come in all shapes and sizes. This week it's the shape of a tree, weighs like 50 lbs, and was found in my neighbors bulky pick up pile, lol.
My new friend Bella is visiting today for her first of several "grooming readiness" training. Using shaping and positive reinforcement, I'm helping to introduce Bella to each part of the grooming experience in small, and manageable doses. Today we are hanging out in the bathroom and getting used to the tub without water.
Do you have a new puppy that requires alot of grooming? Message today to discuss or book their grooming readiness appointments!
Happy Sunday!
Milah dislikes having her head and neck blow dried. I can tell by her behavior, her previous groomer restrained her by holding her beard (a common technique to keep the head still), as this is also a sensitive area. Without struggle or restraint (just a little squeezable chicken) I am able to blow dry this area with minimal stress or discomfort. When she stops licking the treat, the blow drier goes away!
Of course, I am ever so thankful! 😅🐕
Just a pet sitter, trying to finish dog training school, distracted by the world's most cuddly dog duo.
Portrait of a Goodest Boi.
Is your dog this happy to see their groomer? Book today for a fear free grooming experience to help your dog feel as fabulous as they look!
My first official grooming pup was Milah! Although Milah gets groomed regularly (by another groomer) she finds several parts of the grooming experience to be uncomfortable. With the use of a happy hoodie and some chicken baby food/chicken treats, I was able to get her through the scary parts. We took short breaks to practice known behaviors (touch, sit, paw) and to cuddle and give kisses. Because I'm not rushed or under pressure like many regular groomers are, I can dedicate time to moving slowly and supporting Milah in ways that help her feel comfortable and confident throughout the experience.
Have questions about fear free grooming? Message the page for details or to book an appointment.
Happy National Bubble Bath Day! About A Dog is now offering Fear Free grooming sessions for existing clients only, at this time.
What is Fear Free grooming?
I will utilize techniques that aim to reduce a dog's fear, anxiety, and stress in regards to the grooming experience. Through the use of tools such as happy hoodies, lick mats, clicker training/treats, non-slip mats, comfort straps, and break times, your dog will be supported through all the steps of the grooming experience. This also means if that at any time, your dog begins to display fear, anxiety, or stress, I will end the session and try again later. In some cases this could also mean I will be unable to complete the full grooming session.
Your dog's comfort and safety are paramount. If your dog is unable to complete the groom in a single session, we can work on a plan to help get your dog more comfortable with the process through desensitization and counter-conditioning.
If your dog has had issues being handled or groomed before, it is likely they will not allow me to groom them. There will be dog's that are not good candidates for fear free grooming however, may be eligible for the fear free grooming therapy sessions.
Is there anything I don't do?
Ear plucking with forceps, brushing out felted mats or overly knotted coats, internal a**l gland expression, restraint of any kind to finish groom, muzzling, or use of harsh or aversive corrections to make your dog behave. We cannot currently accommodate dogs over 100 lbs.
Heavily matted dogs will be shaved as short as is necessary to safely remove mats, no exceptions. Brushing and detangling matted coats is painful and very stressful. I'm happy to show you how to maintain your pet's coat so that they do not become matted inbetween grooming. Longer coated dog's should be on a grooming schedule to maintain a manageable length. There is no discount if I'm unable to perform a part of the grooming such as nail trim or trimming face/feet etc. I will do my best to achieve as close to a full service as possible without causing your dog to become stressed or fearful.
How do I schedule a grooming?
Grooming can be scheduled by texting me or messaging the page. Appointments are limited and dogs will be here for a minimum of 4 hours. If you'd like your pet to receive daycare (before and after their grooming session), it will be at the regular rate of $35/day.
This service will be offered to existing clients only. If you are not an existing client and are interested in utilizing my grooming services, I will require your dog to attend a halfday of daycare (at the rate of $25 - seperate from the grooming day) so that I can determine if they're a good match for my services. Additionally, you'll need to fill out our grooming questionnaire with your pet's grooming history so that I am able to tailor the grooming experience to their needs. All dogs are required to have proof of current vaccinations and be friendly with other dogs. If at any time I feel your dog is too stressed to continue or has become fractious or un-handleable, you will be called to pick up your pet immediately. Pets will need to be picked up with in half an hour of the pick up window or a late fee will be charged unless they are staying for daycare or boarding.
It should be noted : To avoid the common issue of trigger stacking, grooming should not be scheduled within a day or 2 of vet appointments, group training, a big change to their routine, or close to another stressful event such as a stormy day or fireworks.
