Dog Grooming in Tampa
15417 North Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, FL, USA
Welcome to Grande Style Dog Grooming in Tampa Pet Grooming
Pets are accepted for grooming only under the following circumstances....
Pets are accepted for grooming only under the following circumstances....
- The pet is fit and healthy, Grooming which takes place on an elderly or infirm pet will be at the owner's risk. Grooming may expose pre-existing health\skin conditions for which Poodle Penthouse Inc/ DBA Grande Style Pet cannot be held liable.
- We prefer not to work on pets who have been given tranquilizers or calming medications. Please inform us if your pet is medicated.
- The pet's rabies vaccine is up to date (as required by law) unless otherwise discussed.
- You agree to keep your pet up to date on necessary vaccines as recommended by your veterinarian. It is the pet parents responsibility to protect their pet from contagious disease with available vaccines. We understand that some pets are exempt from certain or all vaccines.
- We do not accept pets with potentially contagious skin ailments, broken skin, sores, crusts, or lesions.
- In the event of an emergency, in your absence, you authorize Grande Style Pet Grooming to contact the nearest Veterinarian and authorize the Vet to treat the pet as necessary at your expense.
- Pets with heart murmurs grade 3 or higher, as well as pets in congestive heart failure, kidney failure, cancer, diabetes and other ailments are at risk during grooming. The pet parent assumes full responsibility in the event of death, or should the pet require emergency treatment.
- Payment is to be made at the time of service. Payment can be cash, check or credit card. Returned checks will incur a $35 charge. Our rates are based on the breed of the pet and duration of the groom.
- We do not offer inner ear hair plucking, we will trim the excess hair.
- We do not empty anal glands, please have this service taken care of by your veterinarian. For dogs with chronic issues, we will release pressure externally, with your vets approval.
- “De-matting" or complete coat removal will dramatically alter your pet's appearance. This procedure may expose pre-existing health\skin problems for which Grande Style Pet Grooming cannot be held liable.
- We charge $1.00 per minute to brush out tangles and mats.
- Pets who are found to have fleas will incur a $15 charge for flea removal. This fee may not be quoted in advance.
- Pets are regularly captured on video for our social media platforms and all day YouTube livestreams. Most dogs groomed by Suzanne are live-streamed on YouTube. Clients voices may be picked up during the streams and heard publicly. By signing this agreement, you consent to this practice.
1. Cancellation policy:
Appointments must be canceled at least 24 hours in advance to avoid a penalty. If you cancel less than 24 hours before your appointment or do not show up, you will be charged 100% of the scheduled service. To cancel, email grandestylepets@gmail.com or reply with “N” to your reminder text at least 24 hours before your appointment time. Please keep track of your appointment, as reminders are provided as a courtesy and should not be solely relied upon.
We follow the Hillsborough County public school closures as they pertain to inclement weather. We try to work as long as conditions are not dangerous. If you are unsure, please call us to confirm.
At Grande Style Pet Grooming, we value the time of our clients and our stylists. To provide the best service to all clients.
Late Arrivals. Please arrive on time. We offer a 15 minute grace period. If you arrive later than 15 minutes, you will need to reschedule your appointment to avoid impacting other clients.
Should your stylist need to cancel due to illness or other unforeseen reasons, every effort will be made to reschedule your appointment as soon as possible.
We do everything we can to keep you with your scheduled stylist, however, we reserve the right to adjust the schedule as needed to ensure prompt service.
Grande Style Pet Grooming Vaccination Requirements
We must have proof of rabies on file for all dogs over 16 weeks old, which is especially important for those receiving dog grooming or pet grooming services. I understand that some dogs (including one of my own) can no longer have any vaccines. In this case, just have your vet write a note. Proof of rabies can be the receipt from the vet, a rabies slip provided by your vet, or a rabies tag. It is the pet owner's responsibility to protect their adult pet from preventable disease by maintaining vaccines as determined by your veterinarian, especially when considering grooming for small dogs.
Puppies must be current on their puppy vaccines
We accept puppies who are on schedule with their core vaccines, and have been cleared by the vet for grooming.
Dog haircut services
We must have proof of rabies on file for all dogs over 16 weeks old, which is especially important for those receiving dog grooming or pet grooming services. I understand that some dogs (including one of my own) can no longer have any vaccines. In this case, just have your vet write a note. Proof of rabies can be the receipt from the vet, a rabies slip provided by your vet, or a rabies tag. It is the pet owner's responsibility to protect their adult pet from preventable disease by maintaining vaccines as determined by your veterinarian, especially when considering grooming for small dogs.
