What a wonderful way to start the New Year by holding a Puppy Month at the Spa!
To help you celebrate welcoming your new puppy home we are offering
– 25% discount off all Puppy First Groom treatments
– Providing at home grooming advice for your puppy’s coat type
– Taking a gorgeous photo of your puppy’s first grooming treatment at the Spa
– All puppies visiting us for their groom will also receive free entry to our draw to win a Pamper Morning Experience!
A puppy’s initial experiences at a grooming salon can set the stage for how they respond to being groomed for the rest of their life so its vital to make the experience as relaxed and enjoyable as possible. If you have recently welcomed a new puppy into your family then book them in for this fab treatment to ensure their first groom is a fun and relaxing experience!
Puppy’s First Groom
A Puppy First Groom introduces your puppy to the benefits of grooming and encourages them to relax in the grooming environment ready for future treatments. This 60-90 minute treatment is full of cuddles and for puppies between 3-6 months who have had all necessary vaccinations. A puppy’s first groom can take place 2 weeks after their second set of puppy vaccinations.
The treatment includes
Conditioning aromatherapy shampoo
Aromatherapy ear cleanse
Gentle fluff dry by hand
All over body brushing
Trim of sanitary area and around eyes (if applicable)
Nail trim & file
Introduction to teeth brushing
Puppy’s First Groom souvenir photograph
Advice on managing your puppy’s coat at home
Pricing
All breeds under 14 weeks £19
Small breeds from£20
Medium breeds from£25
Large breeds from£29
Terms
Offer only valid for appointments scheduled for between 1st January 2017 and 31st January 2017 inclusive
Appointments subject to availability.
Prices are subject to breed and coat condition.
Offer not applicable for any other grooming treatments including Puppy Trims.
This offer is not valid with other promotions.
Offer not redeemable for cash.
Pamper Morning prize to be taken before March 31st 2017.
Book an appointment
Appointments are going fast so Book Now to secure your puppy’s treatment, entering code PUPPY25 when booking. You can also scehdule an appointment by calling the Spa on 01252 216 100
Tips On Caring For Your Pooch During The Winter Months
The days are now shorter and the nights colder and with the change our pooches will need a little extra care. Here are some tips to help you and your pooch cope with the cold wintry months ahead.
1. Is Your Dog Cold?
How do you know if it is too cold for your dog? If it is too cold for you to stand outside without a coat then it is probably too cold for your pooch as well. Be careful to monitor your pet for signs of them being cold, these include shivering and shaking, verbal clues like whining or barking, and behavioural changes such as an unwillingness to go outside. It is recommended to limit your pet’s exposure to cold wet weather as overexposure could lead to hypothermia.
Hypothermia in dogs is a medical condition that is characterised by an abnormally low body temperature and can occur from exposure to the cold, submersion in cold water for a prolonged period, having a wet coat or skin, or being in a state of shock. Smaller breeds, short haired breeds, puppies and seniors dogs are more prone to rapid loss of surface heat and are at higher risk, so take extra care when venturing outside if your pooch falls into one of these categories. Try taking shorter but more frequent daily walks and make sure to wrap your pooch in weather proof clothing and other accessories to protect against the elements. There are plenty of styles of clothing to choose from however for best protection choose a coat that covers all the area from the neck down to the base of the tail and also covers the chest and belly. This will still leave your pooches ears, feet and tail exposed so you will need to limit their time outside in cold temperatures.
2. How Much Grooming Is Required?
A dog’s ability to regulate their body temperature is affected by the condition of their coat. Matting and a build-up of dead undercoat coat can impact the thermoregulation process and your pet’s ability to keep themselves warm. Many people think they do not need to groom their pets during the colder months and the more hair they have the better it is for the dog; this is not always the case. Breeds such as Labradors should have shedding coat removed to maintain good skin and coat health and support the thermoregulation process. Longer haired breeds and those with thicker coats will also need regular grooming as the wetter weather makes it more difficult to maintain a mat free coat. If your pooch is prone to matting here are a few tips for at home management
– Don’t roughly towel dry your wet pooch, instead gently blot with a chamois towel, blow dry on a low heat setting and comb the hair thoroughly to avoid hair becoming tangled which can lead to matting.
– Repeated wettings without thorough combing will lead to knots, tangles and matting. Use a comb to groom dogs with thicker coats to ensure you are getting through their coat, using a brush alone may only glide over the top of the coat and not separate the hair closer to the skin.
– Using a conditioning spray formulated for use on your dog will help with at home combing and keeping your pooch mat free. Make sure you purchase a spray that doesn’t contain any harsh ingredients; tips on how to choose the best grooming products for your dog can be found here.
– To reduce how muddy your dog gets purchase a coat that also provides chest and belly coverage which helps keep your pooch cleaner and warmer on their walks.
– Unfortunately damp muddy paws are a stable of the winter months. For thick coated breeds such as Cocker Spaniels and Shih Tzu getting legs trimmed a little shorter than usual and keeping hair under paws trimmed will help reduce drying time after walks and also protect your pooch from potential skin irritations caused by a damp coat.
3. Paw and Nose Care
Cracked dry noses and paws are common winter aliments. In addition to the cold wet weather, grit and salt from paths treated for ice can also irritate the paws. To protect your pooches paws
– Apply a paw balm before their daily walk. Choose a non-greasy quickly absorbed paw balm to avoid dirt sticking to the skin.
– Always wash your dog’s feet after each walk to remove any undesirables that may have attached to the paws. You do not want them licking and ingesting any salt or toxic antifreeze than may have collected on their paws during their walk.
– Reapply balm after washing and drying the paws to soothe and rejuvenate the skin.
– Some dogs may benefit from dog booties to protect their paws from the cold and snow.
– Hair between your dog’s pads should be kept trimmed short.
– Apply a natural nose balm before walks to protect against cracking and chapping.
– Coconut oil applied topically is also a great option to treat dry paws, ears or noses.
4. Protecting Against Snow and Ice
Most pooches love playing in the snow! While being lots of fun this activity has some special considerations.
– Keep your pet away from snow piles and trees or roofs with snow build up as these can become dislodged and injure your pet.
– Never allow your dog to wander onto ice covered ponds and lakes as these may not be thick enough to support their weight.
– Running through deep snow is physically demanding especially if your dog is overweight, a senior, a puppy or a small breed. Limit the time your dog spends in the snow and monitor your dog for any signs of distress or lowering of body temperature.
– Snow, ice and damp weather can be painful for a dog with arthritis so ensure they spend a minimum amount of time outside and use our tips above for when your dogs is outdoors. Playing indoors is a great way to keep activity levels up during the colder months.
– Prevent your pooch from drinking from ponds or puddles as these could be contaminated with salt or toxic antifreeze.
– Icy surfaces can cause a dog to slip and may result in a sprained limb or a ruptured cruciate ligament.
– It is very important to remove any snow or ice that has collected on your dogs coat or paws. Hard balls of snow that collect on your dogs paws can feel like stones under their feet and be very painful. Never pull or tug snow balls from the coat as this is very painful and may cause your pet to yelp or nip. Instead soak a cloth in warm water and gently massage the snowballs to dissolve, or if you dog is large slowly pour warm water over the areas massaging the coat as you do so. Once all the snowballs are melted blot the coat using a chamois towel, dry on a low heat setting, and comb thoroughly if applicable.
5. Happy Bedtime
We all like getting into a cosy bed when it is cold outside and that is no different for our pooches. All dogs should be provided with a bed to relax in and not sleep on a cold floor. For their comfort choose a bed that is the right size i.e. one that allows your dog to stretch or sprawl out fully rather than a bed that only provides enough room for your dog to curl up in. When a dog is stretched out this is a sign that they are not cold! Provide them with a cosy blanket and place the bed away from drafts and cold floors. For senior dogs a heated pet bed can help ease stiff joints and aches and pains. To ensure they get a good night sleep their bed should be placed in a quiet warm spot away from any hustle and bustle. Small breeds, short haired breeds, puppies and seniors may also benefit from wearing a jumper at night for added cosiness when the temperature drops. Most dogs now live inside with us but if you do normally keep your dog outside then bring them indoors during the cold winter months as no dog should be left outdoors when the temperature drops.
6. Caring for Senior Dogs
The colder weather will often be problematic for elderly dogs that have arthritis and other joint or back problems. If you dog is not already receiving a natural dietary supplement to lubricate their joints and ease the pain of arthritis adding this to their diet will help soothe stiff joints and promote mobility. Maintaining an exercise routine will help ease keep them mobile however do be mindful to keep them off slippery surfaces, out of deep snow, and limit their expose to harsh weather. Also don’t forget to wrap your pet up in a warm weatherproof coat when outdoors, and provide a cosy bed as seniors are more susceptible to body heat loss.
7. Caring for Puppies
Puppies are more affected by the cold than adult dogs so they need some extra consideration at this time of year. Invest in good quality protective coat for when venturing outdoors and a warm jumper to wear indoors especially at bedtime when the temperature drops. Dry your puppy as quickly as possible after walks and keep their coats well combed to avoid matting, they may not need a haircut but regular grooming is still required. Take shorter walks and supplement with lots of indoor playtime, and make note of the other tips included in this article as they apply to puppies.