Services -
*Prices are based on size and service *
Bath ($50-$80)
(Bath, brush, and blow dry - short coated dogs only)
Bath & Tidy ($60-$100)
(nails, ears, bath, brush, blow dry, sani trim - medium to long coated dogs)
Full Groom ($80 - $150)
(Hair cut, nails, ears, bath, blow dry, and sani)
Therapy Grooming
(For dogs already averse to grooming process- prices and sessions will vary)
Puppy Grooming Great Start Program ($25/session - 1/2 hour sessions)
-Get your puppy used to the grooming process through a series of short handling sessions paired with high value treats and snuggles! I will slowly introduce grooming tools while pairing the experience with games and activities to help you new puppy feel safe & confident.
Late fee charge ($10)
*dogs on a grooming schedule will receive a discount for in-between tidy's while the full groom will remain the original price.
It's National "play outside day" but Tom would rather soak up the sunshine and show off his beautiful golden coat!
Hello and Happy New Year!
Firstly, I'd like to thank you for your continued support and referrals. I'm excited to provide some new opportunities for your pets throughout the coming year.
With that in mind, there will be a price increase which will go into effect March 1st, 2023 for boarding only. Boarding fees are increasing from $50/night to $60/night.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
What do you think they're talking about?
Anyone have a "helper" dog this holiday season? I had several!
We're taking the grrrr out of grooming! Stay tuned for details about our new fear free grooming services.
Us, trying to eat Christmas eve dinner with 7 boarding dogs in the house!
Happiest of birthdays to our favorite coffee colored pup, Cappacino! He had a great day wrestling with his friends and even brought goodie bags and cake to share. Jack was the only other dog that would sit nicely for pictures. Not pictured are Baxter, Ripley & LB.
This is something I do at my house to make it easier to show the dogs I like what they're doing. Dogs love hearing what they're doing right and if you tell them more often (with food) they'll practice doing things right more and won't have a much time to practice doing things wrong.
We sure are!
Monkey in the middle
AZ
Be the first to know and let us send you an email when About A Dog LLC posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
My new friend Bella is visiting today for her first of several "grooming readiness" training. Using shaping and positive reinforcement, I'm helping to introduce Bella to each part of the grooming experience in small, and manageable doses. Today we are hanging out in the bathroom and getting used to the tub without water. Do you have a new puppy that requires alot of grooming? Message today to discuss or book their grooming readiness appointments!
Milah dislikes having her head and neck blow dried. I can tell by her behavior, her previous groomer restrained her by holding her beard (a common technique to keep the head still), as this is also a sensitive area. Without struggle or restraint (just a little squeezable chicken) I am able to blow dry this area with minimal stress or discomfort. When she stops licking the treat, the blow drier goes away! #fearfree #fearfreecertifiedprofessional #fearfreegrooming #aboutadogaz #petsitter #petsittersofinstagram #doodlesofinstagram
My first official grooming pup was Milah! Although Milah gets groomed regularly (by another groomer) she finds several parts of the grooming experience to be uncomfortable. With the use of a happy hoodie and some chicken baby food/chicken treats, I was able to get her through the scary parts. We took short breaks to practice known behaviors (touch, sit, paw) and to cuddle and give kisses. Because I'm not rushed or under pressure like many regular groomers are, I can dedicate time to moving slowly and supporting Milah in ways that help her feel comfortable and confident throughout the experience. Have questions about fear free grooming? Message the page for details or to book an appointment. #fearfreegrooming #aboutadogaz #glendaleaz #petsittersofinstagram #groomersofinstagram #doggydaycare #dogboarding #doodlesofinstagram
I've really been slacking in the social media department lately. Please enjoy this video of Jack and Cappacino playing a high speed game of doggy duck duck goose while Tom expertly avoids getting knocked into next Tuesday. #boyswillbeboys #daycare #doggydaycare #dogboarding #glendaleaz #petsittersofinstagram #blacklabrador #labradorsofinstagram #doodlesofinstagram
BOOP ft. Jax
Friday vibes!
Galena gets lunch time enrichment! #doggydaycare #aboutadogaz #petsitter #fearfreecertifiedprofessional #enrichment #foraging #dogpuzzles #rhodesianridgeback
Angus is channeling his inner shark and chomping on this bone like it's an unsuspecting surfer. Happy shark week!