Why we do not pluck a dogs ears
Is there an alternative to plucking dog ear hair?
Does plucking the hair hurt the dog?
Is dog ear plucking necessary?
At Grande Style Pet Grooming, located in the Northdale/ Carrollwood area in Tampa, we do not believe that the pet groomers should excessively pluck their clients dogs ears. We only remove hair that is in the exogen phase, and releases easily with finger and thumb.
We never use ear powder, as this can clog the ears.
The dogs ear canal is shaped like a capital letter L, glands and hair line inside the dog’s ear. The glands produce wax, and the hair moves it up and out to clean the ear. This is the way it is supposed to naturally. Dogs ears are self-cleaning!
A normal, clean ear should pink and free of debris.
In the past, it has been recommended that dogs should have hair-free ears and ear plucking has been a regular part of dog grooming.
New evidence has revealed that ear plucking in the normal, healthy ear is not necessary. Excessive ear plucking may actually result in micro-trauma and inflammation to the ear canals. This may predispose your dog to an ear infection.
If your vet insists that ear hair be plucked, I recommend that the vet be the one perform the procedure.
Alternatively, ears can be trimmed of excessive long hairs from the ear. This can help reduce the amount of ear wax that gets trapped in the ear, thereby minimizing the ear odor. This is commonly recommended by veterinary dermatologists.
An ear cleansing solution can help reduce the incidence of ear problems. Ask your veterinarian which product would be best for your dog.
In her presentation to Tucson groomers, “Ears: What Every Groomer Needs to Know”, Dr. Heide Newton, DVM, DACVD plainly stated that groomers should stop plucking ear hair from inside dog’s ears. “Healthy ears are self-cleaning”, stated Dr. Newton. She encouraged groomers to continue the practice of ear cleaning, however, using products formulated for ear care, and massaging the base of the ear to allow the product to loosen wax and debris from deep in the ear canal.
Another clear statement from Dr. Newton was that “Bathing with clean water will NOT cause ear infections.” Contaminated water may introduce microbes that lead to ear infections, but clean water is not a problem.
The possibility of cross-contamination from an infected ear to the other ear or another animal is the one area where groomers might be at fault. It is very possible for pseudomonas bacteria to transfer from the ear to various surfaces and then be picked up by other animals or even humans. The most obvious sign of a pseudomonas infection is what vets call a “purulent exudates.” Translation: yucky discharge. If the groomer suspects an ear infection, Dr. Newton suggested the following protocol:
1. Clean the GOOD ear first.
2. If the ear with the suspected infection is cleaned, be gentle and use a non-stinging ear cleaner. The groomer may also choose to not clean an ear with a suspected infection, especially if it looks serious.
3. Disinfect everything that the dog has contact with or might spray with shaking of the ears. This includes, your hands, the tub, the faucets, any tools, the table, the kennel and bedding, and the tip or spout of the ear cleaner bottle.
In addition to ear discharge, other signs of ear abnormality are redness, itchiness, odor, swollen tissue of outer ear, hair loss on earflap, and scabs or scaliness. Ear problems are often quite complex and difficult to nail down and treat. A referral to the veterinary dermatologist can result in a quicker and more accurate diagnosis and more effective treatment, thus lessening the time the pet has to suffer with uncomfortable, often painful conditions. By encouraging pet parents to seek treatment for suspected ear problems, the professional groomer is serving the needs of the pet.
Veterinary dermatologists such as Dr. Newton, undergo several years additional training and examinations beyond that required of general practitioners. Dr. Newton is part of Dermatology for Animals, a network of veterinary dermatologists serving the Southwest United States. In addition to working full-time in the Tucson practice, she currently serves on the American College of Veterinary Dermatology (ACVD) Exam Committee (the certifying board) and is a lecturer for the North American Veterinary Dermatology Forum (NAVDF) Resident Education Forum.
Some pets are prone to ear problems and may need a regular ear cleansing between veterinary visits.
I suggest using an ear cleansing solution every time your pet gets wet, as this helps dry out any moisture in the ear canal. I follow the instructions in the video immediately after each and every bath or swim.
Ear cleansing can help remove dirt and wax that builds up as a normal part of epithelial migration (“self-cleaning”). It can also reduce the buildup of bacteria or yeast that may contribute to inflammation or infection.