8. Nutrition
During the colder months some owners and pets are less inclined to venture outside which results in less exercise. This in turn means less calorie expenditure so continuing to feed the same amount of food in these less active dogs will result in unhealthy weight gain. Cut back on treats and meal portion sizes relative to the reduction in exercise. If you are unsure of how much to reduce by speak with your vet or a Canine Nutritionist.
For dogs that continue with the same level of exercise and do spend time outside additional calories are required. These can be introduced by switching from one to two or three smaller meals per day. We all like the feeling of a warm meal during the colder months and the same goes for our pooches. Warm foods help reduce constriction in the body enabling blood to flow away from the core to the extremities which helps create a sense of warmth. Warm meals are recommended for all dogs but especially puppies, seniors, small and short haired breeds.
– Try adding some warm, no-salt chicken broth to their food to beat the winter chill. This not only makes the meal super tasty it also increases the volume of food your pooch will eat as warm food stimulates a dogs desire to eat.
– Warm water can be added to kibble, canned, dehydrated or freeze dried foods to create a ‘stew’ like meal.
– Be sure to thoroughly defrost raw frozen food before serving. Steamed vegetables or warm bone broth can be added to raw food to introduce some warmth to the meal.
– Warm vegetables and sweet potato added to their food is a good way of introducing more fibre and warmth to a meal.
– Fish and coconut oils are great for preventing dry skin and coat and keeping your pooch healthy. A daily supplement in the run up to and during the cold weather will benefit most dogs.
– Do not serve cold water to your pet. Replace their water a few times each day and make sure to serve it at room temperature.
9. Exercise
Despite the winter weather our pets still need their daily exercise. The best time of day to walk your pooch is late morning or early afternoon when the temperatures are a little warmer. Take advantage of any winter sunshine and bring a ball or other safe toy to play with, this not only helps get more exercise in than walking alone, it’s a great way to raise your pet’s body temperature. Supplement with indoor play to ensure your pooch is getting the required amount of daily exercise.
The change in season brings a wide range of concerns for pet parents. Employing the tips above will help you keep your pooch safe and happy during the winter months.
If you have any questions about the topics in this article please do not hesitate to contact the Spa on 01252 216 100 or [email protected] where a member of our team would be delighted to assist you.
Our Canine Nutritionist can assist with planning your pet’s meals to fit their requirements at this time of year. We also have a wide range of grooming and protective products, and coats and jackets in our Spa boutique to help you find the right products to keep your pooch safe and warm this winter!
DOG GROOMING FAQS
We are here to put you mind at ease. If you’re a new client to pooch Dog Spa you may have a few questions about how the grooming process works. We invite you to take a few moments to browse through our frequently asked questions below. Should you not find the answer to a specific question please feel free to contact us.
Q. When should my puppy come in for its first groom?
A. It’s important to have your puppy groomed as soon as possible so they can get used to and learn to love the grooming experience. We recommend they come in two week after their last set of vaccinations. We will not clip your puppy on their first visit to the Spa as the evolution from a puppy to an adult coat is dependant on breed and a grooming regime will be suggested to suit your puppy. During their first visit your puppy will be introduced in a relaxed and fun way to the sights, sounds and smells of the grooming salon ensuring that future visits are stress free.
Q. How long does it take to groom my pet?
A. Approximate times for each treatment are listed on our Services page. The time taken will depend on the condition and length of your pooch’s hair. We will contact you prior to the end of the treatment to advise what time you should pick up your pooch.
Q. How much does it cost for my pet to be groomed?
A. Pricing is based on breed, hair length, the condition of your pooch’s, skin, its temperament, age, and grooming history. We will give an exact cost at your pre-treatment consultation. However please use the prices listed on our Services page as guide pricing.
Q. Will my dog be in put in a crate?
A. No they won’t as we do not use crates in our Spa. Instead each canine client is assigned an individual waiting suites where they can chill out on a super comfy bed while listening to soothing spa music and benefiting from essential oil therapy while their therapist prepares their treatment.
Q. Do you use drying cages?
A.We have a strict no drying cages policy. All pooch’s are finished by hand by our experienced stylists. We choose this for the safety and well-being of our canine clients, and while this increases the treatment time we refuse to compromise by operating equipment and practices used by other groomers.
Q. What if I cannot pick my dog up from the Spa after its grooming treatment?
A. We offer a chargeable creche service and pick up and drop off service so if you are unable to collect your pooch after their treatment we can creche them or drop your pet off to your home address at a time that is convenient for you to receive them. Please note drop off time must be within our hours of operation, we can collect your dog early morning for arrival to the Spa after 08:30.
Q. Can I stay and watch while you groom my pet?
A.As your pooch loves you very much they will wiggle and move around trying to get close to you which is not safe while we are grooming. It is best to drop off your pooch at their scheduled appointment time, and then come back when the treatment is finished. We are very happy to show our customers around the Spa so they can see where their pooch will have their treatment. Also please feel free to give us a call any time during the treatment to find out how your pooch is doing.
Q. Do I need to bring anything with my pooch for their treatment?
A. Before your pet comes to the Spa we strongly recommend they have a chance to relieve themselves. They may want to have a meal beforehand, but keep in mind if your pet is nervous, they might do better with an empty stomach. Customers new to the Spa need to complete a New Client Registration form which enables us to provide an individualised treatment and care program for your pooch when they visit us. You can complete and submit your form here or download, print and bring to the Spa with you when you bring your pooch in for their first treatment. Feel free to bring along any special blankets, toys, or treats that you know your pooch loves. Also, it you have a preference please feel free to bring a photo of the type of haircut you would like.
Q. How often should my pet be groomed?
A. The length and type of your pet’s coat will determine how often your pet needs to be groomed. Check out our grooming schedule here for details on your pets specific needs.
Q. How often does my dog need a nail trimming and do I need an appointment?
A.Your pooch’s nails should be trimmed monthly. You do not need a pre-booked appointment, but we do recommend you call on the day before you come to reduce your wait time. Why not treat your pooch and book them in for a Deluxe Pawdicure if they are visiting?
Q. My dog is old, can it be groomed?
A.All dogs regardless of age benefit from being groomed. However aged, disabled, and ill pets required specialist treatment during the grooming process. We have a special place in our hearts at pooch Dog Spa for our aged canine companions and our staff have been trained on the individual considerations for special handling of these pooch’s. We are experienced in working with deaf, blind, arthritic dogs, and those with diabetes. If in any doubts please consult your vet who will help you to decide whether there would be any adverse risk in grooming your older dog.
Q. My dog can be aggressive when being groomed, can I bring it to the Spa?
A. Keeping a dog calm during the grooming process is just one of the requirements of a groomer. We understand that some dogs make have had a bad experience of grooming and now do not want or enjoy being groomed. This is one of the areas we specialise in, as through patience, massage techniques, aromatherapy, the right equipment, and time we are confident we can make the grooming experience enjoyable for all dogs. For those that are particularly traumatised we recommend a grooming program consisting of a series of shorter treatments where bath and drying is undertaken at one session, nail clipping and ear cleaning at another, hair clipping at another and so on. These should be spaced a regular intervals of 1 week to aid the training process. One of our therapists would be happy to discuss a treatment plan with you if your pet requires this service. For pooch’s who do not have to get over a previous bad experience but generally do not liked being groomed we will book these in under a standard treatment to determine their requirements. It is very rare to find an ungroomable dog but if we come across any serious problems during a treatment we will discuss them with you so we can agree on a solution together.
Q. What if I am not happy with the service my dog receives?
A. If for any reason you are not completely satisfied with the treatment received, please advise within 2 business days so we can do our best to rectify it. Pet parents satisfaction is important to us. We take great pride in our service and want pooch’s parents to as well.
Q. What type of payment do you accept?
A. We accept cash, Debit cards. MasterCard, and Visa. Please note there is a £1 surcharge when using a credit card, debit cards do not incur a fee.
If you have a question that is not covered by the FAQ please feel free to call us on 01252 216 100, email [email protected] or submit a question here.
WEDDING DAY TREATMENT
With so many venues becoming dog friendly we have seen a dramatic increase in pet parents including pooch in their special day. If your pooch is lucky enough to be part of yours get them ready in style with a visit to pooch Dog Spa!
Our 4 hour Wedding Day Treatment has been created for your pooch to ensure their body, mind and spirit are rejuvenated and ready for your big day. This treatment can be done on the morning of your big day or the day before, whichever is your preference.
The Wedding Day treatment includes:
Consultation to determine skin and coat condition, and any emotional needs that need addressing.
Relaxing chill out session in an individual waiting suite using essential oil therapy.
Gentle cleansing hydro-massage bath with aromatherapy shampoo chosen specifically for your pooch.
Aromatherapy conditioning treatment with 15 minute body massage.
Teeth brushing (non-descaling) and freshener.
Deluxe pawdicure.