Your pups won't get treatment like this at big corporate dog boarding places. Miss Maya is thoroughly enjoying her time at About A Dog with her favorite person abd we will happily attend to her every whim! #personalizeddogboarding #beaglesofinstagram #snugglepup #doggydaycare #petsitter #petsittersofinstagram
It's hot and all these pups were getting restless so we decided to come outside for some water activities. I turned on the misters and gave them a big bowl full of ice cubes and frozen fruit and veggies. They loved munching on the crunchy ice and digging for the fruits and veggie chunks. They did a great job sharing and taking turns and hopefully will be ready to take a nap when we come inside. #summerfun #doggydaycare #dogboarding #puppiesofinstagram #labradorsofinstagram #doodlesofinstagram #bulliesofinstagram
Benji is hanging out today while his mom moves into a new place and Cappacino is boarding for a few days while his family goes on a vacation. They remember each other from the last time they were both here and were so excited to see each other this morning! #doggydaycare #dogboarding #petsitter #petsittersofinstagram #fearfreecertifiedprofessional #playtime #bestfriends #doodlesofinstagram #summerbreak #aboutadogaz #glendaleaz
Angus is back! He is having so much fun with his new friends Fred and Ginger, he didn't even notice completely falling of the couch. Oops! I've watched this video 30 times and I lol every time! #doggydaycare #dogboarding #glendaleaz #petsittersofinstagram #petsitting
LB (foster dog) is trying her hardest to impress boarding dog, Gracie. We've been fostering and rehabilitating LB since October. When she first came here she was shut down and terrified. We couldn't look at her, move too fast or even talk to her. She's come a very long way from cowering in her crate or jumping at the slightest noise to licking coffee creamer off my fingers every morning and bouncing around happily with her friends. She has a long way to go before she'll be adoptable but I'm optimistic that her "happily ever after" is out there somewhere. #fosterdog #feral #rescuerehab #rehabilitation #fearfreecertifiedprofessional #livingthedreamrescue #ellbee #busybee #bizbee #sheseriouslyhassomanynicknames
Follow up video to the 3 way tug game. #3waytugchampionship #doodlesofinstagram #labradorsofinstagram #fosterpup #aboutadogaz #glendaleaz #playtime #teamwork
Oh Angus! #doggydaycare #petsittersofinstagram #bulliesofinstagram #fearfreecertifiedprofessional #forcefree #aboutadogaz #glendaleaz
When you had too much fun at daycare and are too tired to go home #doggydaycare #petsitter #labradorsofinstagram #dogsofinstagram #glendaleaz #aboutadogaz
Lala is a great friend to puppies. She's helping Emmy learn how to play, share toys and take cues. She's also teaching her how to take breaks which is the most important part of playing! Thanks for your help Lala! #dogboarding #doggydaycare #playtime #glendaleaz #petsittersofinstagram #labradorsofinstagram #positivereinforcement #positivevibesonly
Follow up video. After we practiced a bit, Zoe got in the zone. She understands that she can tell me any time to stop touching her. I believe that, combined with the gentle touch and slow breathing, helped her to self regulate and calm down. When we first started working together, these anxious feelings typically led to overzealous jumping, demand barking, and redirecting at the other dog in the household. Now, she can adjust when she's feeling anxious and with the help of her humans can self soothe instead of act out. #fearfreecertifiedprofessional #rescuerehab #doggydaycare #specialneedsdogcare
Because Zoe is nervous we practice consenting touch. It's a very subtle behavior, but every time she lip licks I stop touching and wait for her to consent by lifting her paw or leaning in towards me. This helps her understand that I only touch her if she wants. By teaching her that I'm listening to her cues (not the other way around) I'm building mutual trust and respect. Although she's panting in the video , it was more intense prior to this exercise and much less after. We've also worked on some calming touch techniques and slow breathing. This is her first day visiting and she's done beautifully considering. #consenttopet #dogmentalhealth #theydeserverespect #fearfreecertifiedprofessional #deepbreaths #gentletouch
Nova is enjoying some breakfast enrichment. She has some resource guarding behaviors so she is fed in her crate. We wanted to "spice" up her routine by offering her breakfast in several different ways. In addition to her slow feeder bowl, kibble was placed in a cone on its side, on top of and under a rubber Frisbee, and inside of a kitty crinkle sack. She had so much fun finding all the kibbles this way! #enrichment #dogsofinstagram #doggydaycare #dogboarding #glendaleaz
Want your business to be the top-listed Pet Store/pet Service?