This is easy to do at home, see the video below demonstrating the correct ear cleaning procedure.
In my salon we always do this to prevent issues with your pets right after the final rinse in the tub ( only in healthy ears).
Clients are encouraged to bring their own veterinarian recommended ear cleanser.
Because ear cleansers may contain chemicals that are harsh on the delicate ear canals, it is important to use only products as recommended by your veterinarian.
I personally avoid homemade preparations and products containing propylene glycol. If for any reason, your pet becomes agitated or the ear cleaning procedure is excessively painful for your pet, stop and seek veterinary advice.
Signs of ear trouble
•Strong or foul odour
•Redness or leathery ear flaps
•Scratching or rubbing at ears or side of head.
•Ear discharge & excessive debris
•Shaking or tilting of the head
•Not wanting the head or ears to be touched
•Irritability
In my salon, if I see any of these signs, I do not touch inside the ears at all.
This is a controversial topic that continues to make the rounds in the grooming and veterinary world. Some professionals think that ear plucking should be a part of a dog’s grooming regimen while others think it’s not.
According to veterinary dermatologists, plucking hair from a dog’s ear can do more harm than good. The procedure can cause microscopic tears in the tissues of the ear canal which can cause bacteria to invade and cause infection.
If recurrent ear infections are not a problem for your dog, there is no reason to pluck the hair from his ears regularly.
Most dermatologists who say that the dog needs plucking due to ear issues, also say that they must do it under anesthesia because it’s too painful to pluck an infected ear.
Just make sure the hair is well-trimmed, so the ear opening is not blocked and air flows freely. Keeping your pet’s ear hairs short can also prevent ear wax and debris from getting trapped.
If you have concerns about the pets ears, make an appointment with your veterinarian. For chronic issues, seek a referral to a veterinary Dermatologist.
Should the groomer express your dogs anal glands?
Does the dog groomer express glands? When groomers express anal glands, it is usually done externally, as it’s illegal for groomers to cross the barrier entering the dogs rectum. When the veterinarian expresses the anal glands, they do it internally. The videos linked below will give you a better understanding of the function of the anal glands, and the groomers role. You will see by watching all 3, that even in the veterinary community there are slight differences in opinion.
As a general rule, we at Grande Style Dog Grooming do not routinely express anal glands because that can actually cause more problems for the dog. We recommend only emptying anal glands when they actually need it, not as a preventative measure.
Beware of companies who offer monthly memberships and offer this service during grooming, as these services often employ entry level workers who perform the anal gland expression. This is best performed by a veterinarian.
Does the dog groomer express glands? When groomers express anal glands, it is usually done externally, as it’s illegal for groomers to cross the barrier entering the dogs rectum. When the veterinarian expresses the anal glands, they do it internally. The videos linked below will give you a better understanding of the function of the anal glands, and the groomers role. You will see by watching all 3, that even in the veterinary community there are slight differences in opinion.
As a general rule, we at Grande Style Dog Grooming do not routinely express anal glands because that can actually cause more problems for the dog. We recommend only emptying anal glands when they actually need it, not as a preventative measure.
Beware of companies who offer monthly memberships and offer this service during grooming, as these services often employ entry level workers who perform the anal gland expression. This is best performed by a veterinarian.
External expression involves applying pressure to the outside of the anal area with a cloth, but this method is less effective and carries a higher risk of rupture. Internal expression involves a veterinarian inserting a gloved finger into the anus to manually squeeze the sacs from the inside, providing a more complete and effective emptying.
External Anal Gland Expression
How it's done: A soft cloth or napkin is placed over the anus, and gentle pressure is applied to squeeze the anal glands from the outside.
Pros:
Can be performed by some pet owners or groomers.
Cons:
Often results in an incomplete emptying of the sacs.
Higher risk of anal gland rupture or other injury.
Does not allow for a thorough assessment of the glands.
Internal Anal Gland Expression
How it's done:
The person performing the expression wears a glove and inserts their lubricated index finger into the pet's anus to locate and squeeze each sac between their finger and thumb.
Pros:
More effective at completely emptying the glands, especially when secretions are thick or impacted.
Allows a veterinary professional to assess the gland for thickening or abnormal growths.
Cons:
Requires medical expertise to perform correctly and safely.
Can be an uncomfortable procedure, requiring distraction or sedation from a vet.