Facial.
Heated towel wrap.
Gentle blow and fluff dry and body brushing.
Full haircut or de-shredding treatment performed by a qualified stylist in the preferred style as discussed during the consultation.
Souvenir photo of their special treatment for your photo album.
Small breeds from £87
Medium breeds from £94
Large breeds from £104
For pet parents that want to treat their pooch to the ultimate indulgence why not upgrade to the pooch Spa Day Experience? To book click here or call the Spa on 01252 216 100
We can also help you design your pooch’s wedding day collar and have a range of collars and leads in stock suitable for a wedding palette.
OZONE SPA BATH
At pooch Dog Spa we have a special Ozone Spa Bath that helps your pooch benefit from the very latest in spa therapy; combining three of nature’s most powerful elements, heat, water and air. Our Ozone Spa Bath is effective as it uses hydro-massage, ozone, and aromatherapy to ease stress, bathe away physical fatigue, relax joints and muscles, and treat skin and coat. Ozone is the most powerful and rapid acting oxidizer man can produce, and will oxidize all bacteria, mould and yeast spores, organic material and viruses.
Treatment Options
Revitalising treatment : an all-round general treatment to give back a sense of vitality; ideally suited to nervous, or timid dogs or those with past trauma.
Relaxing treatment : a restorative treatment to combat against the symptoms of tiredness and stress; great for agility, show, and working dogs, and active pets.
Circulation treatment : a treatment to reactivate blood circulation; suitable for elderly pets or those who don’t get a lot of exercise.
Reactivating treatment : this treatment reactivates the function of the cutis; ideal for those suffering with skin conditions, have heavy shedding, or in need of restoring skin health.
Anti-stress treatment : great for relaxation and ideal for those having underwent a stressful situation such a moving home or hormonal imbalances.
Benefits of Ozone Hydro-Massage Therapy
Treatment of skin and hair conditions: With its strong anti-bacterial function Ozone is used to help treat a wide range of skin and hair conditions such as seborrhea, alopecia, yeast infections, and skin allergies including atopic dermatitis, and parasitic dermatitis. It also helps alleviate itching and soothes symptoms of hot spots and eczema. We highly recommend this treatment if your dog is experience heavy seasonal shedding.
Whole Body Massage: The tiny yet powerful bubbles and their rhythmic impact deliver a massaging effect to stimulate and activate body tissues. This relives tension and fatigue, relaxes and balances, massages and encourage the production of red blood cells and white blood cells. Internal organs are stimulated, blood and lymph circulation are facilitated and muscles are relaxed.
Deep Cleansing: The Ozone Spa Bath gently loosens grease and dirt from pooch’s skin. Powerful bubbles clean capillaries in the skin, bringing intense nourishment. This allows skin tissues to breathe better.
How it works
Your pooch is enveloped in the soothing warm water of the Ozone Spa bath which is infused with green tea and aloe vera, or an essential oil blend specifically tailored to your pooch’s needs.
Hydrotherapy: Ozone is created in the water by the ozone generator and released through the pad in the spa bath. The air bubbles and ozone forced into the water collide and burst, emitting ultrasonic waves in the bath water. The waves massage pooch’s skin, loosens dirt, and relaxes muscles.
Heat Therapy: The heat of the water works with the ultrasonic waves to increase blood circulation to tired muscles, tendons and arthritic or rheumatic joints. This increased blood flow brings repair cells to the affected tissues and help them to heal faster. The negatively charged ions, increased water oxygen levels and ozone act to detoxify the air and skin by killing the bacteria and viruses.
Aromatherapy: Aloe vera and green tea is added to the bath to maximise the benefits of the treatment. Alternatively other essential oils can be used to treat specific issues. This will be determined at the pre-treatment consultation session.
Chromotherapy: The Spa Bath includes a colour therapy function which is used to help correct energy imbalances. The colour choice range help invigorate the body and mind, induce deep relaxation, or stimulate energy and vitality. A colour program will be chosen to complement your pooch’s requirements.
TREATMENT PROGRAMS
The frequency of treatment is dependent upon the therapy required. Below are recommended program plans, a tailored program will be built for your pooch during their pre-treatment consultation.
Skin problems: 1 bath per week.
Relaxation: 1 bath every 2 weeks.
Heavy shedding: 2 baths per month.
Stress: 1 bath per month.
Elderly pets: 1 bath every 2 weeks.
Overweight pets: 1 bath every 2 weeks.
To further maximise the benefit of these treatments combine with a Therapeutic Mud Treatment for total body wellbeing.
The Ozone Spa Bath is priced at £19 and can be added to any of our grooming treatments. To book please click here or call the Spa on 01252 216 100
Christmas Draw
** Christmas Draw Winners!**
Thank you to everyone who visited us in the run up to Christmas! We are delighted to announce the winners of our Christmas Draw are as follows
1st prize: Green ticket number 19
2nd prize: Pink ticket number 192
3rd prize: Green ticket number 197
4th prize: Yellow ticket number 27
5th prize: Orange ticket number 116
If you are lucky owner of one of the above tickets please contact the Spa on 01252 2156 100 to claim your prize! We look forward to treating the winning pooches to their fab prizes!
Prizes
– 1st prize – Spa Day Experience: This day spa package has been created for pooch’s to experience the most effective and luxurious of treatments to ensure their body, mind and spirit are rejuvenated and ready for their next adventure.
– 2nd prize – Pamper Morning: Does your pooch need a morning of pampering? Treat them to a super relaxing session while you are at work or having a morning break yourself.
– 3rd prize – pooch Pamper: A pooch Pamper treatment is a five star treatment offering everything your dog needs to look and feel like a totally pampered pooch.
– 4th prize – Wash & Fluff: A great treatment to freshen up yor pooch or to maintain their coats between haircuts.
– 5th prize – Wildwash Shampoo and Fragrance Spray Grooming Kit: A tailored kit of naturally derived products for your pooch.
Terms
1. A ticket will be provided after each grooming treatment at the Spa between October 7th 2016 and December 24th 2016 inclusive.
2. All winning treatments must be taken by 28th February 2017 with appointments subject to salon availability.
3. Prizes are non transferable and can only be redeemed for pets that are registered at the Spa. If you are a new customer or have a new pooch in your family this can be done by completing a New Client Registration Form here.
Pamper Morning
Does your pooch need a morning of pampering? Why not treat them to a super relaxing session while you are at work or having a morning break yourself!
Pooch is greeted by their therapist, undergoes a consultation to determine skin and coat condition, and any emotional needs that need addressing during their treatment
The morning begins with a 30-60 minute walk (depending on their size) around the local park
On return to the Spa they will have a cleansing hydro-massage bath using an aromatherapy shampoo and conditioner chosen specifically for their needs
The in-bath experience includes a soothing blueberry facial and relaxing head massage
Morning treatments are finished with an aromatherapy ear cleanse, pad trim, nail cut and file, gentle blow dry and a full body brushing
A light lunch with mineral water is served
The pamper session concludes with lots of cuddles and nap time in a super comfy suite whilst relaxing spa music is played and aromatherapy oils are diffused
pooch is ready for collection looking beautiful and smelling fab!
A complimentary gift of wholesome homemade dog biscuits is included to continue the treat at home
For pooches getting treated to something from our Boutique a 10% discount on all accessories and grooming products is offered on the day.
Small breeds from£60
Medium breeds from£74
Large breeds from £85
Should you wish to extend your pooch’s time at the Spa we offer a creche facility at £10 per hour. At this time this service is only available for small to medium size dogs.
To book call us now on 01252 216 100 or book online here.
A Special Birthday Gift for your Pooch
Complimentary Spa Treatment
To help celebrate your pooches birthday we would be delighted to treat them to a complimentary spa treatment to ensure their are looking and feeling fab for their special day!
To book this complimentary treatment simply schedule your pooch in for a Wash & Fluff, pooch Makeover, or another all over grooming treatment for the month of their birthday and choose a Spa treatment from the list below. We will also take a special birthday photo as a souvenir of their visit!
– Deep Conditioning Treatment: shea butter, coconut oil, and rose oil is used to rehydrate the coat and skin
– Facial: vanilla and blueberry treatment to cleanse and balance and treat tear staining
– Fresh Breath Treatment: support good oral care with this coconut oil and spearmint oil treatment
To book call us now on 01252 216 100 or book online here.
The Dog Rescuers with Alan Davis
We were delighted to appear on The Dog Rescuers with Alan Davis on Channel 5 Tuesday 2nd August 2016.
The appearance featured Mavis, a Poodle rescued by the RSPCA in 2015 from appalling neglect. She visited the Spa for a pooch Pamper and all the staff loved having this wonderful girl with us. She received lots of fuss and pampering and left the Spa looking fab and smelling devine!
We were delighted to be on the show and loved having Mavis visit us! And many thanks to the lovely crew who filmed the day!
For anyone that missed it, the show is available (episode 7) on the Channel 5 website on demand! Click here to view.
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Comments Off on Customer Testimonials
Customer Reviews
At pooch Dog Spa we pride ourselves on the level of service and the quality of grooming and spa treatments we provide. We are very grateful to our customers who have provided wonderful feedback, some of which is listed below! For more even reviews please check out our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/poochdogspa Ruth Painter (June 2016) – 5 star
I have 3 Cocker Spaniels and they just love it at pooch! And so do I! You walk into reception and it smells exactly like a people spa. The setup is stunning with individual grooming areas and separate waiting bays. Everyone is incredibly friendly: genuinely interested in the dogs, their personalities and needs. They really take time to talk to both people and dogs. My elderly 13.5 yr old dog Monte has a variety of special needs; today’s is a weird lump on his neck that’s going to be surgically removed later this week! Lauren was amazing: she worked around it, without using any perfumed products, so he emerged clean, soft and gorgeous once more! I also have two young pups and pooch introduced them both to the idea of grooming, which they adore. I’m really fussy about my furbabies and it took me a long time to find pooch. All 3 dogs love going in to pooch and don’t give me a second glance! I’m so thrilled and relieved I’ve found them! I drive 45 minutes to get there and it’s definitely worth it. Don’t hesitate to trust them with your precious pooch.
Caroline Hildreth (August 2016) – 5 star
It is so beautiful the staff are fantastic my Charlie looked a million dollars after his first visit and we will be returning for definite he looks like a new dog highly recommend to me and I recommend highly to anyone else it’s a must treat for all ure pooches out there x
Sarah Horsey (July 2016) – 5 star
Took Dougal my Labradoodle here for the first time today and I couldn’t be more pleased with his whole experience! It is by far the best groom he has ever had (& he is 6!) – everyone was just amazing from beginning to end. Thank you so so much xx
Sammy Nichols (Aug 2016) – 5 star
I was really worried about getting our girls groomed for the first time as we have never left our pooches with strangers before – we had a free familiarisation meeting with a lovely & professional lady (wish I could remember her name, sorry) she really put our minds at ease – they went in for their groom today and came out smelling and looking beautiful – the whole spa looks great and is really clean – what I really loved was when our girls came out into the reception area they were wearing little blue bows – it was a really cute touch – we will be coming back and recommending you to all our friends & family.
Ruth Kenton (July 2016) – 5 star
We took our old red setter Ruby to pooch today and they were amazing. Her coat had been destroyed by being spayed! But they sorted her coat out and also helped her stay calm, the difference in her when we picked her up was unbelievable usually she is shaking, but not this time Oh and she looked gorgeous too. Thank you pooch we will be back
Emily Mahon (June 2016) – 5 star
Amazing treatments and they are so lovely to the dogs! You can tell they really love the dogs and want them to feel comfortable and happy!
Beverley Carter (June 2016) – 5 star
Took my dog here to be loved and groomed and that exactly what they did. Libby doesn’t like baths or being brushed but these ladies made it enjoyable for her and when I arrived to collect Libby I couldn’t even hear her crying which she normally does if we leave her but because she was so relaxed and chilled she was sleeping away. Libby doesn’t like being left with people she doesn’t no but these ladies made Libby feel at home.
Tanya Skene (April 2016) – 5 star
Visited the Pooch dog spa for the first time yesterday with Miya, this was her first visit to a groomer so really wasn’t sure what she would make if it. My main reason for visiting was to see if it would relax Miya enough to allow someone to trim her nails without her getting too distressed (we have never managed to achieve this before). We were both greeted by a lovely lady who had Miya relaxed enough not too even notice I had gone. Once ready to be collected she looked absolutely beautiful, smelt gorgeous and they managed to trim her nails without a problem!!! I can’t thank you enough for this and will definitely be returning! What a wonderful team you have.
Andrea O’Donnell (August 2016) – 5 star
Bella had her first puppy groom and she looked amazing. I was a bit nervous how she would react leaving her but she had an amazing time and was so happy when we collected her. I’ll definitely be going back for all her grooming, great recommendation.
Lisa Bilsby (February 2016) – 5 star
A HUGE thank you for taking care of Rosie, she looks and smells absolutely gorgeous!! After her horrendous experience elsewhere you have given back her confidence and that means a lot to me, thank you once again 🙂
Sarah Corke (April 2016) – 5 star
We take both our dogs here and one is especially anxious but they have a great way of making them feel at ease and relaxed they are so kind and really take their time with the dogs – would highly recommend!!
Natalie Lee (April 2016) – 5 star
love all the products that they use and it’s not overpowering perfume smells like other places, I love how friendly everyone is and they did wonders on my dog and made her look so beautiful. We shall be coming back soon 🙂
Sharon Bowen (August 2016) – 5 star
Well just bought my Bobby back from the spa and like always has had loads of fuss made to him, the girls are amazing would be highly recommend the spa.
Daniela Denny (February 2016) – 5 star
I have taken my 1year old Bichon xMaltese in here today, and I can easily and happily say that I am very happy with the service provided! He’s had a lovely trim, I didn’t recognise him at first! I’m very happy with this place and I’ll be booking in again in a few weeks for my other dog too! Can’t wait to treat them at Pooch Dogs Spa
Sally Childs (March 2016) – 5 star
This was the first time my rescue dog had been to a groomer- they made a nervous pooch feel at ease and I cannot express how happy I am with the service received! Highly recommended and will be rebooking- mum has found one she can trust!! Thanks Shirley!
Sam Oliver (January 2016) – 5 star
I can’t thank you enough! Buddy loved his first Puppy Groom yesterday. We had a lovely warm welcome from all the staff and he was instantly relaxed. I felt like a mum dropping off her kids to school on their first day! When I picked him up it was so lovely to hear he had a great time and enjoyed all the treatments. He came out with a spring in his step, confident and happy. He smelt fabulous and I was thrilled. I’m looking forward to seeing his photo put online. We will be going back very soon and highly recommend Pooch Dog Spa to everyone!
Claire Vaines (April 2016) – 5 star
Phoebe and Plato had their first visit today and loved it and I am told they were very well behaved. When I collected them they were very glossy and calm. Really recommend this place
Karen Davies (February 2016) – 5 star
Both Buddy and I love Pooch. He’s had his first full cut today, normally just opting for a wash’n’fluff. He looks amazing, but sure it won’t last long! The spa is always beautifully clean, which says a lot for me. The staff are lovely and patient, Buddy loves going and comes back every time really chilled afterwards. Would highly recommend.
Sammie Stone (April 2016) – 5 star
Took my 4 year old shih tzu, who was not a fan of groomers, She was absolutely fine when I picked her up, looks beautiful, and was very calm when we returned home. Shirley you are a star!!!
Ffion Williams (May 2016) – 5 star
Thank you once again for doing such a good job on Yogi. Always friendly and professional, and most importantly Yogi loves all the staff.
Mary Mooney (August 2016) – 5 star
First trip for our 8 year old rescue staffie, his smiley face in the bath says it all, we shall be back
Nichola Whyte (February 2016) – 5 star
Our Pup Elsa had an absolute brilliant time here. She came away smelling and looking beautiful!! Lovely friendly staff too. I would highly recommend Pooch.
Scott Young (April 2016) – 5 star
Gizmo had his first visit to the spa and came out so happy! Amazing place and a brilliant job you have done. Thank you so much!
Rebecca Chamberlain (December 2015) – 5 star
Shirley and the team are so thoughtful and caring, and of course they do an amazing job with our beloved four legged friends. They fully groom our Cockapoo beautifully and are very happy for us to slowly introduce our very nervous rescue Doberman to the spa. Highly recommend! x
Caroline Betworth (July 2016) – 5 star
First visit today. Great service, lovely staff. Very pleased and pip was happy. Next appointment booked!
Kati Stead (December 2015) – 5 star
Cannot thank Shirley and the other lovely ladies for looking after Sammibear so well and making her look beautiful! Sorry for being such a difficult mummy and giving you such hard work, cannot tell you how much I appreciate how kind and lovely you are! Thank you xx
Marie Mc Jury (April 2016) – 5 star
Would like to say a massive thank you to Shirley. It was Pickle, our shihtzu’ s, first visit today and she looks amazing! Thank you so much.
Simon Hood (July 2015) – 5 star
Today was Barney Pug’s first visit to Pooch Dog Spa. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but they did an amazing job. He had the wash & fluff service along with a facial. He smells good enough to eat, and his coat is so soft and fluffy. They sorted out his nails and pads – it’s literally like he’s a puppy again 🙂 The best thing of all is that he enjoyed – he loved all the attention he got. Only issue now is I don’t wanna let him near any muddy puddles! Thank guys – we look forward to seeing you next month!
Lizzy Hampton (August 2016) – 5 star
Roxy rose loved her spa visit, she will be back soon
Christie Barrett (November 2015) – 5 star
Fab service! Poppy had her first visit today – she was happy and content and smelt and looked wonderful after her pampering! Update – took both my puppies in today (second visit) and WOW what a transformation – from mucky/scruffy pups to absolutely gorgeous girls – thank you so much!