When to See a Vet:
If your pet is scooting, licking their bottom excessively, or has a strong odor, it's essential to have a veterinarian assess them. They can determine if the anal glands need expression and perform it safely and effectively. Self-expression is not recommended, as it can cause injury or worsen existing problems.
Allergies are a common cause of anal gland issues in dogs because inflammation from allergies can cause the anal glands to become swollen, impacted, and infected. Allergies can lead to increased licking of the anal area, which can introduce bacteria, and may result in digestive issues like diarrhea or loose stools that prevent the glands from emptying properly. Treating the underlying allergies with diet or medication can often resolve the anal gland problems. es, allergies are a common cause of anal gland issues in dogs because inflammation from allergies can cause the anal glands to become swollen, impacted, and infected. Allergies can lead to increased licking of the anal area, which can introduce bacteria, and may result in digestive issues like diarrhea or loose stools that prevent the glands from emptying properly. Treating the underlying allergies with diet or medication can often resolve the anal gland problems.
How Allergies Lead to Anal Gland Problems
- Inflammation:Allergies cause chronic inflammation throughout the body, including the skin and the delicate lining of the anal glands, leading to swelling and irritation.
- Increased Licking:Dogs with allergies often lick or chew their skin, including the anal region, which can introduce bacteria and worsen irritation.
- Digestive Issues:Allergies, especially food allergies, can lead to loose stools or diarrhea, which hinders the normal emptying process of the anal glands during defecation.
- Hot Spots:Allergies can also cause skin inflammation or hot spots, and because the anal glands are part of the skin apparatus, these issues can contribute to anal gland problems.
Signs of Anal Gland Problems
- Scooting or dragging their bottom on the floor
- Excessive licking or chewing at the rear end
- Foul odor
- Pain, discomfort, or swelling in the anal area
What to Do
- Consult with your veterinarian: A veterinarian can properly diagnose the cause of the anal gland issues and rule out other potential underlying health conditions.
- Allergy treatment: Your vet may suggest diet trials with novel proteins or hypoallergenic foods to address food allergies.
- Medications: Allergy medications or supplements can help manage environmental allergies and reduce skin inflammation.
- Dietary changes:Your vet might recommend a higher fiber diet to help firm up stools.
5. Probiotics: Supplements containing probiotics and prebiotics can support gut health and improve stool consistency, which is beneficial for anal gland function.
Did you know that some Countries prohibit anal gland expression of any kind, except under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian! In the United Kingdom, it is illegal for groomers to express a dog's anal glands, as it is considered an act of veterinary surgery. The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) states that deciding if a gland requires expression or if it is infected involves a diagnosis, which must be performed by a qualified vet or a veterinary nurse under a vet's supervision. Other countries, such as Canada, also have regulations that discourage or prevent groomers from performing this procedure.
Laws in the United Kingdom
• The Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 dictates that certain procedures, including anal gland expression, can only be performed by veterinary professionals.
- The British Dog Groomers' Association (BDGA) advises its members not to offer this service and to refer it to a vet.
- Violation of this act can result in legal action against a groomer for practicing veterinary medicine without a license.
Guidelines in Canada
Guidelines in Canada
- The legality of groomers expressing anal glands is determined at the provincial level.
- Some Canadian provinces have regulations from veterinary organizations that mandate the procedure be performed only by vets.
- The Professional Pet Groomers Association of Manitoba provides resources to help groomers understand and follow their provincial regulations.
Risks of groomers performing the procedure
Groomers are typically only trained to perform an external expression, which carries several risks:
- Incomplete emptying: The external method often fails to completely empty the glands, leading to repeated issues and potential infection.
- Rupture and infection: The delicate glands can be ruptured by improper technique, leading to severe pain and infection.
- Scar tissue: Repeated external expression can cause trauma and scar tissue formation, making future natural expression difficult and creating a dependency on manual intervention.
- Missing a diagnosis: Because groomers cannot assess the glands internally or diagnose issues, they may miss signs of infection, impaction, or tumors, which require veterinary attention.
- https://youtu.be/TiZQ_-6gWwM?si=nkaExgQq9Yrtim0Q
Prevention of Anal Gland issues
- Request veterinary-only services: It's best to have anal glands expressed by a veterinarian.
- Be cautious with groomer services:Insist that groomers leave the anal glands alone unless your vet has confirmed they need to be expressed.
- Monitor for signs of problems: Keep an eye on your dog for symptoms like scooting, which may indicate an issue that needs veterinary attention.