Suzy Warren Harris (July 2015) – 5 star
Wow! Just wow! I cannot thank you enough for what you’ve done for Maverick this afternoon/evening! He looks so handsome and is so much happier – I am genuinely so impressed and grateful to you and your team! We will be back as you know and will be highly recommending that people utilise your skill and expertise, not to mention your love of the animals you work on! Maverick says a great big thank you too! Suzy and Family X
Vanessa Hope (June 20150 – 5 star
Used pooch dog spa for the first time yesterday and couldn’t be more pleased!! They were welcoming, friendly and flexible. We saw where our dog was looked after and groomed, nothing was hidden. Although it was late when we collected him we didn’t feel rushed, in fact it was quite the opposite. Our dog looked the best he has ever looked in his whole 2 years of life, even more cute and lovable (if that’s possible). He wasn’t clipped all over as he had been at other groomers but lovingly brushed for hours and trimmed with scissors and the difference was obvious! The price may have been a little more but it was well worth it for a much happier dog. Thank you Pooch Dog Spa!
Phillip Rockett (January 02016) – 5 star
Just taken our 15 week old labradoodle here. Friendly staff great service .. Our puppy looked great after they had finished highly recommend …
Michelle Mc Mahon (June 2015) – 5 star
Millie had the most amazing spa today, she smells absolutely gorgeous and she didn’t want to leave to come home. Millie loved her facial & massage she was totally spoilt. The owner is so nice & professional with a great deal of knowledge and she even takes the time to research new products for you. Highly recommend and good value for money… Well worth it
Lee Walker (October 2015) – 5 star
Archie and Ivy had a great day at the Spa today and they look absolutely gorgeous, it’s also the first time our Westie Ivy hasn’t spent a day scratching after a cut so we will be coming back regularly to the Spa from now on. Many thanks Lee and Jess
Lauren Curran (October 2015) – 5 star
Amazing & lovely staff my Loki loves his spa days, my furry baby is one spoiled pampered pooch. Thank you too all the staff for making him look & feel great each time, see you soon on our next appointment
Valerie Watson (August 2015) – 5 star
My little ones have never looked so fluffy and they both know how good they look as they have actually went around the puddles instead of threw them this evening. Thank you for all the advice also. Such an amazing place.
Penny Jones (October 2015) – 5 star
This is the best groomers for miles, I deliver my dog looking like a scruff and he comes out looking like a star. They always go the extra mile they are brilliant!
Julia Remmer (June 2015) – 5 star
Trevor had such a lovely time and has come home beautiful and smelling divine! It was his first professional” Pooch make-over” and I will certainly be taking him again. One very happy doggy and his owner! Thank you Girls.
Shannon Saywood (September 2015) – 5 star
Thank you to the team at Pooch Dog Spa for cutting my Charlie’s nails today after his bad experience, he always loves coming into the spa for his treatments with the amazing caring gentle team xx
Ann Marie Rendell (September 2015) – 5 star
Had lady and scamp here today, it was the best hair cut they have had!! Will not be going anywhere else. Thank you so much
Vanessa Wilson (October 2015) – 5 star
Bo Belle had a wonderful time with you today, thank you for looking after her on her first visit…..wonderful friendly environment, we shall be back xxxxx
Matt Fettel (August 2015) – 5 star
Incredible place. An owner who really cares about her customers, always happy to offer advice and offers your dog a relaxed environment while being groomed 🙂 also love the little pictures after the groom
Joanne Josey (July 2015) – 5 star
Bracken’s coat was severely matted due to a few weeks of being in and out of smelly rivers
during the hot weather, 3 and a half hours later one coiffured and pampered mutt emerged looking and smelling gorgeous!!! Thank you so much Pooch Spa!!!!
Sue Littlewood (June 2015) – 5 star
Milo had a great experience at Pooch Dog Spa. I’ve never seen him with a cut that looks so good. He looked and smelled beautiful and was very calm and happy.
Carol O’ Leary (August 2015) – 5 star
Visited the Pooch Dog Spa where my pooch Darcy had an incredible makeover!! 5 star staff 5 staff service 5 star treatments. All I can say is WOW what an experience. Thank you we will be back again soon
Lisa Perry Vaughan (October 2015) – 5 star
Amazing service with lovely staff who truly love dogs. It smells so good there I want to stay too. Highly recommended
Lucinda Jones (September 2015) – 5 star
Louie looked and smelt great.. Seemed very happy when I picked him up with his snazzy blue bow.. Will be back soon
Lisa St Clair (June 2015) – 5 star
Fabulous place to pamper your pooch, always feel Biggie Small is treated like a VIP, staff are lovely and very caring
Katie Forbes (August 2015) – 5 star
Teddy looks and smells amazing after his pooch makeover 🙂 Thank you for making him look so handsome for his first birthday xx
Tina Rushton (September 2015) – 5 star
Took my lhaso apso Reggie yesterday for his first puppy cut and he looks and smells gorgeous. A fantastic place with fab staff. He absolutely loved it there!
Peter Bunting (November 2015) – 5 star
Awesome place. Charlie loved his first visit and pamper!!
Emma Jones (September 2015) – 5 star
Amazing service, Eddie loved his first pamper, will definitely be heading back there!:) thank you ladies
Michelle Adams (May 2015) – 5 star
My Leon looked boooootiful after his spa day. Thanks and see you again x
Sid Richards (November 2015) – 5 star
Excellent service. Our dogs always come out looking very beautiful.
Izzy White (August 2015) – 5 star
Amazing what u do and he smells great and looks so handsome xx
Melanie Clive (May 20150 – 5 star
I was very impressed from the moment that I walked into the boutique. Buster is a cross, he is a yorkiepoo and his hair is very soft yet knots easy, with this in mind I thought that the ladies did an amazing job on my little boy he looks adorable and smells sooo good. He spent the morning sleeping after his relaxing treatments. The little touches were so sweet and very special, love his little Blue bow, Thank you, I shall be bringing little Buster back and I shall recommend you to anyone else looking for a top quality dog groomer.
Nicki Johnston (April 2015) – 5 star
Best place I have ever taken my dog. She is always well looked after, happy and comes back smelling amazing. Thank you so much for a brilliant service x
Uschi Tottle (April 2015) – 5 star
Absolutely amazing girls who work there, they certainly know how to groom a dog, Jonti looked fantastic smelt great and loved his pamper session. Recommend to everyone.
Lauren Jennings (April 2015) – 5 star
Very professional, friendly atmosphere! My little pooch Marler looks and smells amazing! Thank you xx
Holly Calder (April 2015) – 5 star
I won’t take my Archie anywhere else. Archie can be a pickle with his paws and face, but he is handled with patience and care. He comes out relaxed and happy….. and absolutely GORGEOUS!!!
Elizabeth Nickle (March 20150 – 5 star
I brought my puppy Daisy here today and she was treated with loving care for her first grooming. Her fur was trimmed to perfection! We’ll be back for future appointments
Paula Haustead (March 2015) – 5 star
Ruby had a lovely time and she looks beautiful would recommend
Becky Frankland (March 2015) – 5 star
Amazing! Happy doggy who looks and smells beautiful. Thank you xx
Alison Dudley Ward (March 2015) – 5 star
My two bichons visited Pooch Dog Spa for the first time week and had a wonderful experience whilst there. They looked amazing when we picked them up and we have had lots of comments on our walks about how good they are looking now. Shirley and her team spent the entire day grooming them, they were very matted when we turned up and I appreciate how much hard work and patience it must have taken to get them looking so good. Thank you so much, will definitely be back.
Lisa Hersey (March 2015) – 5 star
Wow!!! What a fabulous place! Shirley was so lovely and welcoming from the word go. And kindly fitted my cocker spaniel Betsy in for her hair doo! The spa is amazing and Betsy came home looking gorgeous as well as smelling scrumptious, the finishing touches are just superb will be highly recommending this beautiful doggie spa. Again thank you so much Shirley for making Betsy look so glamorous we look forward to coming back soon. Xx
Joanne Welland (March 2015) – 5 star
Little Betsy looks and smells beautiful after her first puppy groom. She was a bit of a minx having her face done but this was managed with professionalism and patience. Lots of great grooming tips offered by the owner too. Highly recommend
Hannah Donnison (March 2015) – 5 star
Have never seen RT look so fluffy and smell so nice. Highly recommend
Amy Birch (March 2015) – 5 star
Fantastic service, I can’t rate them high enough!
Louisa Moore (March 2015) – 5 star
Ruby Slippers says thank you so much for making her look gorgeous xxxxxxxx
Amy Steeden Smith (March 2015) – 5 star
Took my Poppy here today for her first puppy cut. I felt reassured by Shirley, who was so lovely, as it was the first time I’d left poppy. Picking Poppy up, she looked amazing, beautifully white, and looks so beautiful. I will definitely be returning again and will recommend.
Many Ferry (March 2015) – 5 star
What a fantastic find! Alfie, my golden retriever, was in for his first spa visit today and the girls were just fab with him. He is 6 weeks post cruciate op and has ichthyosis, a skin condition, but you went above and beyond to look after him and took great care and attention when washing and brushing him. He can’t wait for his next visit 🙂
Karen Champion-Grange (March 2015) – 5 star
We took our little rescue dog Jenny to Pooch Dog Spa and the ladies were so kind and gentle. They were aware of her nervousness and looked after her well. Jenny had a lovely makeover and a fantastic haircut, she was very happy and calm when we arrived to take her home. We will definitely return when Jenny needs pampering again.
Pat Curtis (February 2015) – 5 star
Thank you for looking after Charlie and Ollie today, they look wonderful I am really happy with their cut, also for trimming little Leo’s nails.
Vicki Cook (February 2015) – 5 star
What a lovely place, Finn smelt and looked great when we picked him up, defiantly be going back.
Steve Woodings (February 2015) – 5 star
Doug and Paddy had a great time and come out gleaming. Pooch provide a great good quality service. Absolutely first class service
Anne Harvey (February 2015) – 5 star
I wish I could give more stars, love the staff, the boutique, the atmosphere, the cleanliness and most of all my pooch loves it. Will definitely be recommending pooch dog spa to all my friends. Thank you Shirley you’re fab!!
Hazel Sinclaire (January 2015) – 5 star
Superb experience for my baby Tayla I haven’t stopped praising the excellent service x
Annabelle Perkin (January 2015) – 5 star
Took my 5 month old labradoodle, Kodi, for his first grooming session. What a fantastic service, he came back looking even more handsome. First class facilities and Shirley and her team provide a first class service. Kodi thoroughly enjoyed his pampering session!!!!
Claire Sallnow (January 2015) – 5 star
Highly recommended. Teddy our 7 month old cockapoo had a wonderful first haircut, really pleased and he loved the ladies that pampered after him.
Heather Penny (December 2014) – 5 star
Have one happy, clean Ben dog today. Thank you! Will be booking him in again.
Louise Hutchings (November 2014) – 5 star
If there was a higher rating then pooch dog spa would be getting it – my dog had extremely matted ears and I needed an urgent appointment with a groomer. Such care and attention was taken that now I would not take my boy anywhere else. 2 future appointments already booked and my business is guaranteed! Would highly recommend to anyone, decent prices, loyalty scheme and by far the best groomer I have come across in the 10 years I’ve owned my dog – not sure what else I can say except if you love your dog, this is the place for you – Thank you Shirley
Understanding Complete dog food
In order to feed your dog we must first look at what they require to ensure they are provided with the best nutrition to improve their health and allow them to flourish. In this blog we will be looking at Complete dog food.
An average adult dog requires a food with a minimum of 60% high quality meat, minimal amounts of fruit and vegetables, with grain absent from their diet. Dogs are classified as scavenging carnivores meaning their primary source of food must be the flesh, muscle, fat and organ meat of other animals. A small proportion of your dogs diet may contain fruits and vegetables and 10% raw bones to aid teeth health (never feed cooked or roasted bones).
Although dogs have been domesticated for the past 33,000 years their digestive systems have barely changed from that of their ancestor the Grey Wolf. Wolves naturally eat a whole prey diet eating as much of the animal meat and organs as possible including the often herbivorous preys gut content which would provide them with a small proportion of pre-digested plant and vegetable matter.
Although their dietary needs have changed little, the way in which we feed our dogs has since the introduction of the first manufactured dog food. Today there is near to 1000 different dog food companies, so it can be difficult to know which is best for your beloved dog.
When choosing a food for your dog the key is to know what to look for and what to avoid when reading the ingredients. Never be swayed into buying a food due to its fancy packaging, low price, claims of being a natural diet or complete diet, advertising on TV, at your vets or by recommendation of a friend or family member. It is your job as a pet parent to do your own research and to seek a nutritional consultation which will aid your dog in the long term.
Categorising dog food
Manufactured Dog food comes in five main forms
– Kibble – Cereal based kibble, Average kibble, Premium kibble
– Wet food
– Complete raw diet
Kibble
Cereal based kibble
These low meat quality and quantity foods are high in cereals which is not ideal to maintain good health. Cereals to avoid include, maize, corn and wheat, which commonly cause allergies and provide little to no nutritional benefit. Typically these foods are low in price due to their cheap nutritionally lacking ingredients including “meat and animal derivatives” which are the scrap or left overs of the animal instead of highly nutritious muscle meat.
Foods such as these can also change the species they include meaning dogs with dietary sensitivity or allergies are at risk as their owners may not know what they are eating bowl to bowl. This is common with foods stating for example “including min 4% chicken” (remember dogs require a minimum of 60% high quality meat). Some brands fill their low meat foods with salts, sugars, artificial flavours and E numbers to make them more palatable. None of these should be in a dogs diet as they can affect the kidneys and liver, cause a dog to be at greater risk of obesity, diabetes, and behavioural issues such as hyperactivity.
Average kibble
In the middle quality range of dry food these contain primarily meat meal – i.e. chicken meal, lamb meal etc. Others use dehydrated animal proteins or hydrolysed animal proteins, such as dehydrated poultry protein. It is important as with all ingredients that they are clearly labelled, be wary of grouped ingredients such as “poultry” and “animal” these allow the meat used to change regularly.
As a carbohydrate source these foods commonly use brown or white rice, barley and oats as these are easier to digest compared to some cereals. Others can include potato, sweet potato and pea flour. Average kibbles contain a minimum of 30% meat product and will include additives which may be natural or artificial so it is important to read the ingredients. A lower meat level may be appropriate for dogs with severe digestive upset although it is important to note that nutritional levels may not be suitable for a long term diet.
Premium kibble
Containing a minimum of 60% high grade meat “fresh chicken, dehydrated chicken” these food list every ingredient clearly allowing pet parents to know exactly what you are feeding, this is especially important for dogs with allergies. Premium kibbles are commonly grain free enabling your dog to digest as much as possible absorbing all those high quality nutrients. Although premium diets are more expensive than cereal or average kibble they provide a range of health benefits and reduce the risk of digestive issues, skin allergies, behaviour issues, kidney problems and more. Less dietary related health issues means less trips to the vet and with an increased level of digestible ingredients less is required to be fed meaning the food will last much longer. Premium diets are often small businesses that source their ingredients from the UK. This personalised care of their food assures you they are making the food to benefit your dog not their income.
Wet Food
As with kibble food wet food comes in various quality levels.
Low quality wet food
These are the foods you will find in supermarkets, corner shops and petrol stations. These cheap wet foods typicallly provide the minimum levels of meat (remember that dogs need minimum 60% high quality meat to thrive). The meat used in these foods are known as meat and animal derivatives, a broad term for the left overs from manufacturing human grade food products. Food manufacturers do not use these for human consumption as they provide low nutritional value, however artificial additives will be added for dog food production so a dog can survive but not necessarily thrive long term on these foods. Cereals will be included to bulk up the food and keep the dog full, along with sugar and salts to improve the taste.
Medium quality wet food
Containing from 40% meat, these foods clearly label which species the meat is derived from such as chicken or beef. Although these may contain grain they typically use rice which is easier to digest or other carbohydrates such as potato; vegetables will also be clearly labelled. If additives are included these are often natural with no salt, sugar, colorants or e-numbers added. These are suitable diets and may be an appropriate diet for dogs who struggle with higher meat levels in wet foods.
High quality wet food
Hitting the minimum required 60% mark or higher meat content these diets use high quality muscle meat and organs providing the maximum level of nutritional value for your dog. These grain free wet foods use fruits and vegetables such as cranberries, coconut, and carrot creating variety and enabling better digestibility. With clearly detailed ingredient lists allowing pet parents to know exactly what their pet is eating, these ingredients do not change where as many cheaper foods will change the level of ingredients used depending on which is cheapest at the time. High quality foods keep to the same composition and are perfect for those who suffer from dietary intolerance or allergies. Some additives will be included but these are beneficial natural additives such as probiotics for digestive health and glucosamine for improved joint movement and health.
Raw Food
Complete raw foods come in various frozen forms including nuggets, blocks and tubs with a verity of meat proteins and life stage choices from multiple companies which specialise in this diet form. The basics of a raw complete food should consist of a minimum 60% raw meat, 10% bone and 10% offal (5% of which should be liver), some variations may include fruits and vegetables. This is the most natural form of complete diets and provide multiple benefits for health and behaviour as it allows your dogs digestive system to process the foods in a raw state as they were designed to. When reading complete raw food ingredients it is important to note some will be quite short as they list the meat, bone and offal source and any additions such as vegetables. For example “chicken (70%), chicken bone (10%), beef green tripe (5%), beef liver (5%), carrots, apple, spinach, butternut squash, Scottish salmon oil”.
Some raw food ingredient lists may not indicate that there is glucosamine in the diet as the protein used contains natural forms of this joint aid, such as beef trachea, chicken feet and any parts of the animal high in cartilage or connective tissue. Much like other complete diets all raw food diets are different so it is important to try a verity to know what protein source your dog prefers and what percentage of meat to bone aids their digestive system.
Dogs’ are very much part of our family and it is our responsibility as pet parents to ensure they are provided the best possible diet for their individual needs. To check the quality of the food you currently feed your dog visit the website All About Dog Food for independent ratings on most brands of dog food.
For a comprehensive, personalised dietary plan to benefit your dog book a nutritional consultation today at pooch Dog Spa. To learn about our Nutritional services please click here. To schedule an appointment with our Canine Nutritionist please call the Spa on 01252 216 100 or book an appointment here
(Always remember no matter what type of food you feed always provide your dog fresh filtered water daily)
What should I feed my dog?
A nutritious balanced diet is essential to keeping your dog healthy. There are numerous brands of food on the market, and with dog food companies spending millions on marketing it can be difficult to choose one that is of maximum benefit to your dog.
We are often asked what food is best for an owners dog but unfortunately there is no one easy answer, every dog is different in their health needs, and lifestyle and their diet should reflect those needs. Finding the right food for your dog may involve some trial and error but you should not be discouraged about changing your dogs food at various points in their life to address changes such as aging or ill health.
When choosing a diet it is important to select a category of foods that most suits your dogs and your lifestyle; dry, raw complete, wet, raw homemade, cooked homemade or mixer. Each category of food has its pros and cons, and although this blog will help narrow down the food categories with the best ingredients, not every foods suits every dog. To ensure you are feeding your dog the most suitable diet for their needs it is advisable that you speak with a qualified canine nutritionist or holistic vet to better understand their requirements and plan a suitable diet. It is always recommended to consult a canine nutritionist or holistic vet before making any major changes to your dogs diet.
Categories
Manufactured foods can be divided into two initial groups – complete and complementary.
Complete foods
With over 900 complete foods on the market this is the most popular choice for UK dog owners. To be ‘complete’ foods must contain every nutrient required by a dog in the minimum required amounts to enable a dog to survive which means this food can be fed alone. Complete foods can be dry, wet or raw. It is important to note however that some complete foods contain higher quality nutrient levels than others.
Complementary foods
Complementary foods are those that do not contain the full range or quantity of nutrients required by a dog to allow them to survive on that food long term. Complementary foods include some wet and raw foods as well as mixer biscuits; mixers are primarily cereal based filler biscuits some of which contain vegetables or herbs. Like all dog foods, complementary types range from very high in quality to very poor. Complementary foods are nutritionally incomplete, in so far as which other ingredients or foods must be added to the diet to provide a balanced meal.
Dry foods
In the UK the majority of dogs are fed on dry complete foods. Their popularity is primarily down to convenience as they don’t need any preparation and only require to be stored in a cool, dry place.
Dry food ingredients are dried and ground and can be cooked in a number of ways:
1. Extrusion – the most common cooking method for dry dog foods. During the extrusion process, raw ingredients are ground, then passed down a giant steam cooker. After the extrusion process the food is cooled, dried and is given a coating of fats and oils to enhance its palatability due to the loss of flavour during cooking. Reviewing the food after this process shows that the high pressures and temperatures involved in extrusion may destroy a percentage of the nutrients contained in the food including vitamins, amino-acids and enzymes.
2. Baking – this method of cooking allows foods to be processed at lower pressures than extrusion and therefore may allow more of the foods nutrients intact. Although Baking does require a certain amount of wheat gluten which allows the biscuit to bind, wheat gluten is difficult for a dog to digest and has been shown to cause allergies and health issues in some dogs.
3. Cold pressing is the process of pressing ingredients together for a period of only a few seconds at very low temperatures. This allows dry foods to be created without potentially damaging high temperatures or pressures. Cold pressed foods are highly specialised so it is advisable to speak with a nutritionist for advice on feeding your dog a cold pressed diet.
4. Air drying is the evaporation of water from the raw ingredients after they have been mixed by exposing the food to a current of heated air over a period of time. Air drying decreases damage to proteins, vitamins and enzymes compared to generic cooking methods.
Dry complete foods can be fed alongside or mixed with both raw and wet foods. When mixing complete diets, care must be taken not to over feed. The easiest way to mix diets is to feed half of the suggested amount of the first food with half the recommended amount of the second. Some dogs may find it difficult to digest a 50/50 feed of wet or raw when mixed with dry, so it advisable to vary the amounts until a suitable balance is achieved.
Wet foods
Wet foods can be found in tins, trays and pouches at various levels of nutrition quality from only 4% meat and animal derivatives to 80% fresh meat, so it is important to read the ingredients prior to purchase. Wet foods should not require added preservatives as the cooking process kills all micro-organisms within the air tight containers. Wet foods come in complete or complementary and can be mixed with dry diets. The feeding amounts are much higher than dry and raw due to the high water content causing them to be a more expensive diet to provide.
Raw foods Growing in popularity this method of feeding is as old as dogs themselves, is making a wonderful comeback for our modern dogs. Raw feeding is regarded by many vets, scientific studies and dog guardians as the most natural way to feed our best friend and over the past few years has become a very popular option for pet owners. This diet allows your dog’s body to work as it was naturally designed to by digesting raw, unprocessed meat, organs, bones and vegetables. There are two main ways to feed raw. Pre-prepared complete diets come in frozen nuggets or blocks which have been balanced with all the correct percentages and nutrients providing the health benefits of raw with the convenience of dry or wet food. For those with a dog requiring specialised diet or who like to know every ingredient in their dog’s diet you can make a home raw diet also known as a DIY diet, this will be covered in following blogs.
All pre-made raw food is frozen and requires defrosting and contains a high proportion of water much like wet food. This is good as a dogs body is 70% water allowing your dogs body to absorb a high proportion of their water needs naturally through their food rather than out sourcing from a separate bowl as often.
When you have decided which type of food you would prefer your dog to eat, we at pooch Dog Spa can help you select some of the best varieties from those available. Always take into account your dogs current health status, weight, activity levels and life style when choosing a food, along with you as a dog guardians, budget, time available and life style.
To check the quality of the food you currently feed your dog check out the website All About Dog Food for independent ratings on most brands of dog food.
To learn about our Nutritional services please click here. To schedule an appointment with our Canine Nutritionist please call the Spa on 01252216100 or book an appointment here
(Always remember no matter what type of food you feed always provide your dog fresh filtered water daily)
With two-thirds of pet owners seeing their pet as an intrinsic and beloved member of the family, the want for reliable and high-quality care is increasing too. Red Letter Days interviewed pooch Dog Spa about the pet pampering industry and our very popular dog spa!
‘Holistic grooming is the practice of grooming your pet in a stress-free environment in order to provide optimal health for both their body and mind’.
At pooch Dog Spa our mission is to provide an unparalleled level of holistic dog grooming and spa services catering to the individual needs of all our canine clients in a loving, and tranquil environment. (more…)
Trimming your dog’s nails is an important part of their grooming routine. Left unchecked, overgrown nails can be painful for a dog; it can result in splitting or breaking of the nail, and cause an irregular gait that can lead to skeletal damage.
Need a little bit more time before you collect your pooch after their grooming treatment? We now offer a creche facility for small and medium sized dogs.(more…)
The holiday season is a time to show your loved one’s how much you care about them. So for the special pooch in yours or a loved one’s life why not give the perfect gift of a pooch Dog Spa Gift Card.(more…)
Our Natural Flea and Tick Prevention Treatment is ideal for owners that prefer a pesticide free natural flea and tick prevention routine, and dogs whose lifestyle make them prone to picking up these parasites. (more…)
A pooch Pamper treatment is a full star treatment offering everything your dog needs to look and feel like a totally pampered pooch.
This all over treatment includes a super cleansing hydro-massage bath with aromatherapy shampoo and an aromatherapy conditioning treatment with a 15-minute body massage to keep your pet’s skin moisturised. This is followed by a heated towel wrap, teeth brushing (non-descaling), an express pawdicure, and a hydrating and soothing vanilla and blueberry facial treatment to cleanse and balance. For a super stylish pooch, the treatment concludes with a gentle blow dry, full body brushing, aromatherapy ear cleaning, and nail trim and file, and either a full haircut, all over trim, or undercoat de-shedding.
This service is priced per breed.
Small breeds from £72
Medium breeds from £79
Large breeds from £89
Call us now on 01252 216 100 to book an appointment for your pooch. We would be delighted to serve your pet care needs
Dogs are amazing creatures. They have been our loyal companions for thousands of years and have adapted to the many tasks we have bred them for. (more…)
We have introduced several express services to help maintain your pooch’s coat and general health between grooms.
These new services include:
Ear Cleansing
10 minutes
£8
A gentle deep cleaning treatment to remove wax and debris from the outer ear canal using a lavender and chamomile aromatherapy ear cleanser.
Express Tear Stain Removal
15 minutes
£10
A natural antimicrobial treatment to remove tear stains and debris from deep facial folds, suitable for Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shar Pei. Regular cleansing in these breeds is recommended to prevent skin fold dermatitis. This treatment does not need to be combined with a grooming treatment.
Nail trim
10 minutes
£9
Dogs need their nails trimmed every 4-6 weeks especially if they have long quicks. When you hear the clicking of nails on the floor its time for a trim.
Nail & Pad Trim
15 minutes
£11
Help keep your pooch’s nails and pads in top condition between grooms with our nail and paw pad hair trimming service.
Express Matt Removal
10 minutes
£9
Does you pooch have a few problematic mats but does not need a full groom? We can remove stubborn mats behind ears or in friction areas to help prolong the time between grooms. (Subject to consultation).
Top Knot Styling & Bow
10 minutes
£7
Help keep your pooch’s tresses out of their eyes without comprimising their style! Includes a choice of hair bow.
Teeth Brushing and Freshener
10 minutes
£6.50
A non-descaling treatment that removes food debris and bacteria from your pooch’s teeth. Regular brushing is required to maintain good dental health.
To book an express service for your pooch please call the Spa on 01252 216 100
If like me you are the proud pet parent to a Shih Tzu you know part of their appeal is their beautiful coat, big round eyes, and sweet expressions. (more…)
To ensure your pooch stays looking their best a regular breed specific grooming treatment is required. (more…)
Despite the wet weather our pooch’s still need their daily walks. (more…)
One of the biggest asks from dog owners is how do they stop their pet from constantly scratching. (more…)
A lot of people are reluctant to use over the counter chemical flea and tick treatments with good reason. (more…)
A nutritious balanced diet is essential to keeping your dog healthy. (more…)
Imagine going months without washing your hair, cutting your nails or brushing your teeth. Unfortunately, this is the reality for lots of dogs because their owners have not been advised on the importance of good grooming.
With busy schedules, it’s difficult for owners to keep on top of a regular grooming routine. Mats, impacted hair between the paw pads, ear problems, lumps and bumps, skin infections or irritations are just some of the things that may not be picked up, so working with a professional groomer will help keep these things in check.
GROOMING FREQUENCY
A good grooming routine is essential to the health and well- being of your dog. All dogs benefit from regular grooming whether you have a short haired breed or one with a long flowing coat. Not only does it keep coats clean and manageable it also aerates the coat ensuring healthy growth, and helps your dog regulate their body temperature. Long haired dogs and those with active lifestyles need to be groomed more frequently. How often they are groomed will depend on upon a number of factors – their breed, length of coat, the condition of the skin, general health, and how mucky your dog gets! Certain breeds need more frequent grooming than others. Check out our grooming schedule hereto see how often your dog needs to be professionally groomed.
COAT
A dog’s coat does a lot more than just defining your dog’s colour. The coat serves as an insulating layer between your dog’s skin and the external environment. It protects them from the heat and sun in the summer, the cold in the winter, and from cuts and abrasions. So correct grooming practices, coat length, and coat care is essential to your dog’s ability to regulate its temperature and protect its delicate skin. Dogs have several types of hair and each type requires different levels of care. Depending on breed your dog will either have a smooth, short, silky, curly or wavy, wiry, long, corded, combination, double, or heavy coat. The growth of their hair is affected by nutrition, hormones, and change of season. Dogs normally shed hair in the early spring and early autumn. When shedding, loose hair can get trapped causing them to become tangled and matted. If not effectively brushed on a regular basis this can result in heavy matting which causes your dog pain and skin irritation. For more information on matting see our article Mat Matters.
As the growth and health of your dog’s coat and skin is heavily dependent on their diet, the better your dog’s food the better the condition of their coat and skin. Foods that are rich in essential fatty acids are particularly of benefit to your dog’s coat, so if your dog is showing signs of issues with coat or skin then their diet could be the problem. What does a healthy coat look like? The coat should be soft and relatively smooth even on short or wire-haired breeds, it should be shiny but not greasy and it should not have a strong odour. An unhealthy coat is brittle and dry with lots of loose hair, it may have a dull appearance, be greasy, have bald spots or an unpleasant smell. If your dog has an unhealthy coat do not be tempted to over-bathe as this can lead to dry skin and irritation. Speak to your vet or the professional groomer for advice on how best to address this issue. Your dog’s coat type will determine the grooming method and products required to optimise the health and performance of their coat.
SKIN
Skin disorders are amongst the most common health problems in dogs. Constant scratching, biting, or licking is usually caused by parasites, infections, allergies, stress, diet, environmental problems, or a combination of these. If not, it may just be dry skin. Regardless of the source itching is a threat to skin health. A dog’s outer layer of skin is not as thick as humans, it also has a different pH level making the skin not only delicate but susceptible to absorbing undesirables. Using products formulated for human use will disrupt your dog’s skin acid mantle creating an environment where bacteria, parasites, and viruses can grow. To protect against this never use human shampoo, soap, conditioner, or perfumes on your dog. A dog’s skin depends on the hair and oils on it to keep it in good condition. Grooming your dog regularly helps promote healthy skin and prevent the problems caused by matted hair which provides a breeding grounds for a variety of skin diseases. If you notice any abnormality in your dog’s skin, or if your dog begins to excessively scratch, lick and/or bite areas on its body you should visit your vet for an examination as soon as possible.
EARS
Cleaning your dog’s ears is an essential part of their grooming routine. All dogs should have their ears cleaned on a regular basis however some dogs need more frequent and thorough cleaning than others due to their genetic predispositions to ear infections. Dogs with long floppy ears have a lack of adequate airflow to the ear canal which can expedite an ear infection. Other dogs have an excessive amount of glands in their ear canals which produce a lot of secretions that need regular cleaning.
When we clean the ears we focus on the external ear canal as ear wax and debris can easily build up around the ridges. Never clean beyond this point in a dog’s ears, and never use a cotton bud to go down into the ear canal. If your dog has an ear infection you should visit your vet. In addition to cleansing, certain breeds also require their ears to be plucked due to them having thick hair growing in their ear canal. Poodles, Shih Tzu, and Maltese are some of the breeds that require their ears to be plucked. Care has to be taken when doing this to avoid irritation or causing pain to the dog. This is a task best left to the professional groomer.
NAILS
That click-click sound your dog makes when walking means it’s time to cut their overgrown nails. Most people get very anxious at the thought of clipping their dog’s nails especially those dogs with black nails. If your dog’s nails get too long they can break and bleed which is very painful and can result in infection. Overgrown nails can also curl backwards into the dogs pad causing serious pain and possible infection, this is typically more common in the dew claw. Nails that are too long also cause an irregular gait that leads to skeletal damage. When cutting the nail it is very important not to cut the ‘quick’ (the living part of a dog’s nail that has blood vessels and nerves running throughout) as this will cause the nail to bleed. In white nails this can be easily seen however in black nails cutting will have to be done in stages to avoid the quick. If you are not comfortable cutting your dog’s nails then you should take them to your groomer.
TEETH
Caring for your dog’s teeth is vital to their overall health and care. Many dogs show signs of gum disease by the time they are 4 years old because they haven’t been given proper mouth care. The frequency of dental scaling and polishing will depend on how quickly tartar forms on your dog’s teeth. A good home care program will reduce how often your dog’s teeth need to be professionally cleaned. You should aim to brush your dog’s teeth 3 times per week using a toothpaste formulated for dogs. Never use human toothpaste to brush your dog’s teeth. You should start this as soon as possible when your dog is young so they get used to the sensation of their teeth being cleaned. A yearly dental check up with the vet is recommended.
WHY PROFESSIONAL GROOMING
A professional groomer will have a vast selection of tools, products, and equipment specifically developed for use on our canine companions which you may not have at home. They will be skilled at clipping nails, cleaning and plucking ears, using correct bathing and brushing practices, and be able to provide the right cut to make your dog look and feel their best. Every pet parent should build a relationship with their groomer of choice as your groomer can help you care for and maintain the health of your beloved pooch.
BETWEEN PROFESSIONAL GROOMING
If your dog’s coat is dirty it is recommended you do not brush it as this can damage the coat as hair breaks easier when dry. Instead, bath your dog before brushing or schedule them a visit with their groomer. A lot of people that want to bathe their dog between visits to the grooming salon ask if they can use their own shampoo and conditioner on their dog. The answer is definitely not and here is the reason why. As mentioned above your dog’s skin has a different pH to yours so using human products can disrupt their skin’s acid mantel and create an environment where bacteria, parasites, and viruses grow on your pooch resulting in a lot of discomfort and skin problems. Always use products specially developed for use on your pooch. For more information on the importance of using the right products and advice on what to look for when purchasing products click here.
If bathing your dog at home remember to use cool to lukewarm water. A dog’s skin is thinner than ours and their body temperature is a degree higher so they feel the heat much easier than us. If your dog starts panting when you are washing them the water temperature is too high. The same applies for drying. Do not use a hairdryer on a high heat setting, always use the cool setting and use from a distance. Human hairdryers were not designed for use on dogs so if unsure towel dry your dog and let dry naturally before leaving them to go outside (unless it is very warm outside). If unsure of how to dry your dog speak with your groomer.
If trimming your dog’s nails at home do so after a bath when you dog is wet as the nails will be softer and this can help prevent splitting. Don’t forget to check for the quick and do not cut into it. Again if unsure leave this task to your groomer.
